What is the validity period for driver's license renewal?
3 Answers
The renewal period for a driver's license is divided into three time frames: 6 years, 10 years, and permanent. Normally, the initial driver's license is valid for 6 years. After 6 years, it can be renewed to a 10-year validity license, and after 10 years, it can be renewed to a permanent license. Things to note when your driver's license expires: 1. Renewal time: You can apply for a new license up to 90 days before the expiration date at the vehicle management office where the license was originally issued. 2. Expired for 1 year: If you fail to renew your license on time, you can still apply for a new one within 12 months after expiration, provided you have not driven a motor vehicle during this period. Otherwise, you will be penalized for driving without a license, facing a fine of around 2000 yuan and 15 days of detention. 3. Expired for 3 years: If your license has been expired for more than 12 months but less than 36 months, you will need to retake the subject one exam to renew your license. Driving during this period is also prohibited. 4. Expired for more than 3 years: If your license has been expired for more than 36 months, it will be revoked, and you will need to reapply for a new driver's license from scratch.
The validity period for a driver's license renewal is 10 years, which I have personally experienced. I remember when my driver's license was about to expire the year before last, I went to the vehicle management office 90 days in advance to apply for a renewal. The whole process was quick—just bringing my ID card and a few photos got it done. The staff explained that if this was the first renewal and my driving record was good without any 12-point deductions, the new license would be valid for 10 years. From when I first got my license in 2010 to renewing it in 2023, the new validity period extends to 2033. I recommend not waiting until the last minute to handle it; otherwise, driving with an expired license could result in fines, possible point deductions, and affect daily commutes. It's also important to keep the old license as a reference for the renewal process.
The validity period of a driver's license after renewal is 10 years according to China's traffic laws, applicable to most people renewing for the first time. The initial validity period of a driver's license is 6 years. If there are no major traffic violations within these 6 years, such as accumulating 12 penalty points, the renewal will extend the validity to 10 years. Age is also a key factor; if you are over 60 years old at the time of renewal, the validity period will be shortened to 5 years or less. I recommend visiting the local vehicle management office within three months before the license expires, with your ID card, medical examination report, and photos ready. Driving with an expired license may result in fines or even revocation. Timely renewal ensures driving safety, and you might consider using a mobile app for appointment scheduling to save time and effort.
