What to Do If the Driver's License Expires Without Timely Renewal?
2 Answers
When the driver's license expires, it is necessary to promptly visit the vehicle management office for renewal. If the license has been expired for less than 12 months, the renewal process can proceed as usual. However, if it has been expired for more than one year but less than three years, the driver must retake the subject one exam to renew the license. Upon passing the exam, the driver can obtain the new license. If the license has been expired for more than three years, the driver will need to reapply for a new driver's license. The required documents for renewing an expired driver's license are as follows: 1. Documents: the old driver's license; the driver's identity proof and a copy. 2. Certificates: "Motor Vehicle Driver's License Application Form," "Physical Condition Certificate," and proof of license expiration and age-related renewal. 3. Photos: three recent, bareheaded, front-facing, half-length color photos with a white background (one-inch size). For those who meet the renewal requirements, the process is usually completed within one working day.
I once encountered the issue of forgetting to renew my driver's license, which had been expired for almost half a year. The first thing to remember is not to drive on the road, as it's illegal and could result in a fine of 200 yuan. In case of an accident, insurance claims might also be difficult. Quickly go to the local vehicle management office to handle it. Just bring your ID card, old driver's license, recent white-background photos, and a medical examination report. If the license has been expired for less than a year, you can usually renew it directly. If it's been over one year but less than two, you'll need to retake the theory test (Subject 1). If it's been over two years, you'll have to retake all the tests from scratch. I regretted not setting a reminder alarm back then, but now I make sure to renew it a month before it expires every three years. The key is safety first—driving without a valid license is risky, and you bear full responsibility. The renewal fee is quite affordable, around a few dozen yuan, and it takes less than half an hour to complete. In short, don’t delay; handling it promptly saves trouble and keeps you legal.
