Can someone else handle the driver's license renewal on my behalf?
2 Answers
Driver's license renewal can be handled by someone else. It is not mandatory for the license holder to personally attend the renewal process; family members or friends can be entrusted to handle it on their behalf. There are several ways to renew a driver's license: applying for renewal at the vehicle management office; renewing through the "Traffic Management 12123" APP; or visiting the "Police-Medical-Post" service point at a postal office to process the renewal. To renew via the "Traffic Management 12123" APP, download the app, then sequentially select Service Center -- Expired License Renewal Service -- fill in the required information. The new license is typically delivered by mail. Visiting the "Police-Medical-Post" service point at a postal office allows for the renewal process, which takes only about half an hour from registration to medical examination and new license production. Currently, only a few cities offer this service, such as Hangzhou. Penalties for driving with an expired license: Driving a motor vehicle with an expired license is prohibited and may be treated as driving without a license. If the license has been expired for less than one year, the driver can renew it at any time, but driving during this period will result in a 200 yuan fine. If the license has been expired for more than one year without renewal, the traffic management department will cancel it. For licenses expired for less than three years, the driver must retake and pass the subject one exam to reinstate their driving privileges. Driving during this period may incur a fine ranging from 200 to 2000 yuan. If the license has been expired for over three years, it will be permanently canceled, and the driver must retake all driving tests to obtain a new license. Driving without a valid license may result in a 2000 yuan fine and up to 15 days of administrative detention.
As someone who frequently handles vehicle-related matters, I know that driver's license renewal can be delegated. According to regulations, the agent must bring a power of attorney (specifying authority and validity period), the applicant's original or copy of ID card, the agent's ID card, and the renewal application form to the local DMV for processing. The power of attorney must be personally signed by the applicant; otherwise, it will be rejected. During the process, a medical examination report is required (which can be submitted by the agent in some regions), or the renewal will fail. I recommend handling it within 90 days in advance, as overdue cases may require retaking the written test. Nowadays, the DMV supports online appointment and form filling, making the process more time-efficient for agents. However, be careful not to make mistakes in the power of attorney—if the matters are not clearly specified, it may result in an extra trip. This delegation service is suitable for working professionals or those with mobility issues, and overall, it is simple and efficient.
