How Long Is the Driver's License Extension During the Pandemic?

[MacElla]

The driving test can be postponed for 3 months due to the pandemic. Generally, learning permits that expire during the pandemic will be extended, typically by three months. You can check the validity period of the electronic learning driving permit by logging into the Traffic Management 12123 APP. As policies vary by region, some candidates have reported that the driving test extension is not time-limited. Learning driving permits obtained before or during the pandemic are uniformly extended in validity. Therefore, it is recommended that candidates contact their local vehicle management office for inquiries or check the validity period of their learning driving permit when scheduling a test on the Traffic Management 12123 APP, as the page will display the expiration date. Since the driving test has just resumed, vehicle management offices need to prioritize scheduling tests for candidates whose permits are about to expire. Additionally, as the pandemic is not yet fully over, the daily quota for test appointments is lower than before. If you are not in a hurry, you may consider postponing your test. Meanwhile, candidates with less than 6 months remaining on their learning driving permits can use the priority scheduling feature on the internet platform to arrange one priority test for each subject within the validity period.

[SanCollin]

I remember during the pandemic last year when my driver's license was about to expire, everywhere was locked down, and queuing at the DMV was risky. The government then introduced an extension policy, generally allowing a 6-month extension, depending on the region—like Beijing, which extended it until the end of the pandemic plus a buffer period. This was quite considerate, reducing the risk of infection from going out, allowing people to drive without rushing to renew their licenses. Later, I asked a friend at the DMV, who said most places across the country had similar policies, but if the extension period passed without renewal, it's best to check the local traffic management app or official website, as some places even offered online renewal services. I recommend paying attention to driving safety during this period and not letting the license expire for too long to avoid trouble during traffic stops. Also, car insurance should align with the validity period to avoid a lapse in coverage.

[McJeremiah]

As a new driver who just got my license, I was really worried when my driver's license was about to expire during the pandemic. I kept waiting for notifications and later found out there was an extension policy, usually granting a 6-month grace period so I didn't have to renew it immediately. I think this policy is quite considerate, probably to prevent overcrowding at DMVs. My friend taught me to check the renewal process online, saying the local traffic authority's official account had guidelines, and police wouldn't randomly penalize during the extension. Just remember to arrange renewal before expiration – reminder apps with time limits are really helpful, and they can also help check your vehicle's annual inspection status to avoid double delays.

[KaiMarie]

Actually, at that time, a nationwide policy of extending driver's licenses was widely implemented, with most regions uniformly extending them by 6 months, automatically calculated until the pandemic eased. The main purpose was to avoid crowds and reduce the burden on vehicle management offices. You could still drive without penalty, but you needed to renew your license as soon as possible afterward. Some provinces and cities, like Wuhan, extended the period longer based on the situation, so it's best to check local announcements. Additionally, during the pandemic, the process for replacing licenses was simplified, with online appointments saving time. These details are clearly outlined on official websites, so stay updated with the latest information.