How long before the expiration of the driver's license should one apply for renewal?
2 Answers
Driver's licenses are valid for 6 years, 10 years, or indefinitely. Generally, one can apply for renewal within 3 months before the expiration of the driver's license. The required documents for renewing a driver's license are as follows: 1. Three 1-inch white background bareheaded photos, motor vehicle physical condition certificate, application form, with one each required for the new license. 2. Original ID card and one copy. 3. Physical examination form, which must be machine-printed. 4. "Motor Vehicle Driver's License Application Form" and the original driver's license. Additional information: If the license has expired for less than a year, it can be renewed normally; if expired for more than one year but less than three years, the license will be revoked; if expired for more than three years, the license will be invalid and cannot be renewed.
As a veteran driver with over 20 years of experience, I've renewed my driver's license several times. I usually start preparing about 3 months before expiration. Traffic regulations clearly allow license renewal applications 90 days in advance. I prefer going to the DMV early with my ID card, old license, medical exam report, and 1-inch photo. Nowadays you can even make appointments through the 12123 Traffic Management APP to avoid wasting time in queues. Remember not to wait until the last few days - system maintenance or missing documents could cause trouble. Driving with an expired license may result in fines and demerit points if caught, and retaking the theoretical test is even more troublesome. Every time I renew my license, I also check my vehicle inspection schedule to avoid missing other important deadlines.
