Beijing drivers with a C class license below 60 years of age, may soon be exempt from biennial examination.

The Beijing Public Security Bureau of Traffic Administration said drivers with reasonably clean records may be exempt from the examinations.

Examination will still be held before licenses can be renewed, sources said.

New motor vehicle and license management legislation took effect in the Beijing on Tuesday.

B class driving license holders who don't drive trucks or buses can also benefit from the regulation if they are ready to degrade their driving license level.

The regulation also simplifies the application procedures for overseas people in Beijing.

Foreigners working or living in the capital city can apply for driving licenses by presenting their residence permit and passport, according to the regulation.

Residents from Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions as well as from Taiwan can submit their mainland re-entry permit, omitting the work permit, a must for them in the past.

When passing the driving test, overseas people in Beijing will be given a license that is valid for a six-year period.

(China Daily June 12, 2004)