What are the penalties for using an original driver's license?
3 Answers
After a driver replaces their driver's license, the original license becomes invalid and must not be used further. If a driver continues to use the original license in violation of regulations, the traffic management department of the public security authority will impose a fine and confiscate the original license. In cases where the original license was lost and later found after a replacement was issued, the driver must surrender the original license to the vehicle management office or destroy it themselves, and must not use both licenses simultaneously. Currently, each driver's license has a unique serial number and is managed with computer traceability. After a driver applies for a replacement license, the original license and its serial number will be marked as invalid in the driver's license management system. If the original license is later found and is still within its validity period, it must still be destroyed and cannot be used. If a driver's license is lost, there is no need to report the loss. The driver only needs to bring relevant documents to the vehicle management office to apply for a replacement. During the replacement process, a copy of the ID card will be required, along with a statement on the copy declaring the loss of the original license, to complete the replacement procedure. Additionally, it is important to note that when replacing a driver's license, the accumulated demerit points in the scoring cycle must not reach twelve. This ensures a smooth replacement process. If the replacement is due to damage to the original license, the original will be confiscated on the spot.
Last time I drove, I forgot my driver's license was about to expire and still used the old one, only to be pulled over by traffic police for inspection. They directly informed me that using an expired license is equivalent to driving without a license. I was fined 200 yuan on the spot and had 3 points deducted from my record. They also warned that more severe cases could result in 15 days of detention. That experience really taught me a lesson—not only wasting time but also affecting my credit record. Now, I’ve set a reminder on my phone to renew my license at the vehicle management office one month in advance every year to avoid such bad luck. Remember, the expiration date of your driver's license is printed right on it—check it regularly. Don’t be like me and neglect it when busy. Safe driving starts with compliant documents.
In China, driving requires a valid driver's license. If you continue to use an expired license, it is legally equivalent to driving without a license. If caught by traffic police, you will typically be fined 200 yuan and have 3 points deducted from your license, with a maximum penalty of 2,000 yuan or 15 days of administrative detention. I've researched this—the penalties are based on Article 99 of the Road Traffic Safety Law, which aims to prevent drivers from failing to update their qualifications. I recommend renewing your license within 90 days before expiration—just visit the DMV to get it done. This avoids fines and ensures road safety. Remember to check your documents regularly so they don’t become a burden. After all, following the rules saves trouble.
