Unlicensed online ride-hailing drivers may face 30 thousand-yuan fine

Ride-hailing services Didi Chuxing and Uber [Photo/zol.com.cn]

Drivers of China's online ride-hailing services will be required to hold a legal license by passing exams in November.

Unlicensed drivers who engage in the services will face a fine ranging from 10 thousand yuan ($1,500) to 30 thousand yuan ($4,500).

Those with 3-years of driving experience and no records of traffic accident crimes, dangerous driving, drugs or drink driving will be allowed to take examinations for online-driving services.

The requirements come from one of two newly issued regulations over the taxi and online ride-hailing services by China's transportation authority. The regulations will take effect in October and November respectively.

The regulations also specifically stipulate the taxi services. For example, taxi drivers who take a detour or refuse passengers can also be fined a maximum of 2,000 yuan.