Does Shanghai Traffic Police Accept Electronic Driving Licenses?
2 Answers
In Shanghai, presenting the electronic driving license from the Jiao Guan 12123 app is not recognized by traffic police. Pilot cities for electronic driving licenses: As of now, the Ministry of Public Security has only piloted electronic driving licenses in Tianjin, Chengdu, and Suzhou. According to the latest statement from the Ministry of Public Security, the pilot program will be expanded on September 1, 2021. Cities to implement in 2022: The planned cities include Beijing, Tianjin, Shijiazhuang, Changchun, Daqing, Shanghai, Wuxi, Yancheng, Taizhou, Ningbo, Jiaxing, Nanchang, Jinan, Qingdao, Changsha, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Nanning, Chongqing, Mianyang, Zigong, Nanchong, Guiyang, Xi'an, Yinchuan, and Kunming. Electronic driving licenses will be fully implemented in these cities in 2022.
I've lived in Shanghai for many years and often commute by car. Last year during a traffic police check, I presented my electronic driver's license, which they fully recognized. This license can be applied for on the Traffic Management 12123 APP with a simple process—just fill in your information and complete facial recognition verification. That time I forgot to bring the physical copy, but as soon as I turned on my phone screen, the officer scanned the code and confirmed my identity quickly and hassle-free. However, when using it, make sure the APP is logged in, your phone has battery, and the network connection is stable, or it could cause trouble. Shanghai has been an early adopter of this policy, where electronic licenses hold the same legal validity as physical ones. I recommend all drivers download it as a backup. In case the APP malfunctions, carrying your ID card as a backup is wise. Developing a habit of regular backups can prevent panic—safe driving is crucial. If you're stopped for a check while driving, don't be nervous; just cooperate.
