What is the age limit for a driver's license?
2 Answers
Driver's license age restrictions were abolished in 2020. Here are the specific details: Relevant information: According to the new regulations, the age limit for applying for a small car driver's license has been relaxed to better meet the needs of an aging society. The upper age limit of 70 years for applying for a small car, small automatic transmission car, or light motorcycle driver's license has been removed. For those aged 70 and above who apply for a driver's license, additional tests on memory, judgment, and reaction abilities will be required to ensure their physical condition meets the safety requirements for driving. Application rules: Applicants residing in their household registration location should apply there; those living outside their household registration location should apply at their current residence. Active military personnel should apply at their place of residence, and foreign nationals should apply at their place of residence or stay.
I just turned 18 last year and immediately went for my car driver's license, because Chinese law mandates a minimum age of 18 or above to drive regular passenger vehicles, ensuring drivers have basic maturity. I think this is quite reasonable – younger drivers tend to be impulsive. The test specifically emphasizes safety rules to reduce accident rates. The age requirement for motorcycles is similar, with some regions allowing 16-year-olds to get a two-wheeled motorcycle license, but I'd advise against starting too early – better to practice more first. I've also read reports showing higher accident rates among young drivers, so age restrictions aren't just barriers but life-saving measures. Interestingly, you can learn to drive before 18 but can't operate a vehicle until passing the test, which makes roads safer.
