Is Detention Mandatory for Driving Without a License?
3 Answers
Driving without a license does not necessarily result in detention. According to the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China, driving a motor vehicle without a license may incur a fine ranging from 200 to 2,000 yuan imposed by the traffic management authorities, and may also be accompanied by a detention of up to 15 days. Detention is an optional penalty and may not be imposed. The treatment varies based on the driver's ability to provide a license: 1. If the driver provides a license and has no other violations while driving, they may receive a warning or a fine ranging from 20 to 200 yuan, and the vehicle will be promptly returned. 2. If the driver provides a license but has committed other violations while driving, penalties will be imposed based on the nature of the violations and the failure to carry the license, and the vehicle will be promptly returned. 3. If the driver fails to provide a license, they will be penalized for driving without a license.
I know someone who got caught driving without a license, and that's no small matter. When the police catch you, they'll first issue a fine, usually ranging from a few hundred to over a thousand yuan. However, if the circumstances are severe, such as hit-and-run or repeated offenses, you could be detained for a few days. Detention isn't mandatory every time—it depends on the specific situation and the police's judgment. The first time I was caught driving without a license, I only got fined and wasn't detained because I cooperated and it was my first offense. But you absolutely can't take this lightly. It's best to get your driver's license as soon as possible, or you'll be in big trouble if something happens. Safety first—don't make life harder for yourself.
Driving without a license is a no-go, but detention isn't an absolute rule. I've seen a few cases in my community: one neighbor was caught for the first time, admitted fault honestly, and got off with just a fine and education; but another repeat offender was directly locked up for 15 days. It all depends on the situation, like whether an accident was caused or there was resistance to arrest. In short, don't take the risk—getting a proper license is the best way, and always remember to carry your documents when you go out. Don't wait for trouble to regret it; prevention is key.
