Must the driver's license be renewed in person?
3 Answers
You can authorize someone else to handle the driver's license renewal on your behalf. Here is some relevant information about driver's licenses: 1. Probationary period for driver's license: According to national regulations, the probationary period for new drivers starts from the day they first obtain their driver's license and lasts for 12 months thereafter. 2. Precautions for driving during the probationary period: If driving on highways during the probationary period, there must be a co-driver with a corresponding or higher-level driver's license and at least three years of driving experience to provide guidance. Additionally, during the probationary period, a probationary sign should be affixed or hung at the rear of the vehicle.
I remember not long ago I went to renew my driver's license myself, and the whole process was actually quite simple, but you still have to go in person. The vehicle management office has regulations that require a physical examination when renewing the license, mainly checking vision, hearing, etc., to ensure you can still drive safely. Photos are also taken on the spot, and you can't use old photos to get by. Once, my friend wanted to help his father with the renewal, but was rejected because the person had to be present unless under special circumstances, such as for disabled individuals or those working in another location, where a power of attorney and relevant documents might allow partial document submission by proxy, but the physical examination still requires the person to be present. This emphasizes safety, preventing impersonation and ensuring the authenticity of the driver's license information. So my advice is to make an appointment in advance, bring your ID card, old driver's license, and physical examination report, and go early to queue up, saving time and ensuring a smooth process.
From my experience, renewing a driver's license usually requires a personal visit to the DMV—you can't cut corners by having relatives or friends handle it for you. The reason is straightforward: the law mandates that drivers must personally complete the medical examination and on-site photo session to confirm their physical fitness and verify their identity. When I renewed mine last year, I spent half a day queuing for the medical check, which felt a bit tedious, but it ensured no fraudulent activities. If you're pressed for time, some cities like Beijing or Shanghai might allow online submission of documents for proxy processing, but the final critical steps still require your personal presence. Check local policies in advance to avoid wasted trips. Also, remember to bring all necessary documents, such as your original ID card and a copy of your old license, or you'll end up making extra trips. In short, handling it yourself is the safest and most reliable approach—don't cut corners with proxy services to avoid potential disputes.
