How to Convert a Military Driver's License to a Civilian One?
2 Answers
Individuals holding a military or armed police force motor vehicle driver's license who wish to apply for a civilian motor vehicle driver's license must fill out an application form and submit relevant proofs and documents. The vehicle management office shall issue the motor vehicle driver's license on the same day the applicant participates in the license oath-taking ceremony. For those applying to add permitted driving vehicle types, the original motor vehicle driver's license must be surrendered. For those who are demobilized, transferred, or retired, the military or armed police force motor vehicle driver's license must be surrendered. Applicants need to submit the following proofs and documents: 1. The applicant's identity proof. For demobilized, transferred, or retired personnel, they must also submit the demobilization, transfer, or retirement proof issued by the military or armed police force; 2. A medical certificate on physical conditions issued by a county-level or military regiment-level medical institution; 3. The military or armed police force motor vehicle driver's license.
When I was discharged from the military last year, I also changed to a local driver's license. It was actually quite simple. Just prepare your military driver's license, discharge certificate, and original ID card, then go to the local DMV to fill out an application form. You need to take a physical exam first. I recommend making an appointment in advance on the Traffic Management 12123 App to avoid queues. Converting a military license to a Class C license is most common. If you want to drive a truck, you'll need to get an additional endorsement. Remember to photocopy both sides of all your documents—printing shops near the DMV charge double. The written test is easy; just go through the question bank a few times—it's much simpler than military traffic rules. The whole process can be completed in half a day if it goes smoothly, and the fee is only about a dozen yuan.
