Can a driver's license be used to apply for a mobile phone card?
2 Answers
Driver's license cannot be used to apply for a mobile phone card. The functions of a driver's license are as follows: 1. Purchasing tickets: When buying tickets for travel, you can present your driver's license to purchase tickets. Generally, ticket sales staff will provide the service because the number on the driver's license is exactly the same as that on the ID card, so it can fully serve as proof of identity. 2. Checking into hotels: Hotels can photocopy your driver's license as a basis, serving the same function as an ID card. 3. Medical registration: A driver's license can be equivalent to an ID card and is considered a valid document. However, it can only be used for registration at manual counters; it cannot be used for quick registration or self-service registration.
I was also curious a while ago about whether a driver's license could be used to apply for a mobile phone card, so I specifically went to a service center to try. The staff directly said no, and that formal identification documents like an ID card or passport are required. A driver's license is primarily a document to prove driving qualifications, and the information in it is not suitable for the mobile phone real-name authentication system. In China, telecom operators enforce strict real-name registration to combat telecom fraud and illegal activities, ensuring user safety. I had my driver's license with me at the time, but after being refused, I used my ID card and successfully completed the process. The whole procedure was quite simple, so I recommend confirming your documents before applying to avoid a wasted trip. If you only have a driver's license, you can ask the telecom operator about alternative solutions, such as a temporary ID card or similar options.
