What is the validity period of the driver's license after adding a driving category?
4 Answers
After adding a driving category, the validity period of the driver's license is as follows: No recalculation: After adding a permitted driving category and obtaining a new driver's license, the validity period of the license will not be recalculated. Scoring cycle: Additionally, the scoring cycle always starts from the initial issuance date of the original driver's license. Relevant information about adding a driving category to the license is as follows: Time limit: Those who have just obtained a driver's license (such as a motorcycle license) can only take other types of driver's license tests (for example, a car license) after one year. Notes: When registering for and taking the additional driving category test, you must bring your ID card and the previously obtained driver's license. Those who pass the test will be able to add the driving category.
I recently got my motorcycle Class D license added to my existing driver's license, and I was quite excited. However, after receiving the new license, I noticed that its expiration date remained exactly the same as the original Class C1 license issued in 2018, with a 6-year validity period and no changes at all. A friend at the DMV explained that adding a license class simply expands the types of vehicles you're permitted to drive, while the original expiration date stays unchanged. Typically, a driver's license validity period is calculated from the initial issuance date or the last renewal date, categorized into 6-year, 10-year, or permanent durations. The process of adding a license class only involves printing new permitted vehicle types on your license, without affecting the overall expiration date. So, remember to renew your license within 90 days before it expires, and don't let the excitement of adding a new license class make you forget about renewal, which could cause trouble. I also checked the regulations—only if your license is about to expire right after adding a new class will the validity period be updated during the renewal process.
As a veteran driver with over 20 years of experience, the validity period of your driver's license definitely remains unchanged after adding additional driving categories. The license duration is fixed from when you first obtained it. For example, when I added a D license to my C1, the validity period stayed the original 10 years without any change. The logic is simple - adding driving categories is like giving your license new functions without altering the basic rules. The standard validity periods are: 6 years for the first issuance, 10 years for renewal, and long-term for those over 50 years old. After adding categories, pay attention to your license expiration date and arrange medical exams and renewal procedures in advance to avoid travel restrictions. I've seen many people mistakenly think they need to change the validity period after adding categories - this is a misunderstanding. The core principle is simply ensuring your driving skills remain qualified.
I have a car and a motorcycle at home, and the validity period remains the same after adding a driving license. For example, if you add a D license to a C1 license, the date on the driver's license will not change, usually around 10 years. The validity period of the driver's license is set to regularly check physical condition and knowledge, and adding a driving license does not affect it. Renew the license on time to avoid fines.
