How Many Times Can You Retake the Test to Restore Driving Eligibility?
2 Answers
You can only restore your driver's license after passing the test, regardless of how many times you take it. If you accumulate 12 points, your license will be directly revoked, and you must reapply and start the driving test process from scratch. Therefore, during the probation period for a Class C driver's license, make sure not to accumulate 12 points—meaning you can only have a maximum of 11 points. Point Deduction: Driver's license point deductions are penalties for traffic violations. Depending on the severity of the traffic violation, points can range from a minimum of 1 to a maximum of 12 per incident. The scoring cycle is one inspection period. If a driver accumulates 12 points within one cycle, they lose their driving eligibility and must undergo at least 7 days of traffic safety education. Only after passing the test can they restore their driving eligibility. Retaking the Test for an Expired License: If a driver's license has been expired for more than 3 years, you must retake the test. If the license has been expired for more than one year without renewal, the vehicle management office will revoke the license. For periods between 1 and 3 years (excluding 3 years), the license will be in a revocable but restorable state, requiring you to retake and pass the subject one test to restore eligibility. For 3 years or more, the license will be permanently revoked, and you must retake the entire driving test to drive again.
I had my driver's license suspended a few times before, and the reinstatement qualification test usually allows multiple attempts. As long as you can afford the registration fee and sign up according to the scheduled time, you can keep trying. For example, here in Beijing, after failing the first time, I waited three months and passed on the second attempt. The DMV staff told me there's basically no limit on the number of tries, but if you fail three times in a row, they might require you to take a safe driving course. The key is to follow local regulations—some places may require you to reapply promptly after completing the test. I recommend brushing up on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills beforehand so you can pass in one go, which saves time and hassle. Never take the test unprepared—it's a waste of money and delays the process. The whole point of reinstating your license is to ensure you're safe on the road.
