How long is the driver's license exam extension during the pandemic?
3 Answers
Study certificates that expire during the pandemic are generally extended, usually by a unified three-month extension. You can log in to the Traffic Management 12123 APP to check the validity period of the electronic study driving certificate. Below is relevant information: Exam time: The validity period for the driver's license exam is 3 years, with a total of four subjects. If you fail Subject 1, there is no time limit. According to legal regulations: Within 3 years after passing Subject 1, you must pass Subjects 2, 3, and 4; otherwise, your exam qualification will be canceled. In other words, if you haven't passed all subjects within 3 years, you will have to retake the exam. Driving skill test permit: During the validity period of the driving skill test permit, the number of scheduled exams for Subjects 2 and 3 road driving skills tests must not exceed five times. If you still fail on the fifth scheduled exam, the results of other previously passed subjects will be invalidated.
I was in the process of getting my driver's license during the pandemic, and the test was postponed for about three months before it resumed. At that time, the pandemic was severe, and similar situations occurred in various regions. The length of the delay mainly depended on the severity of the local outbreak and the decisions of the traffic management authorities. For example, some cities experienced delays of over six months during peak periods, while others had shorter delays. I checked the traffic management app every day for updates, as the authorities would arrange make-up tests in batches based on the pandemic situation. During the delay, don’t just wait—review the theoretical questions for Subject 1 or find safe opportunities to practice driving. I actually felt the test went more smoothly after the delay, as safety comes first. You should also check the local traffic management bureau’s website or official WeChat account, enter your personal information, and look up the specific postponement date.
From the traffic management policies I've encountered, the postponement of driver's license exams during the pandemic was mainly to reduce infection risks, with no fixed extension period. It generally depends on the local pandemic severity level. Under major emergencies, it could be delayed for several months, such as three to six months or more. Policies vary by region—cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou may be more sensitive and impose longer delays. Official updates are released via the 12123 APP, so I recommend downloading it and checking for postponement arrangements. After the delay, the exam system will automatically extend eligibility, and testing centers will increase sessions to handle the backlog once exams resume. Stay updated to avoid missing notifications.
