How many days in advance can I renew my driver's license?
3 Answers
Driver's license renewal can only be processed 90 days in advance. Please note the following points: 1. Prepare relevant materials in advance: Have all required documents ready, including original and photocopy of ID card, physical condition certificate, temporary residence permit for non-local residents, etc. 2. Processing hours: Monday to Friday. 3. Fee standards: A processing fee of 20 yuan is charged for driver's license renewal. 4. Whether proxy service is needed: If you are in another city, you can authorize someone else to handle the renewal. For proxy services, the authorized person's ID card and power of attorney are required.
I just went to renew my driver's license last week, and actually, you can start the process three months in advance. The authorities say it can be done within 90 days before the expiration date, which gives you nearly a three-month buffer. I remember going to the DMV 85 days early, and it was completely fine. The benefits of this arrangement are obvious: avoiding the peak crowds right before expiration, with no queues at the service windows; and if there are any issues with the materials, there's time to rectify them, like retaking a failed medical exam. By the way, I'd like to remind everyone to bring the original ID card, the old driver's license, and a recent white-background photo taken within the last six months. Some cities now even allow online applications with mail delivery, saving you a trip. Don't wait until the last few days to renew your license, as rushing can easily lead to mistakes.
After driving for ten years and renewing my license twice, I've found the best time to renew is two to three months in advance. The law allows applications to be submitted 90 days before expiration, but I prefer to handle it around 60 days early. This buffer period is highly practical: it helps avoid the year-end renewal rush and eliminates the risk of forgetting. Last time, I deliberately chose a weekday morning for renewal and completed the entire process in just half an hour. Key point to note: renewing early doesn't shorten the new license's validity period—it still extends for ten years from the original expiration date. Nowadays, some DMVs have self-service medical exam machines, so you don't even need to visit a hospital. I strongly recommend finding time to get it done early instead of scrambling at the last minute.
