Can I drive in Shanghai without carrying a physical driver's license and use an electronic driver's license instead?
2 Answers
You can drive in Shanghai without carrying a physical driver's license by using an electronic driver's license. Here is relevant information about the electronic driver's license: Convenient Application: Drivers can log in to their personal accounts on the "Traffic Management 12123" APP to apply for it. The electronic driver's license has a unified national format and holds the same legal validity as the physical driver's license. Convenient Presentation: The electronic driver's license is generated through the National Public Security Traffic Management Electronic Certificate System, dynamically displaying the status of the driver's license. It can be used in various scenarios such as law enforcement management and public services, allowing for real-time queries, presentation, and verification. The electronic driver's license employs digital signature anti-counterfeiting technology, ensuring authenticity, uniqueness, security, and reliability.
I hardly ever carry a paper driver's license anymore. Usually, I just show the electronic version on my phone when driving. I've been checked by traffic police in Shanghai a few times, and they let me go as soon as they saw the e-license. However, the e-license must be obtained through official channels, like the one in the Traffic Management 12123 APP, to be valid. Once, a friend tried showing a screenshot saved in their photo album, and the officer said it didn't count. Also, it's advisable to keep your phone's location services on, so the location info syncs when displaying the e-license, making it more reliable. When traveling far, it's best to carry a power bank—running out of battery would be awkward. Many vehicle inspection stations in Shanghai also accept e-licenses now, which is quite convenient.
