How to Apply for a Driver's License Renewal When It Expires?
3 Answers
When your driver's license is about to expire, you can apply for renewal as follows: According to regulations, you should submit your application to the local vehicle management office 90 days before the expiration date. Before applying, ensure all traffic violations and accidents related to the license are resolved, and the license is in normal status. The following materials are required: 1. Resident ID card (for those with ID cards from other provinces or cities, a temporary residence permit is also needed) and a copy; 2. Original driver's license; 3. Three recent 1-inch white-background color photos of yourself; 4. Medical examination qualification certificate from a district-level or above hospital (hospitals usually have designated medical examination points near the vehicle management office or traffic police station); 5. The applicant needs to obtain and fill out the "Motor Vehicle Driver's License Application Form" at the vehicle management office according to the instructions.
Last year when my driver's license was about to expire, I personally went through the renewal process which was quite straightforward. I received a text message reminder one month in advance, prompting me to get a medical check-up at a designated hospital, mainly for vision and general health assessment, and obtained a qualified report. Then I prepared the original and photocopy of my ID card, two recent one-inch white background photos, and my old driver's license. I chose to handle it at the local DMV, waited in line for a while, filled out an application form and submitted it to the counter staff, then paid a processing fee of a few dozen yuan. The staff processed it on the spot and informed me that the new license would be mailed to my home in about a week. I'd suggest not waiting until the expiration date to start the process, as long queues might delay safe driving—it's best to prepare at least one week in advance. Looking back, having all the required materials ready was crucial; missing even one item could mean having to make another trip. Next time, I'll try online appointment to save time.
When renewing my driver's license, I follow the steps systematically. First, I check the remaining validity period of my current license, usually handling it within three months before expiration. The first step is to get a medical examination report from a hospital—this is a mandatory requirement, so don't delay your plans. The second step is to bring all the necessary documents: ID card, old driver's license, and a few standard photos to the nearest vehicle management office or traffic police station. The third step is to fill out forms on-site, queue up, pay the fee, and it's done—the new license is issued quickly. Some places allow online applications, saving the hassle of queuing. A reminder: don’t forget to bring photos, as taking them on-site is expensive and slow. Also, avoid driving after the license expires—getting caught will result in points deduction and fines. Prepare extra copies of documents as a precaution. Overall, it’s not complicated, just don’t be careless.
