What is the difference between driving without a license and not carrying a driver's license?
2 Answers
Forgetting to bring your driver's license while driving is considered "not carrying the license" and does not constitute "driving without a license." The traffic police will not detain the individual but will temporarily impound the vehicle. "Not carrying" is not the same as "no license," but both are traffic violations, though the penalties differ. Regardless of whether the driver has committed any other violations while driving, they are not allowed to continue driving, and the traffic management department of the public security authority must impound the vehicle and request the driver to provide the license. Then, based on the driver's situation, the following actions are taken: 1. If the driver provides the license and has no other violations while driving: issue a warning or impose a fine, and promptly return the vehicle. 2. If the driver provides the license but has committed other violations while driving: penalize according to the violations and for not carrying the license, then promptly return the vehicle. 3. If the driver fails to provide the license: penalize as driving without a license.
I remember one time when I was driving out and accidentally left my driver's license at home. I got pulled over by the police, and my heart was in my throat. Not carrying a driver's license is this kind of situation—you have a license but forgot to bring it. The police will verify your identity and usually just give a warning or a small fine. On the other hand, driving without a license is completely different—it means you never passed the driving test or your license has expired, which is illegal and carries much more severe penalties, such as immediate vehicle impoundment, heavy fines, or even detention. Later, I developed a habit of keeping an electronic copy of my license on my phone to avoid forgetting it. Don’t underestimate this oversight: during traffic checks, not carrying your license is just an inconvenience, but driving without a license can pose accident risks, as lack of training endangers both yourself and others. Insurance is also affected: if you have an accident while driving without a license, the insurance company will most likely not cover the damages, leading to significant losses. If you just forgot your license, claims proceed normally. I recommend everyone to get licensed before learning to drive—safety first.
