Can I still drive if my car has 12 points deducted?
3 Answers
A driver's license with all 12 points deducted cannot be used for driving. First, let's correct a common misconception: vehicles cannot have points deducted; only driver's licenses can. In other words, points are deducted from the license holder, not the vehicle. If a driver's license has all 12 points deducted, it will be revoked, and the driver must retake the driving test. This test is commonly referred to as Subject 1. If a driver accumulates 12 points twice within a scoring cycle (12 months), in addition to taking Subject 1, they must also take Subject 3 (the road test). If a driver continues to drive with all 12 points deducted and is caught by traffic police, the vehicle will be impounded. The traffic management department of the public security authority may impose a fine ranging from 200 to 2,000 yuan and may also detain the driver for up to 15 days. For specific details, refer to Articles 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, and 28 of the 'Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China.'
When I saw this question, the first thing that came to my mind was my neighbor Old Wang's experience. Last year, he was caught speeding 50% over the limit and had all 12 points deducted from his license on the spot, with his driver's license confiscated immediately. His car keys were left hanging on the wall as mere decoration. The traffic police specifically warned him that driving before retaking the theory test would count as driving without a license. Old Wang later told me that for over a month, he had to take taxis to and from work every day, spending nearly 2,000 yuan on transportation. The most troublesome part was attending a seven-day traffic safety school and scheduling the exam, which dragged on for two months in total. So, if you lose all 12 points, you really can't continue driving—otherwise, if caught, it's a 2,000 yuan fine plus 15 days of detention, and your car might even be impounded. But don’t panic too much; once you complete the study and exam process, you can get your license back. Just treat it as a hard lesson learned.
Just checked the detailed rules of the traffic law, driving is absolutely not allowed in this situation. When your driver's license accumulates 12 penalty points, its legal validity automatically terminates, meaning you temporarily lose your driving qualification. I've handled similar consultation cases where the person took a chance and drove out, only to be caught by high-definition traffic cameras. The penalties for unlicensed driving are much more severe than regular violations: besides a minimum fine of 2,000 yuan, you could face administrative detention, and if an accident occurs, criminal liability may follow. The correct approach is to register for a full-point education course at the traffic management department within 15 days of receiving the penalty notice, bringing your ID card. After completing seven days of study, schedule the subject one exam. Only after passing will the points be cleared. For travel during this period, it's advisable to choose public transport or ride-hailing services—don't risk crossing the legal red line.
