What documents are required for driving on the road?
3 Answers
Driving on the road requires the following documents: Driver's License: The permitted vehicle types on the driver's license must match the vehicle being driven, and the annual review records on the license must meet the requirements. Vehicle Registration Certificate: Carry the vehicle registration certificate that matches the license plate of the vehicle being driven. The registration certificate must not be lent, altered, or forged. Driver's ID Card: An ID card may be necessary in certain situations, so it's best to carry it as well. License Plate (or Temporary License Plate or Replacement Plate Certificate): License plates should be installed at both the front and rear of the vehicle. For trucks or trailers, the rear exterior of the cargo compartment should display enlarged white characters matching the license plate number. The license plate must be appropriately and visibly positioned, with clear characters, and must correspond to the vehicle type and number on the registration certificate. Expired or invalid temporary license plates are not permitted.
Before every drive, I make it a habit to check the necessary documents I carry, mainly including my driver's license, vehicle registration certificate, and a copy of the insurance policy. The driver's license proves my legal right to drive, while the vehicle registration certifies the vehicle's identity—both are indispensable. Although the insurance policy isn't checked daily, it comes in handy during accidents. I remember the first time I drove, I was so excited that I forgot my documents and got pulled over by the police, who gave me a lecture and nearly fined me. Since then, I've developed the habit of always keeping my documents in the small compartment in front of the car. An extra tip is to carry an ID card for convenience when refueling or checking into accommodations. Modern technology allows storing electronic versions on phones, but I still prefer carrying physical copies in case of poor signal. Driving isn't just about skill; documents are small details that play a big role—don't take them lightly.
In China, the document checklist for driving is straightforward: you must carry your driver's license and vehicle registration certificate. The driver's license serves as proof of your driving qualification—without it, you can't legally drive. The vehicle registration certificate records vehicle information, ensuring the car is properly registered. Traffic police will check these during roadside inspections. Beyond these two essentials, the compulsory traffic insurance proof is now digital and can be shown on your phone, though keeping a paper backup is advisable. The annual inspection sticker has also been integrated into the system. I make it a habit to store copies of these documents separately from the originals, always keeping a spare set in the car's glove compartment in case I forget my bag. Safety first—avoiding fines for unlicensed driving is as simple as taking an extra ten seconds before starting your trip to double-check. This small effort saves hassle and keeps you worry-free.
