What to do if the driver's license renewal is expired?
2 Answers
What to do if the driver's license renewal period has passed: You can take the subject one exam, and the driver's license will be restored upon passing. The renewal of a driver's license can be processed 90 days in advance, but there is no time limit for the extension of a driver's license, as long as the driver's license is within the validity period. Additional information: 1. Article 23 of the 'Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China': The traffic management department of the public security organ shall, in accordance with the provisions of laws and administrative regulations, regularly inspect and verify motor vehicle driver's licenses. 2. Article 24 of the 'Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China': The traffic management department of the public security organ shall, in addition to imposing administrative penalties in accordance with the law, implement a cumulative scoring system for motor vehicle drivers who violate road traffic safety laws and regulations. For motor vehicle drivers whose cumulative score reaches the prescribed value, the traffic management department of the public security organ shall detain the motor vehicle driver's license, provide education on road traffic safety laws and regulations, and require them to retake the exam; those who pass the exam will have their motor vehicle driver's license returned. For motor vehicle drivers who comply with road traffic safety laws and regulations and have no cumulative score within one year, the inspection period of the motor vehicle driver's license may be extended. The specific measures shall be stipulated by the public security department of the State Council.
If your driver's license renewal has expired, you can no longer drive, otherwise you may face fines. You need to go to the local DMV as soon as possible to handle it—don’t delay. Typically, if the expiration is less than one year, you can directly renew it by bringing your ID card, a few one-inch bareheaded photos, and a medical examination certificate. The medical exam is usually done at a DMV-designated location, with simple vision and color blindness tests. If it has expired for more than one year but less than three, you may need to retake the theoretical exam (Subject 1). If it exceeds three years, the license becomes completely invalid, and you’ll have to reapply for a new driver's license. It’s recommended to go on a weekday when you’re free to avoid peak crowds. Make it a habit to regularly check the expiration date to prevent it from being overdue for too long. Safe driving comes first—don’t risk driving for temporary convenience. I’ve been in a similar situation myself, and taking prompt action is the safest approach.