How to Restore a Driver's License That Has Exceeded Its Validity Period by More Than One Year but Less Than Two Years?
4 Answers
To restore a driver's license that has exceeded its validity period by more than one year but less than two years, you need to pass the subject one exam to resume normal use of the license. A driver's license is a document that motor vehicle drivers must obtain in accordance with the law. It is issued after passing an exam that tests the applicant's knowledge of traffic regulations and driving skills acquired through learning how to operate a motor vehicle. The documents required for reissuing a driver's license include: 1. Filling out the motor vehicle driver's license application form; 2. Submitting the original ID card and a copy of both sides or the driver's license; 3. A written statement of loss; 4. Two 1-inch white background photos; 5. For non-local residents, the original and a copy of the temporary residence permit are required. If all requirements are met, the motor vehicle driver's license will be reissued within one day.
I personally experienced driving with an expired license for over a year. Back then, I was too busy to renew it, and it ended up being expired for more than a year, almost two. When I went to the DMV, I found out I needed to go through a reinstatement process: first, get a health certificate from a medical check-up, take a new photo for the license, and bring my original ID card along with a copy. Then, I had to fill out an application form on-site, submit the materials for review, and take the written test (Subject One). The theory questions were pretty basic—just a quick review and I passed. The whole process took me a full day, and I got my new license right after passing the test. My advice is to handle this as early as possible—the longer you wait, the more complicated it gets. Plus, if you're caught driving without a valid license, the penalties can be severe. Developing a habit of regularly checking your documents is the easiest way to stay worry-free.
This situation is actually quite simple to handle. First, I confirmed that my driver's license had expired within one to two years, then I went directly to the DMV to inquire about the specific details. The staff guided me on preparing the required materials: original ID card, a recent medical examination report (which can be done at a community hospital), and a few passport-sized photos. Next, I applied for license reinstatement, and most likely had to take the written test (subject one). The test isn't difficult; it's just a review of traffic regulations. The entire process takes about one to two days, and in more efficient cities, you can even schedule an appointment online to save time. Don't be intimidated by the complexity—getting it done early avoids the risk of driving around with an expired license.
If your driver's license has been expired for over a year but less than two years, a friend of mine just went through this. First, pass the medical examination, then head straight to the DMV with your ID and photos to apply for reinstatement. The key is passing the written test (Subject 1) to assess your knowledge of traffic safety. The questions cover basic common sense, and half a day of review should be sufficient. Typically, you can register for the exam and receive your new license on the same day if you pass—it's quick and affordable. Forgetting to renew is quite common, so don't worry about fines; just handle it promptly.
