How to Renew a Driver's License After 6 Years?

[VanWilliam]

There are two ways to renew an expired driver's license: One is to visit the local traffic management department in person. According to Article 57 of the 'Traffic Regulations and Penalty Rules,' the driver should apply for renewal at the vehicle management office that issued the license or another authorized office within 90 days before the license expires. The other method is to use the online renewal service via the Traffic Management 12123 app (V2.8.1B437 for iOS 15 and above or V2.8.1B274 for Android 12 and above). Taking Apple iOS 15 as an example: Open the Traffic Management app on an iPhone, navigate to the driver's license services page, find the 'Renew Expired License' option, and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the online renewal process. For driver's license renewal and annual review, the old license must be surrendered to the vehicle management office. According to the Ministry of Public Security's Order No. 123, drivers can apply for renewal up to 90 days in advance at the original issuing office. Documents required for renewal: Original and photocopy of ID card. Medical examination certificate from a designated hospital. Completed renewal application form and processing fee. Three one-inch white-background color photos. Photos and medical certificates can be prepared in advance. If unsure about compliance, they can be obtained directly at the traffic police office to save time. Important notes on renewal: Driving with an expired license may result in a fine but no penalty points. Renewal deadlines apply: if expired for less than a year, normal renewal is possible; if expired for 1-3 years, the license is revoked, but can be regained by passing the written test; if expired for over 3 years, the license is permanently revoked. For applicants of special small automatic passenger vehicles for disabled individuals, a medical certificate from a designated provincial medical institution is required.

[StDavid]

I've been driving for over a decade and am quite familiar with the license renewal process. You should start preparing within 90 days before expiration – don't wait until the last day. First, get a physical exam at designated hospitals, which usually takes half an hour and costs a few dozen yuan. Remember to bring back the medical certificate. Then visit the DMV with your original ID card, old license, and one white-background passport photo to submit an application form. The staff processes it quickly – you'll get the new license on the spot for about 10 yuan. The whole procedure is simple and efficient, but forgetting the medical certificate means making two trips. Late renewal may incur fines or affect driving privileges. I recommend scheduling a weekend visit two weeks in advance for hassle-free handling. Routine vehicle maintenance checks can also monitor license status to prevent surprises. Always verify information on the new license – errors must be corrected immediately.