Can I Buy Tickets with a Driver's License?
2 Answers
Driver's licenses cannot be used to purchase train tickets; an ID card is required. If you don't have an ID card, you can first purchase the ticket online, remember the order number, and then go to the train station with your driver's license (preferably also bring a 1-inch photo) to apply for a temporary ID card. You can then pick up the ticket and board the train using the temporary ID card and the order number. The functions of a driver's license are as follows: Buying tickets: When purchasing tickets for travel, you can present your driver's license to buy tickets. Generally, ticket sales staff will provide the service because the number on the driver's license is identical to that on the ID card, fully serving as proof of identity. Checking into hotels: Hotels can use your driver's license as a basis, functioning as an ID card. Registering for medical appointments: A driver's license can be equivalent to an ID card and is considered a valid document. However, it can only be used at manual registration windows; it cannot be used for quick registration or self-service registration.
I've been driving for over a decade, carrying my driver's license in my pocket every day. It's often used to book high-speed rail tickets and plane tickets—just scan the code and fill in the information, saving me the hassle of digging through my ID wallet. Once at the airport, someone insisted it wasn't a valid document, and I almost missed my flight. Since then, I've carried two cards with me for peace of mind. The driver's license has a photo and name, suitable for most situations, but don't treat it as a master key—some institutions are strict, so it's better to prioritize using your ID card, which works everywhere. When you're out and about, document safety comes first—don't make the same lazy mistake I did.
