What is the difference between a driver's license and a driving permit?

[VonJayce]

Here are the differences between a vehicle license and a driver's license: Different definitions: The full name of the driver's license is the motor vehicle driver's license, also known as a "driver's license," which is a certificate required by law for motor vehicle drivers. The motor vehicle license is a legal document that permits a motor vehicle to drive on roads within China. The vehicle license serves as an identification function, containing much information, such as the license plate number, owner's name, engine number, passenger capacity, etc. Different acquisition methods: A driver's license refers to a legal certificate issued by the administrative authorities after a person who is legally allowed to learn to drive a motor vehicle has studied, mastered traffic regulations and driving skills, and passed the examination, permitting them to drive a certain type of motor vehicle. The motor vehicle license is obtained after purchasing a car, bringing the vehicle's factory certificate, paying the vehicle purchase tax, purchasing insurance, and completing these procedures to receive the vehicle license.

[Harmony]

I got my driver's license at the age of 18 and have been driving for over a decade. On the road, I often hear people talk about 'driver's license,' and it feels like these two terms are the same thing—the driving license is the official name, while 'driver's license' is just an abbreviation. I remember when I took the driving test, the forms all said 'Motor Vehicle Driving License,' but in daily conversations, friends would ask, 'Have you got your driver's license yet?'—no difference at all. The key point is, this document proves you can legally drive, no matter what it's called. I usually keep it in my car, and when the police check, I just hand it over. Some say the driver's license is more prone to wear in the cardholder, but official documents are equally durable. Every time I renew it or deal with a traffic violation, I personally go to the DMV to ensure they’re always tied to my identity, with no chance of mix-ups. In short, don’t be misled by the wording—the content and purpose are exactly the same. Keep it safe and don’t lose it, to avoid travel delays or fines.

[McMarcus]

Having worked in the traffic management department for many years, I can confirm that 'driver's license' is the official regulatory term used in all legal documents and certificates, while 'driving license' is simply a commonly used abbreviation—there's no fundamental difference between the two. Both refer to an identity document that authorizes the holder to operate vehicles on public roads. In official settings such as accident handling or law enforcement inspections, we uniformly require the presentation of the original driver's license to ensure clear and verifiable information. Personally, I understand that the term 'driving license' facilitates daily communication, but one shouldn't mistake them as two separate documents. By the way, the license has both a main copy and a duplicate—the duplicate is meant to be kept in the vehicle as a backup, while the main copy should be carried on one's person. Don't mix them up. In short, regardless of what it's called, lawful possession is what truly matters to avoid the risks of unlicensed driving. Safety first for everyone.

[SanBrooklyn]

When I was a kid, I always heard my parents talking about getting a driver's license. It wasn't until I started learning to drive myself that I realized the full name is actually 'driving license,' but people commonly refer to it as 'driver's license'—both mean the same thing. It's just a small plastic card that proves you can drive, issued after passing the required tests. You need to carry it when driving, or the police may stop you and issue a fine if you don't. Some people get hung up on the name, but it's essentially the same, just like how 'ID card' is casually called 'identity card.' The relevant point might be the cost—getting licensed isn't cheap, with thousands spent on training fees and medical checkups, so cherish it and don't lose it. Simply put, it's just a difference in name; the purpose remains the same: allowing you to drive legally on the road.