Can Didi operate without dual certificates?
2 Answers
Didi cannot operate without dual certificates. For online ride-hailing taxis without operational qualifications, they are considered illegally operated vehicles. Since November 1, 2016, to operate online ride-hailing services, the vehicle must obtain the "Online Ride-hailing Taxi Transport Certificate," and the driver must obtain the "Online Ride-hailing Taxi Driver Certificate," collectively referred to as "dual certificates." Operating without these certificates will result in substantial fines. Conditions for applying for dual certificates: Men under 60 years old, women under 55 years old; junior high school education or above; holding a corresponding motor vehicle driver's license for more than 3 years; no records of traffic crime, dangerous driving, drunk driving, or drug driving; no record of accumulating 12 points in the last 3 scoring cycles; no major or above traffic accidents with equal or greater responsibility in the last 3 years. Application address: Local vehicle management office or transportation bureau. Application materials: Completed "Online Ride-hailing Transport Certificate Application Form"; original and photocopies of household register or residence permit, ID card, and motor vehicle driver's license; physical examination report issued by a Grade 2A or above hospital within the last year; proof of no traffic crime, dangerous driving, drunk driving, or drug driving records, and no record of accumulating 12 points in the last 3 scoring cycles; proof of junior high school education or above.
I've been driving for Didi for many years, and based on personal experience, you absolutely cannot drive without the dual certificates. You must have a valid driver's license and a ride-hailing qualification certificate. Didi strictly reviews photos and information during registration, and if you don’t pass, you can’t register. Even if you rely on acquaintances to upload fake documents and start taking orders, the risk is extremely high. Traffic police often conduct random checks on the road, and if you’re caught without the certificates, the fine starts at 2,000 RMB, and your car will be impounded for a week. The platform will also permanently ban your account if discovered. Someone I know tried to save time by skipping the certification process and ended up losing half a month’s income. Policies are getting stricter now, so I advise newcomers to honestly apply for the qualification certificate at the vehicle management office or through online platforms. It may take some time and money, but the business will be more stable, and you can even enjoy platform rewards. In the long run, it’s much safer and more reliable—never try to cut corners.
