Can an Electronic Driver's License Handle Traffic Violations?
3 Answers
An electronic driver's license can handle traffic violations, but since it is not yet widely adopted, it is only applicable in specific cities. Detailed Introduction: If you are stopped while driving without a physical driver's license, you can present your electronic driver's license to pass if it is valid in that locality. If electronic driver's licenses are not implemented in that area, the traffic police may temporarily impound your vehicle and release it only after you present your physical driver's license, along with imposing a fine. Handling Method: Open the Traffic Management 12123 app on your phone, click on 'Driver's License' on the homepage; on the 'My Driver's License' interface, click on 'Electronic Version of Driver's License,' and then show your electronic driver's license to the handling officer to process the violation.
I've thought about this issue several times. Last year, I got a traffic ticket and handled it using the electronic driver's license on the 12123 traffic management app, which was quite convenient. But it depends on the specific type: if you're dealing with a simple violation that doesn't involve points deduction on 12123, you can just scan the QR code with your electronic license to confirm; however, for violations that require in-person processing at a counter, such as those involving points deduction or accident handling, it's better to bring your physical driver's license because I've heard some local systems aren't fully integrated yet. By the way, out-of-town violations are also more likely to require a paper version. I suggest everyone keep a copy of their physical driver's license in the car as a double insurance. Usually, try to handle violations using the 12123 app on your phone, and electronic licenses can handle most cases.
Last time I drove out of town and got a speeding ticket, I handled it with my electronic driver's license. Using the electronic driver's license on the Traffic Management 12123 app is fine for processing regular electronic monitoring violations—just sign and confirm online to get it done. However, if you're dealing with on-the-spot law enforcement where points are deducted, or if you need to sign at the traffic police station, many cities still require a physical driver's license. Also, a reminder to everyone: when handling out-of-town violations, pay special attention to local policies. For example, some counties in Hebei only accept paper documents. I usually keep a copy of my physical driver's license in the glove compartment for emergencies. After all, having an electronic driver's license doesn’t mean you can completely ditch the physical one.
