Can a Driver's License Still Be Used After Being Washed in a Washing Machine?
2 Answers
If a driver's license can still be identified after being washed, it can be used normally; if the identification is affected, the holder should apply for a replacement at the vehicle management office where it was issued. If the driver's license is unreadable, the holder can take their ID card and the damaged license to the vehicle management office for a replacement. Driver's licenses can be replaced online. When a driver's license is damaged, the holder needs to undergo a driver's license medical examination at a hospital at or above the county level to obtain a medical examination certificate. Then, they can apply for a replacement through the Traffic Management 12123 APP or website. EMS will collect the medical examination certificate, and once the replacement is processed successfully, the new license will be mailed to the holder. The entire process is very convenient. If the holder is not familiar with the process, they can call the local vehicle management office for guidance before proceeding. Ordinary driver's licenses can be replaced online, but some special industry licenses cannot be replaced online. For such cases, the holder should consult the vehicle management office. Whether replacing the license online or in person, the required documents are the same. The online replacement option is designed to make the process easier for drivers, eliminating the need to queue in person and providing a better experience. The full name of a driver's license is the Motor Vehicle Driver's License, which is a legal document required for individuals to operate motor vehicles. Generally, individuals cannot drive on the road without a license. However, for those who have mastered safe driving skills, the document that permits them to drive on the road is the driver's license.
Once I accidentally left my driver's license in my pocket and washed it. When I took it out, it was completely soaked, with water trapped inside the plastic cover. I quickly spread it out to dry and found that the photo was a bit blurry, but the basic information was still legible. I specifically went to the traffic police station to ask, and they said it could still be used as long as the information was intact and undamaged. However, they recommended checking if the magnetic strip was still functional, as some places require swiping for identification. If it couldn't be swiped, I would need to get a replacement. Nowadays, replacing a driver's license is convenient—just apply through a mobile app, and it can be mailed to your home in a few days. Now I always keep a plastic bag in my car and make sure not to carelessly stuff important documents anymore.
