How Long in Advance Should a Driver's License Be Renewed?
2 Answers
Driver's license renewal can be processed within 90 days before the expiration date. Time regulations: If the license has expired for less than one year, it can be renewed normally; if it has expired for more than one year but less than three years, the license will be revoked, but it can be renewed by passing the subject one exam; if it has expired for more than three years, the license will become invalid and cannot be renewed. Renewal period: The motor vehicle driver should apply for renewal at the vehicle management office of the place where the driver's license was issued within 90 days before the expiration of the motor vehicle driver's license. When applying, the "Motor Vehicle Driver's License Application Form" should be filled out. Renewal materials: Bring two copies of ID card, two recent 1-inch color photos without a hat, original ID card, original driver's license, and a medical examination certificate from a county-level or above hospital (free medical examination is also available at the vehicle management office).
I've been driving for nearly thirty years and have seen many people suffer because they forgot to renew their driver's license. The law strictly requires renewal within 90 days before the license expires. My experience tells me it's safest to start the process three months in advance—this allows time to gather missing documents or complete medical exams if needed. Last year, Uncle Zhang in our neighborhood waited until the last few days and almost got into trouble when his vision test revealed insufficient eyesight. Nowadays, mobile apps make it convenient—just set a reminder for automatic notifications when renewal is due. Driving with an expired license risks a minimum fine of 200 yuan if caught by traffic police, invalidates the license, and voids accident insurance coverage. Safe driving starts with attention to detail—forming good habits is crucial.
