Can I renew my driver's license on the day it expires?
2 Answers
You can renew your driver's license on the day it expires. If the driver's license exceeds the validity period by more than one year without renewal, the license will be canceled. After cancellation, you need to pass the subject one exam to restore your driving qualification. Required materials for driver's license renewal: The driver's ID card, driver's license, three one-inch white background photos, and a medical certificate issued by a county-level or military regimental-level medical institution. Driver's license renewal process: Prepare the relevant renewal materials and go to the vehicle management office. Upon arrival, obtain and fill out the "Motor Vehicle Driver's License Application Form," which requires a photo. The driver must submit the original driver's license, medical certificate, application form, and personal photo to the vehicle management office where the license was issued. The office will process the renewal within one working day after approval. Notes for driver's license renewal: Renewal can only be done in advance; it cannot be postponed without a valid reason (if postponed, you must explain the reason to the traffic management department in advance). According to regulations, renewal can be done up to three months in advance. If the license is about to expire, you should renew it as soon as possible. If postponed, a fine will be imposed.
I think it's legal and acceptable to renew your driver's license on the expiration day itself, but in practice, it depends on timing and luck. For example, on weekdays when there are long queues, you might end up waiting most of the day, and if time runs out, your license could expire. If you drive after it expires and get pulled over by the police, you could face fines or penalty points. Personally, I once went on a Friday, the expiration day, and coincidentally hit peak hours—I waited in line for two hours, didn’t finish by noon, and had to take the bus home, completing it the next day. It was a hassle. My advice is to renew it two days early to be safe and save yourself the stress. Also, remember to bring your ID, photos, and medical report when renewing. Booking an appointment via a mobile app in advance can speed things up. Whatever you do, don’t leave it until the last day—it could disrupt your daily plans, and if something goes wrong, it’s just not worth it. Safe driving comes first, so handling things ahead of time is always better.