Went to police this morning, and picked up my new driving license, C1D entitlement (all cars and 3 and 2 wheeled motorcycles). Was surprised to find that the issuing of the license was actually for free, so all my expenditure was for the eye test, photos, travel, multiple choice test and the bulk of the cost was for the translation of the license. The license is valid for six years.

Time thus far spent (including travel) - 8 hours
Time thus far (not including travel) - 3 hours
Money spent - 374.6 RMB
Weeks/months spent getting license - 35 days

Final thoughts

While the process was covered in red tape and heavily bureaucratic, it was worth my time to get my license knowing that if the worst happens I'll be as covered as I can be, and I encourage anyone else who has a visa that entitles them to residency to do the same. Although being legally covered in no way will prevent me from being blamed if the worst happens. As it looks like I'm going to be living in China or at least visiting regularly and the laws are only going to become more stringent over time, and also knowing the potentially harsh punishments for being naughty, it was a good idea to finally get the license.

I still think the system is a farce in regards to foreigners who are not on residency visas. There needs to be some way of translating an IDP with motorcycle and car licenses into some kind of Chinese temporary driving license. Hopefully this is coming soon.