Primarily, the most important things that are usually wanted/needed is the PSB registration to prove residence. A valid passport with visa, yes a Z (employment/ temporary residence visa) though the PSB officialdom aren't usually so interested where you are working so long as you can tick the other boxes: they just need to sight the visa, record the number etc. A valid D/L with translation from an approved provider, or else a completed driving school course (which the school would organise the testing etc). You'll have to complete other requirements e.g. some passport sized photos, though they usually provide those at a cost in a place nearby, basic medical examination, etc.

So the suggestion to go to some other jurisdiction temporarily where DL for foreigners particularly with M/C endorsement, can be acquired is valid and others have done this. For example, fly to SH for a week or two, do a deal with local landlord, to get a rental contract even if it's BS... then get yourself the D/L. There are ways to deal with this without having to spend 10K. Once you have the license in the other jurisdiction, you are good to go. Valid in the whole of PRC and some international countries too.