How long can the renewal of a C1 driver's license be delayed after 6 years of expiration?
2 Answers
The renewal of a driver's license after 6 years can be delayed for up to three years. If the renewal cannot be completed within the stipulated time, an application for an extension must be submitted to the vehicle management office at the place where the driver's license was originally issued. According to Article 73 of the 'Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driver's Licenses,' if a driver is unable to renew the license, undergo an inspection, or submit a physical condition certificate within the specified time, they may apply for an extension at the vehicle management office where the license was issued. Below are the key points to note for license renewal: Less than one year overdue: The license can be renewed normally. One to three years overdue: The license will be revoked, but it can be renewed by passing the subject one exam. More than three years overdue: The license will be invalidated and cannot be renewed.
I remember last year when my C1 driver's license was about to expire, I almost forgot to renew it and ended up getting fined when the police checked me while driving. Actually, you can't delay renewing an expired license at all—it must be done promptly. According to Chinese traffic laws, you can apply for a new license up to 90 days before the expiration date. Even within one year after expiration, you can still renew it normally without taking any tests. However, if you delay beyond one year, you might have to retake the written test (Subject 1), and if it's over two years, the license becomes completely invalid, requiring you to start from scratch. I recommend going to the DMV or handling it online in advance—don’t be lazy like me, or you might end up disrupting your work or child pickups. Recently, the physical exam requirements have also become stricter, but just bring a photo and you can get it done. The earlier you act, the fewer hassles you’ll face. Safety first.
