Can I stop carrying my driver's license if I have an electronic one?

[Ophelia]

It's still best to carry it. Electronic driver's licenses are usually accepted locally, but may not be recognized in other areas, as electronic licenses are still in the pilot phase. The function of electronic driver's license: The electronic driver's license serves to assist drivers during inspections when they haven't carried their physical license, allowing them to undergo road checks by relevant personnel. The introduction of electronic driver's licenses has undoubtedly made it more convenient for drivers when traveling. Usage scope of electronic driver's license: Road inspections, violation processing, and counter services. Electronic driver's licenses cannot be used in other circumstances. During roadside checks by traffic police, if a driver forgets to carry their physical driver's license or vehicle registration, they are permitted to present their electronic version.

[VanCecilia]

As a long-distance driver, I have some say about electronic driver's licenses. Last year, I started using an electronic driving license, and at first, I thought it was incredibly convenient—no more worrying about losing the physical copy. But once, while traveling in the mountains, my phone had poor signal, and the electronic app wouldn't load when the police checked it, nearly causing trouble. Luckily, I habitually kept my physical license tucked in my wallet, which saved me from a fine. Nowadays, I still think the electronic version is quite advanced, especially since most big cities recognize it. However, when traveling to remote areas or in emergencies, the physical version is still the safer bet. My experience tells me that an electronic driver's license can only serve as a backup—the main one to carry is still the physical one, because safety comes first.

[DelJuliette]

As a tech enthusiast, I'm obsessed with the electronic driver's license. Displaying it through the official app eliminates the hassle of searching for a physical card—it's eco-friendly and efficient. But users quickly realize its dependence on phone battery and internet connectivity. Running out of power or app crashes can be embarrassing. Once during a minor highway accident, the app lagged, making the other party suspect I was driving unlicensed. While laws are promoting digitalization (e.g., Shenzhen fully accepts it), transitional mismatches between old and new systems mean officers may prefer physical licenses. My advice: enjoy digital convenience but carry the physical card as backup—don’t risk unnecessary trouble.

[StPaislee]

As a cautious veteran driver with 30 years of experience, I prioritize compliance with regulations. While electronic driver's licenses have been legalized, law enforcement varies across regions, especially in rural areas or old urban districts where traffic police may not be able to scan QR codes. I once got checked in the suburbs where although the electronic version was displayed, the officer insisted on seeing the physical copy due to outdated equipment. This reminded me that technology isn't foolproof, and hiccups can occur during transitional periods. Therefore, I believe it's prudent to habitually keep a physical driver's license in the car or wallet to avoid unnecessary complications. After all, road safety is paramount—having an extra precaution reduces risks, and that's never wrong.