Is a Long-Term Driver's License Permanent?

[AxelRose]

Driver's license long-term is not for life and needs to be renewed after a certain period. The "Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driver's Licenses" clearly states: If a motor vehicle driver's license is not renewed for more than one year after its expiration date, the vehicle management office shall revoke the motor vehicle driver's license. If a motor vehicle driver has not accumulated 12 penalty points in any scoring cycle during the 6-year validity period of the motor vehicle driver's license, they can be issued a motor vehicle driver's license with a 10-year validity period. If the driver has not accumulated 12 penalty points in any scoring cycle during the 10-year validity period of the motor vehicle driver's license, they can be issued a long-term valid motor vehicle driver's license. For drivers over 70 years old, an annual physical examination is required. They must submit a physical examination certificate issued by a medical institution at or above the county level or the regimental level of the military within one month after the end of the scoring cycle, and the date of the physical examination report must not exceed six months.

[VanDonovan]

In our country, a long-term driver's license isn't actually permanent. I've studied the traffic regulations—it refers to a type of long-term valid license that can be issued when a driver reaches the age of 70 or above, provided they meet certain conditions. However, the key requirement is submitting a medical examination certificate every few years. This is because, with age, vision, hearing, or physical reflexes may deteriorate, affecting safe driving. If the medical examination is failed, the vehicle management office has the authority to suspend or revoke the license. I personally witnessed a relative in his 70s who obtained a long-term license. It was fine for the first few years, but after two years, he failed the vision test and had to stop driving. The system is designed to ensure road safety, given the significant physical changes drivers undergo as they age. So, while a long-term license may sound permanent, it actually depends on maintaining good health—it's not a one-time deal. When renewing, don't take it lightly; pay attention to the vehicle management office's medical examination notices.

[SanZane]

I was wondering, this so-called 'long-term driver's license' sounds permanent, but in practice, it's not quite that simple. Having driven for over a decade, I've seen many friends switch to this license when they reached the eligible age, but it's not indefinitely valid. For instance, in our area, those aged 70 and above can apply, but they must submit a medical examination report every three years—fail the exam, and it's game over. I should also mention that even the slightest health issue can affect driving, like declining eyesight. Why do the DMV design it this way? Safety first, plain and simple. Every time I renew mine, I'm on edge, worried about failing the medical check. Plus, the type of license matters—C1/C2 are more lenient, while others like Class A face stricter regulations. Bottom line: while the long-term license is convenient, don't treat it as a lifetime guarantee. Always be ready for inspections.

[Dianne]

From my experience, a long-term driver's license is not permanent. It is intended for elderly drivers who renew their license after the age of 70 and must undergo a medical examination every few years for continued use. Poor physical condition may lead to its invalidation. I know an elderly gentleman who thought 'long-term' meant 'permanent' and neglected the medical check-up, resulting in the suspension of his license. It's advisable to pay attention to notifications regularly to ensure safety.