Chinese citizens require multiple certificates

A Chinese resident may possess more than 70 certificates in his or her life, among which, at least 30 are absolutely necessary, according to China Central Television.

Reporters provided a list of the certificates a resident should have on Monday.

Listed are at least 15 certificates to prove each resident's identity, including an identity card, household registration booklet and passport.

Chinese should also register about 12 certificates that related to marriage and family, such as a single child privilege card, and at least eight for their study and work, the report said.

In addition to driving and business licenses, which are well-known to the public, Chinese residents who marry foreigners have to apply for a foreign-related marriage certificate, while people who come back to the country after studying abroad should also have a return certificate, the report added.