How Long Can a Driver's License Be Overdue Without Consequences?
2 Answers
If your driver's license has expired, a delay of a few days is not a problem, but it must not exceed one year. A driver's license that has been overdue for more than one year without renewal will be revoked. Driving a motor vehicle during the overdue period is not allowed and may be treated as driving without a license. Drivers whose licenses have been expired for less than one year can renew them at any time, but they will face fines if caught driving. How to handle an overdue driver's license: If your driver's license has been overdue for more than one year but less than two years without annual review, you will need to retake the written test (Subject 1) and pass it before you can renew your license. If your license has been overdue for more than two years without annual review, you must return to driving school, retake all three subject tests, and obtain a new license. Where to renew your driver's license: Driver's license renewal is processed at the vehicle management office. If your license has been overdue for more than two years, passing the Subject 1 test will restore its normal use.
I stopped driving immediately when my driver's license expired because driving with an expired license counts as unlicensed driving—not even a single day of leniency. Last time, a friend drove for half a month after expiration, got pulled over by traffic police, fined 500 yuan, and had his car impounded—big trouble. According to the law, if the expiration is less than a year, you can still renew the license directly, but driving during that period carries high risks if caught; exceeding one year requires retaking the theory test to renew. I recommend setting a calendar reminder on your phone to renew the license at the traffic bureau or via an online app at least one month before expiration to ensure safety and avoid issues. Additionally, if an accident occurs while driving with an expired license, the insurance company may deny the claim, leading to even greater losses—don’t take legal risks just to save a few days.
