Can I Get My Driver's License on the Same Day of Application?
3 Answers
If you pass the Subject 4 test, you can receive your driver's license on the same day. Theoretically, the entire process takes 8-9 months to obtain a driver's license. Documents required to receive a driver's license: Identification: This can be your original ID card and a copy, or your ID card along with a temporary residence permit. Eight color photos with a white background: Prepare recent one-inch photos of yourself. Medical examination certificate: Get a medical check-up in advance at a regular hospital or a hospital designated by the vehicle management office, and prepare the relevant materials. Motor vehicle application form: This form is available at the vehicle management office and needs to be filled out by the applicant. The process of learning to drive can be summarized as follows: Choose a driving school; register for the exam; undergo a medical examination; take the Subject 1 theory test; take the Subject 2 field driving skills test; take the Subject 3 road driving skills test; take the Subject 4 safety and civilized driving knowledge test. The order and steps to obtain a driver's license: First, register, then undergo a medical examination, and start preparing for the Subject 1 theory test, which requires a passing score of 90; after passing, proceed to Subject 2, where you need to practice with the instructor you registered with and then sign up for the exam; after Subject 2 comes Subject 3, which covers more content; then comes the Subject 4 theory test, which also requires a passing score of 90.
Last time I went to renew my driver's license myself, thinking it could be done the same day. Ended up waiting in line at the DMV for hours—medical check, form filling, written test, passed it all in one go with the examiner praising my speed. But after the results were entered into the system, I was told to wait two or three days for backend approval. The card customization took even longer, as it had to be printed with anti-counterfeit information by a specialized manufacturer and mailed back. In my small town, I even had to pick it up in person. Driving without a license risks fines and vehicle impoundment—now that's real trouble. Later, a friend advised that to speed things up, I should book the test online in advance, bring all required IDs and photos, and opt for home delivery service to save time. But honestly, in most parts of the country, getting the physical license the same day is tough, and temporary licenses aren't common either. So it's best to plan one or two weeks ahead, not leaving it until you need to drive. After all, road safety comes first—better safe than sorry.
As an ordinary car owner, I'd like to share some insights about driver's license processing time. Generally speaking, getting the license on the same day is almost impossible due to the complicated procedures. First, you need to make an online appointment or queue on-site to submit your application, including payment and medical examination proof. After passing the written test (Subject 1), the system automatically verifies the results to prevent cheating, while staff members review identity documents such as age and health records - this backend processing alone takes one or two days. The card production phase is even slower, as the cards need to be customized and distributed to various service centers. Some first-tier cities offer expedited options or temporary permits, but these aren't available everywhere. Based on my years of driving experience, the safest approach is to allocate about a week's time - this ensures no stress and guarantees legal road access. Also, never skip the medical examination to save money. After submitting complete documents to the traffic police department, simply follow the instructions to check progress updates on the APP, and everything will go much smoother.
