What to Do If You Are Stopped by Traffic Police Without Carrying Your Vehicle License?
4 Answers
1. Online Verification: You can choose to present your vehicle license and ID card registration to the traffic police. As long as the traffic police verify through the system that you possess a valid driver's license, this is acceptable. 2. Electronic Driver's License: You can apply for an electronic driver's license via WeChat or the 12123 traffic management app to handle emergencies where you forget your physical license. However, electronic driver's licenses are not widely supported across all cities. Some traffic police in smaller or medium-sized cities may not recognize the validity of electronic licenses, so it's advisable to check in advance whether your city supports electronic driver's licenses.
After driving for so many years, I occasionally forget to bring my vehicle license. That time when I was pulled over by the traffic police, I immediately pulled over to the side, honestly explained that I was in a hurry and overlooked it, without making any excuses. The traffic police usually give a lecture, issue a ticket, and ask me to handle it at the traffic police station. When I get there, I bring my ID card or car key to prove my identity. After they check the system and confirm, they often just fine me a few dozen yuan and that's it—pretty straightforward. Now, to avoid repeating the same mistake, I keep my vehicle license fixed in the glove compartment or take a photo and save it on my phone. It's even more convenient when I have the traffic management app. Everyone should develop the habit of checking in advance when driving, especially during long trips when changing clothes or grabbing things can easily lead to forgetting. If you get checked, stay calm, don’t argue or panic—safety first, and just handle the small issue properly.
This happened during my novice driver period, and I was really panicked at the time. After pulling over and taking deep breaths, I directly told the traffic officer that I forgot to bring my documents. He checked my driver's license and issued a ticket, saying I could handle it later at the traffic police station. When dealing with it, I brought all the supporting materials, like photos of my vehicle license on my phone or records from relevant apps, and they sorted it out quickly—just a small fine with no points deducted. Since then, I always check my pockets and the fixed spots in my car before setting off, and I've also installed a traffic management app as a precaution. This experience reminded me that safe driving isn't just about driving well; managing your documents is also important, especially during the morning rush when you're in a hurry to drop off the kids and things can easily go wrong. Cooperate with the authorities, learn from the mistake, and it'll be fine.
When stopped by traffic police, simply say you forgot to bring the vehicle license and cooperate without resistance. They will direct you to a designated location for processing. Bring your ID or use the electronic version in the app - usually it's just a fine and education. Daily prevention is more crucial. I take photos to store on my phone or keep it in a fixed spot in the front passenger storage compartment. The traffic management app can replace the paper version in many cases, but it's best to develop the habit of checking to avoid delays. Don't panic over such minor mistakes - just park safely and handle the situation calmly.
