How early can I renew my driver's license?
2 Answers
You can renew your driver's license up to 90 days in advance. The renewal must be processed at the local vehicle management office. The required documents for renewal include ID card, driver's license, medical examination certificate, photos, etc. The vehicle management office is mainly responsible for handling motor vehicle registration, modification, transfer, mortgage, cancellation, driver's license application, replacement, renewal, inspection, and other related services for motor vehicles and drivers. The specific renewal process is as follows: 1. Take a photo at a photo studio with driver's license photo qualifications; 2. Make copies of your ID card and residence permit; 3. Undergo a medical examination at a hospital designated by the vehicle management office and obtain the medical examination report; 4. Go to the vehicle management office, take a number, wait in line, and fill out a driver's license application form, then attach the photo; 5. When your number is called, submit the materials to the staff at the vehicle management office and wait for the review. If the materials are complete, the review will be quickly approved; 6. After approval, pay the driver's license fee, then submit the receipt with the payment stamp to the staff and wait to receive your new license.
Last time I dealt with my driver's license renewal, I specifically went to the DMV to clarify. They said you can apply 90 days in advance, which means three months before the old license expires. This timing works well for me. I calculated that last time, I went to handle it two months before expiration, bringing my ID, old driver's license, and photos, and also took a vision test. The process didn’t take long—about half an hour—and the new license was issued on the spot. A reminder to everyone: don’t wait until it’s almost expired to act. If you drive with an expired license and get into an accident, insurance won’t cover it, and if you’re caught, you’ll face fines—totally not worth it. I know a friend who forgot to renew his license, and after it expired, he got into a minor scrape and had to pay thousands out of pocket. Luckily, he got it renewed in time. So I recommend setting a phone reminder or checking local official accounts for appointments—it saves time and effort, and ensures driving safety comes first. Don’t underestimate this early renewal period; it makes daily planning much easier.
