Can a 10-year driver's license be exchanged for a lifetime driver's license?

[StFrancisco]

It is possible to exchange a 10-year driver's license for a lifetime driver's license, but certain conditions must be met. The specific conditions and annual review requirements are as follows: To qualify for a lifetime driver's license, the following conditions must be satisfied: After obtaining the driver's license for the first time, its validity period is 6 years. If the driver has not accumulated 12 penalty points in any of the 6 consecutive scoring cycles, upon renewal at the expiration of the 6-year period, the new license will have a 10-year validity period. After obtaining the 10-year driver's license, if the driver has not accumulated 12 penalty points in any of the 10 consecutive scoring cycles, upon renewal at the expiration of the 10-year period, the new license will become a lifetime driver's license. Annual Review of Driver's License: During the 6-year validity period of the driver's license, no annual review is required. Drivers should apply for renewal at the local traffic police station within 90 days before the expiration date. Drivers holding Class A, B, N, or P licenses, although exempt from annual reviews during the validity period, must visit the Vehicle Management Section of their local traffic police station within 15 days of the original annual review deadline to obtain and fill out the "Motor Vehicle Driver's License Application Form," attach a photo, undergo a medical examination at a designated hospital, and then submit the form back to the Vehicle Management Section for computer confirmation. Drivers aged 60 or above, regardless of the type of license they hold, must visit the Vehicle Management Section of their local traffic police station during the original annual review period each year to obtain the "Motor Vehicle Driver's License Application Form," undergo a medical examination at a designated hospital, and then submit the form back to the Vehicle Management Section for computer confirmation.

[DiVivian]

I've been driving for over a decade. I remember my first driver's license had a five-year validity period. Since I never had any accidents, when I went to the DMV to renew it after ten years, they told me that if I had never accumulated 12 penalty points, I could apply for a permanent lifetime license. This required submitting a medical report, especially an eye exam for those over 50. I advise new drivers to practice safe driving from the start—no speeding or drunk driving—so that after ten years, they can avoid a lot of hassle and directly apply for a lifetime license. It's much more convenient than having to repeatedly visit the DMV and wait in line. I've also heard that some elderly drivers, even with a lifetime license, may experience declining driving abilities, so regular medical check-ups are crucial to ensure road safety.

[LeGenevieve]

I'm a novice driver who just got my license two years ago. During my driving lessons at the driving school, the instructor mentioned that after ten years, I could exchange it for a lifetime license. Out of curiosity, I asked some experienced drivers about it. They said as long as I drive carefully, avoid running red lights or getting into accidents, and don't accumulate enough penalty points to lose my license, I can apply for it. Now my goal is to maintain a clean driving record for ten years, so I can get a lifetime license and not worry about renewals. However, I find it quite challenging because urban traffic conditions are complex. If I accidentally violate a traffic rule even once, it could disrupt my plan. So, I always remind myself to follow the rules every time I drive, protecting both myself and others.

[SanPreston]

As a homemaker, I mainly drive to pick up and drop off my kids at school, so practicality is my focus when renewing my driver's license. After ten years, you need to switch to a long-term license, which indeed requires checking your driving record—no demerit points allowed. Last year when I went to renew mine, the staff said they also check blood pressure and vision to ensure physical and mental fitness for a lifetime license. That makes sense, as safety should always come first when driving. I suggest my fellow moms develop good habits early—avoid sudden braking or reckless lane changes—so renewing after ten years becomes much easier. If you have any violations on record, you’ll only qualify for a short-term license, meaning more trips to the DMV, which can be quite a hassle.