Can a driver still drive within 3 months of losing their driver's license?
3 Answers
A driver is not allowed to drive a motor vehicle within 3 months of losing their driver's license. According to Article 28 of the Implementation Regulations of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China, the owner of a motor vehicle is not permitted to drive a motor vehicle during the period when their driver's license is lost, damaged, expired, legally confiscated, or temporarily confiscated. Conditions for driver's license replacement: When a motor vehicle driver's license is lost, the motor vehicle driver must apply for a replacement at the vehicle management office where the driver's license was originally issued. During the period when the driver's license is lost, driving a motor vehicle is not allowed. Required materials for driver's license replacement: Application form for motor vehicle driver's license; original and photocopy of the applicant's valid identity document; written statement of loss of the motor vehicle driver's license; three recent front-facing color photos with white background and no hat (photo size: 32mm×22mm, head width 14mm—16mm, head length 19mm—22mm) and photo receipt.
I've been driving for over 30 years and have seen many friends lose their driver's licenses. To be honest, once it's lost, you absolutely cannot drive anymore, especially not within 3 months! The law clearly states that driving without a license is considered unlicensed driving. If caught, you could face fines ranging from hundreds to thousands of yuan, typically 12 points deducted, and possibly even have your vehicle impounded or face detention. Once, a buddy of mine didn't believe it and drove to work secretly after losing his license. He got caught, fined over two thousand yuan, and it messed up his work. Hurry to the traffic management department to get a replacement. Bring your ID card and photos, fill out a form, and you can get a new license in a few days. Never risk driving for urgent matters—if an accident happens, insurance won't cover it, and you'll be fully liable. This is about safety. Wait until you have your new license before hitting the road—that's the safe way.
I just got my driver's license recently, so I'm very clear about the rules. Want to drive within three months of losing your license? No way! Legally, this counts as unlicensed driving—don't even think about taking chances. Check the traffic laws and you'll see that you must carry your license when driving. If it's lost, you need to get it reissued immediately—any driving in between is illegal. The consequences are troublesome: if stopped by the police, the fine starts at 2,000 RMB, insurance claims will be void, not to mention you'll be fully liable in case of an accident. The reissuance process is actually simple: make an appointment online or go directly to the DMV, prepare the required materials, and get it done. The best way to save money and time is not to drive—take public transport or ride-hailing services as a temporary solution.
