Can a driver's license be processed in another province?
2 Answers
Driver's licenses can be processed at the vehicle management office in another location. If the registered residence of a motor vehicle driver is relocated outside the jurisdiction of the original vehicle management office, the driver should apply for a license replacement at the vehicle management office of the new location. Motor vehicle drivers residing outside the jurisdiction of the issuing vehicle management office can apply for a license replacement at the vehicle management office of their residence. The initial validity period of a motor vehicle driver's license is 6 years, with the first year being a probationary period. The second renewal after 6 years is valid for 10 years, and subsequent renewals after 10 years will be long-term. Motor vehicle drivers should apply for a license replacement at the issuing vehicle management office within 90 days before the expiration of their current driver's license.
You can renew your driver's license in another province. I remember when I moved to Shanghai last time, my license was about to expire, and I just went to the local DMV to get a new one. You need to bring your ID card, original driver's license, and a residence permit to prove you live there, otherwise, you might make a wasted trip. The process is quick—I got it done in a day, and it only cost a few dozen yuan. The current policies are quite supportive, allowing procedures like license renewal or replacement to be handled in different locations, which is especially convenient for young workers like me who don’t want the hassle of returning to their hometown. I recommend making an appointment in advance on the Traffic Management 12123 App, checking local requirements, and bringing photos and a medical report to avoid last-minute issues. In short, it’s entirely possible, so don’t worry about the hassle.
