Is the driver's license renewal 90 days in advance or within 90 days?
4 Answers
It can only be processed on weekdays within three months. The following is the relevant introduction about the driver's license: License renewal: No annual review is required within the 6-year validity period of the driver's license. The driver should go to the traffic police branch under his jurisdiction to renew the license within 90 days before the expiration date. Computer confirmation: Driver friends over 60 years old, no matter what kind of driver's license they hold, must go to the vehicle management section of the traffic police branch under their jurisdiction to obtain the "Motor Vehicle Driver's License Application Form" during the original annual review period each year. After going to the designated hospital for a physical examination, they must submit the application form back to the vehicle management section for computer confirmation. After taking photos and undergoing a physical examination at the hospital, the application form must be submitted back to the vehicle management section for computer confirmation.
When I renewed my driver's license last year, I specifically researched the regulations and concluded that you can apply for renewal within 90 days before the license expires, whether it's 90 days in advance or just a few days before expiration. In fact, the traffic laws set this time window precisely to give drivers a buffer, so they don't end up driving without a valid license and getting fined. I renewed mine 70 days early, and the process was straightforward: original ID card, a recent photo, and a medical examination report. The DMV wasn't crowded, and it took just 10 minutes. However, if you let it expire beyond the 90-day window, you’ll have to retake the theoretical exam, which is a hassle. A friend of mine learned this the hard way—he waited until there were only 5 days left, but the National Day holiday delayed things, causing his license to expire. He had to spend two weeks retaking the test. So my advice is not to cut it too close—aim for 30 to 60 days in advance. Plan wisely to avoid disrupting your daily driving.
As a driver who frequently takes long trips, I believe it's best to handle license renewal during the 90-day window period when you're not too busy. The policy allows applications starting three months before the license expires, up until the expiration date, so you can do it 90 days in advance. However, there's no need to rush—choosing a mid-period, like around 45 days ahead, ensures you have all the required documents and avoids crowded DMV offices. Once expired, you'll have to reapply, wasting both time and money. I usually use a mobile app to schedule an appointment, check local DMV requirements, and bring all necessary items like photos, ID, and medical forms for a quick process. Safe driving starts with ensuring your documents are valid—otherwise, you risk fines or even vehicle impoundment. Missing the window period is just asking for trouble, so I always remind myself not to be careless and to stay punctual for a hassle-free renewal.
The rule for driver's license renewal allows applications to be submitted within 90 days before expiration, including both the 90-day early period and the imminent expiration date. After expiration, renewal is no longer possible, and you must retake the driving test. I recommend making good use of this window and acting around 60 days in advance for optimal safety. Required documents are simple: ID card, original driver's license, photo, and medical examination certificate. Bring all materials to the DMV or apply online. Don't delay—if any issues arise with your documents, you'll still have time to address them. Letting your license expire can result in fines and the risk of driving unlicensed. Following the rules ensures road safety.
