Can I renew my driver's license one year before it expires?
2 Answers
You cannot renew your driver's license one year before it expires. Motor vehicle drivers should apply for license renewal at the vehicle management office of the license issuing authority within 90 days before the expiration of the driver's license. When applying, you need to fill out the "Motor Vehicle Driver's License Application Form". The renewal methods are as follows: The motor vehicle driver should bring the required materials to the vehicle management office of the license issuing authority to apply for renewal. The vehicle management office will process the renewal within one working day after the review is approved. Drivers can renew their licenses through the "Traffic Management 12123" APP. Download the "Traffic Management 12123" APP, select Service Center -- Expiration Renewal Service -- fill in the information. The new license is usually delivered by mail. Go to the "Police-Medical-Post" service point at the post office to apply for renewal. The entire process, from registration and physical examination to the production of the new license, takes only half an hour. Currently, only a few cities have opened this service, such as Hangzhou.
After years of driving, I've learned that driver's license renewal must follow the rules. According to regulations, early renewal is typically processed within 90 days before expiration – doing it too early isn't allowed as the system only permits near-expiration handling. If your license still has a year left, the DMV will likely reject the application as it violates procedures. However, you can prepare in advance: first get a medical examination report from designated hospitals (valid for about six months), take standard 1-inch white-background photos, and download the local DMV app to check for notifications regularly. When three months remain, schedule an online appointment or visit in person with your ID card, old license, and required documents. Safe driving is paramount – never let your license expire as it may lead to penalty points and fines.
