Can I drive without carrying my driver's license?
2 Answers
You cannot drive without carrying your driver's license. Forgetting to bring your driver's license will also result in penalties. While you won't be detained for forgetting your license, if your vehicle is temporarily impounded, it will only be returned after you present your driver's license. However, you will face a fine and have one point deducted from your license. Additionally, driving without a license while violating traffic rules will also be penalized. According to Chinese law: If a motor vehicle driven on the road does not display a license plate, inspection sticker, insurance sticker, or if the driver does not carry the vehicle registration certificate or driver's license, the traffic management department of the public security organ shall impound the vehicle and require the driver to provide the corresponding documents, stickers, or complete the necessary procedures.
Driving without a license is absolutely unacceptable. Once I forgot mine and got pulled over by the police, resulting in a 200-yuan fine and penalty points. That lesson taught me that carrying your license is mandatory by law, otherwise it's illegal driving which may lead to fines or even towing. In emergencies, a phone photo might work temporarily but isn't reliable—don't take the risk. Make it a habit to check your wallet for your license before leaving home. Safe driving starts with details; avoid major inconveniences caused by small oversights.