Can I drive on the highway without my driver's license?
2 Answers
According to traffic laws, forgetting to bring your driver's license is not considered driving without a license. However, if caught by traffic police during an on-site enforcement, you will not be allowed to continue driving the vehicle. The traffic police will also temporarily impound the vehicle until the driver provides their driver's license. The situation will then be handled based on the specific driving circumstances before the impoundment. Below is relevant information about driving on the highway without a driver's license: 1. Handling of not carrying a driver's license: According to Articles 90 and 95 of the Road Traffic Safety Law, the following measures apply to not carrying a driver's license: Regardless of whether the driver has violated any traffic laws while driving, they are not permitted to continue driving the vehicle. The traffic management department of the public security authority must impound the motor vehicle and notify the driver to provide their driver's license. 2. Handling when the driver provides their driver's license: (1) If the driver provides their driver's license and there are no other violations while driving, they will be given a warning or fined between 20 and 200 yuan, and the vehicle will be promptly returned; (2) If the driver provides their driver's license but has committed other violations while driving, they will be penalized based on the nature of the violation and for not carrying the driver's license, and the vehicle will be promptly returned; (3) If the driver fails to provide their driver's license, they will be penalized for driving without a license.
As a veteran driver who frequently takes long-distance trips, I believe it's absolutely essential to carry your driver's license when driving on highways. Traffic regulations clearly state that operating any vehicle, including on highways, requires presenting a valid driver's license—failure to do so constitutes a violation. During my highway drives, I often encounter traffic police checkpoints at entry points or service areas for random inspections; if you reach into your pocket and find no license, you'll be immediately pulled over, potentially facing point deductions, fines, and even delays to your trip. Some cities now promote electronic driver's license apps, such as "Traffic Management 12123," which can occasionally serve as a temporary substitute when logged in. However, electronic versions sometimes suffer from poor signal reception or lack of recognition, so carrying the physical original is still the safest bet. Make it a habit to check and securely place your documents before driving to avoid mid-highway mishaps—both unsafe and time-wasting. With high speeds on highways, lacking a license in case of an accident could mean insurance won't cover the damages, leading to significant losses.
