What to Do If You Drive Without Your Driver's License and Vehicle Registration Certificate?
2 Answers
If you do not carry your driver's license, regardless of whether the driver has committed any traffic violations, the driver is not allowed to continue driving the vehicle. The traffic management department of the public security authority shall impound the motor vehicle and notify the driver to provide the driver's license. Depending on the situation of the driver providing the license, the following measures will be taken: 1. If the driver provides the license and there are no other violations during driving: a warning or a fine ranging from 20 to 200 yuan will be issued, and the motor vehicle will be promptly returned. 2. If the driver provides the license but has committed other violations during driving: penalties will be imposed based on the violations and the failure to carry the license, and the motor vehicle will be promptly returned. 3. If the driver fails to provide the license: penalties for driving without a license will be imposed.
When I realized I forgot my driver's license and vehicle registration while driving, my heart skipped a beat, but I immediately reminded myself not to panic. First, I found a safe spot like a roadside parking area to pull over, engaged the handbrake, and turned on the hazard lights to alert others. Then, I took out my phone and opened the Traffic Management 12123 app to check, as electronic documents can sometimes suffice in certain areas. If that didn't work, I planned to call a family member to bring the documents or wait for the police to arrive and explain the situation honestly—first-time offenders usually only face a small fine and a warning. I knew it was crucial to handle the situation promptly to avoid worse consequences if caught later. This incident taught me a lesson, and now I make it a habit to check my wallet or glove compartment for all necessary documents before getting in the car, ensuring they're always in a fixed, easily accessible spot. Safe driving relies on careful preparation to avoid unnecessary risks and trouble.
