How Long Does It Take to Replace a Driver's License?
2 Answers
If all requirements are met, the vehicle management office should reissue the motor vehicle driver's license within one day. Important notes for replacing a driver's license include: 1. Replacement locations: It can be processed at the vehicle management office, traffic police detachment, or driver's license service points, and can also be handled in a different location. Non-local individuals can go to the overseas management window of the vehicle management office. 2. Required documents: Application form for motor vehicle driver's license, lost certificate of motor vehicle driver's license, original and photocopy of ID card (only the photocopy is collected, the original is for verification), and two 1-inch photos. 3. Before applying for a replacement, ensure that: You have not accumulated 12 penalty points in a single scoring cycle; all traffic violation records have been properly handled, with no unpaid tickets.
I just renewed my driver's license recently, and the whole process was super fast. That morning when I realized my license was lost, I immediately took my ID card and a one-inch white-background photo to the DMV. After filling out the application form, queuing up, and paying a 10-yuan fee, I got my new license in just two hours. The staff said most renewals are completed the same day now, but they advised avoiding the peak hours on Mondays. If you're missing materials like a photo and need to take one on-site, it might take an extra half hour. Most importantly, don't drive during the renewal period—if caught driving without a license, you could face fines and vehicle impoundment. Oh, and some cities now allow applications through the Traffic Management 12123 APP for mail delivery, but that takes an extra three to four days.
