What to Do If Caught by Traffic Police with an Expired Driver's License?
2 Answers
Driving with an expired driver's license will be treated as driving without a license. The traffic management department of the public security organ will impose penalties, which may include detention for up to 15 days. Within a one-year period, you can take the expired driver's license and a physical examination certificate to reapply for a replacement. Drivers should apply for a license renewal at the vehicle management office of the issuing authority or elsewhere within 90 days before the expiration date of their motor vehicle driver's license.
My driver's license expired without renewal, and I got pulled over by traffic police. I've actually encountered this situation once before. Back then, I had just returned from working out of town and was too busy to remember going to the DMV to update my license. While driving on the highway, I was stopped, and the officer sternly asked to check my documents. I immediately pulled over, proactively handed over my expired license and ID card, honestly admitted it was expired, and explained that I wasn't intentionally neglecting it but had messed up my work schedule. The officer was somewhat understanding, but still fined me around 200 yuan as per regulations and issued a warning point. This was a profound lesson, so I went straight to get a new license and now set monthly phone reminders to check my documents' status. Remember, driving with an expired license counts as unlicensed driving—not only can you be fined, but your car might be towed, and worse, insurance won't cover accidents. Make it a habit to renew your license regularly for safety and peace of mind—never take it lightly.
