How long does it take to receive a renewed driver's license by mail?
2 Answers
It usually takes three to five days to receive the renewed driver's license by mail. Validity period of driver's license: Article 56 of the "Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driver's Licenses": If a motor vehicle driver has not accumulated 12 penalty points in any scoring cycle during the six-year validity period of the motor vehicle driver's license, the driver's license will be renewed with a ten-year validity period; if the driver has not accumulated 12 penalty points in any scoring cycle during the ten-year validity period, the driver's license will be renewed with a long-term validity. Regulations on the invalidation of driver's license: If the license expires less than one year, it can be renewed normally; if it expires between one to three years, the license will be canceled, but it can be renewed by passing the subject one test; if it expires more than three years, the license will be invalid and cannot be renewed.
I've renewed my driver's license several times. The mailing processing time usually takes about 10 working days, with the shortest possible delivery within a week and the longest possibly over two weeks. This mainly depends on your location—big cities are more efficient, while remote or hard-to-reach areas may experience delays. Peak periods like year-end with high application volumes can cause hold-ups, and the mailing method is also crucial. Regular postal service is slower, while express delivery can get it to you in just a few days. It's advisable to start the process a month before your old license expires to avoid driving disruptions in case of delays. Additionally, the old license can usually be used temporarily during the mailing period, but confirm local traffic regulations to prevent issues if checked on the road. Safety first—don’t just wait for the mail; act early.
