Is it prohibited to drive a motor vehicle with a damaged driver's license?
2 Answers
It is prohibited to drive a motor vehicle with a damaged driver's license. According to Article 28 of the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China": Motor vehicle drivers shall not drive motor vehicles when their driver's licenses are lost, damaged, expired, or during the period when they are legally detained or temporarily suspended, or when the accumulated demerit points reach 12. Below is additional information: 1. Required materials for replacement: A recent 1-inch bareheaded photo of the driver (white background); Original and photocopy of the driver's ID card; (Damaged old driver's license) For lost driver's licenses, write a loss statement in the blank space of the ID card photocopy, and add a signature and date; "Motor Vehicle Driver's License Application Form". 2. Before the expiration: Drivers who have lost their licenses and are applying for a replacement are within the period where they have not submitted a physical condition certificate (inspection). Please bring the original ID card of the driver to first complete the driver's license inspection according to the "Driver's License Inspection Work Process", and then proceed with the replacement process according to this work process.
I've been driving for over a decade, and let me tell you, never risk driving with a damaged license. Traffic regulations require drivers to carry a complete and valid license at all times. A damaged license might have illegible information, which could lead traffic police to mistake it for driving without a license. Not only could you face a fine starting at 200 yuan, but you might also get points deducted or even face detention. I remember my neighbor once drove with a torn license and got into an accident. The insurance company refused to cover the damages, and he ended up paying nearly ten thousand out of pocket for repairs. That incident taught me a lesson: if your license is damaged, stop driving immediately and go to the DMV for a replacement. Just bring your ID card and a one-inch photo, fill out a form, and spend a little money and time to get a new license. Don't ignore safety to save trouble—once you cross the legal red line, you'll regret it. Driving is supposed to be convenient, but accidents only add stress. Get everything sorted properly before hitting the road for peace of mind.
