Is it okay to renew the driver's license one week late?
2 Answers
There is no penalty for renewing the driver's license one week after expiration, but driving a motor vehicle is prohibited after the license expires. Time: The renewal should be processed within 90 days before expiration. It can still be renewed normally within one year after expiration. If the license has been expired for more than one year but less than three years, passing the subject one test is required for renewal. If the license has been expired for more than three years, it becomes invalid. Driving is not allowed during the overdue period. Regulations: The motor vehicle driver shall apply for renewal at the vehicle management office of the issuing place or elsewhere within 90 days before the expiration of the driver's license. When applying, the applicant shall fill out the application form and submit the following documents and certificates: the identity certificate of the motor vehicle driver; the motor vehicle driver's license; the medical certificate of physical condition issued by a county-level or higher medical institution or a military medical institution at or above the regimental level. For those applying for a small automatic transmission passenger car for the disabled, a medical certificate of physical condition issued by a specialized medical institution designated by the provincial health authority shall be submitted.
My driver's license expired last year, and I was delayed by a week to renew it. At that time, I thought it was no big deal, but when I drove to handle some errands, I was stopped by traffic police for inspection. They said an expired license is considered driving without a license, resulting in a 200-yuan fine and 2 points deducted. This was still light; if an accident had occurred, the insurance company might have refused to compensate, which would have been worse. I hurried to the vehicle management office to apply for a replacement. Remember to bring your ID card, old driver's license, and medical examination report. The staff mentioned that a delay within a week is considered a 'grace period' as long as you didn’t drive, so it’s not illegal. But it’s best not to delay. Nowadays, many places allow online appointment for license renewal, saving you from queuing and delays. Everyone, remember to set a reminder when your driver's license is about to expire and renew it one or two months in advance to avoid fines and ensure safe driving.
