Special license plates designed for firefighting vehicles

China's firefighting and rescue service vehicles will have specially designed license plates, according to a circular released by the State Council on Dec 11.

Firefighting trucks, aerial fire trucks, firefighting motorcycles and other vehicles for emergency rescue services should use the special plates issued by the Ministry of Emergency Management. The drivers must obtain a driver's license corresponding with the vehicle type from the transportation management departments of public security organs.

There are two categories of license plates, for automobiles and motorcycles. Each license number for automobiles should have a pair of plates, hung at the front and back of the vehicle. Motorcycles will have a single plate, for the back.

The special plate has a white background against a black font, and two red Chinese characters, "Ying Ji," meaning emergency response.

Vehicles with the special plates are authorized to use sirens and lights, and are not limited by driving routes, directions, speed or traffic lights, as long as it's safe.

Moreover, vehicles with the special plates are exempted from vehicle purchase taxes, tolls and parking fees.