What to Do If You Get Pulled Over Without Your Driver's License?

[Brynlee]

Failure to carry a driver's license may result in a warning or a fine ranging from 20 to 200 yuan, with the timely return of the motor vehicle. Article 19 of the Road Traffic Safety Law stipulates that driving a motor vehicle requires legally obtaining a driver's license. Drivers must operate vehicles within the license's designated categories and carry their driver's license at all times when driving. No entity or individual other than the traffic management department of the public security authority may confiscate or retain a driver's license. Relevant information about driver's licenses includes: 1. Introduction: The People's Republic of China Motor Vehicle Driver's License, commonly referred to as a driver's license or 'driver's permit,' is a mandatory certification for motor vehicle operators under Chinese law. 2. Examination Content: The test consists of three parts: traffic regulations and related knowledge, field driving, and road driving (including safe and civilized driving).

[Rylee]

Oh I had this exact situation last time - driving back from a friend's gathering when I encountered a temporary checkpoint. Out of habit I checked my pockets only to realize I'd left my driver's license on the office desk. My heart skipped a beat but I stayed calm, pulled over, turned off the engine, rolled down the window and politely explained 'Officer I sincerely apologize for forgetting it in today's rush'. Then I proactively provided my ID number. He nodded, verified my license validity through the radio system, and just gave a verbal warning to remember next time. Since then I've developed a routine to check my wallet for documents daily, and recommend keeping a photocopy in the glove compartment as backup. Because such small oversights could lead to fines or even affect future vehicle inspections - good habits ensure worry-free driving.

[LaPeyton]

As someone who often drives to explore mountains and rivers, I sometimes get lazy and leave my documents in my backpack when traveling. That time at the highway exit checkpoint, I patted my pockets only to find them empty. I smiled at the officer and said, 'Buddy, this one's on me for being careless.' Then I quickly pulled out my phone, opened the local traffic app with my e-license, and let him scan the QR code—problem solved in seconds. Honestly, in this smart car era, having backups is key. While urban areas support digital versions, I'd recommend keeping paper copies or photos handy for rural trips. I even set up a smart alarm in my car to remind me about document checks—just one of those little driving hacks to keep the journey smooth.

[DiJace]

Twenty years of driving experience has taught me that when encountering a traffic check without carrying my license, the best approach is to maintain a cooperative attitude, pull over, patiently explain the situation, and provide supplementary identification. In most cases, after the police verify the details, they will only give a verbal warning. Avoid arguing to prevent unnecessary trouble. Develop a habit of always placing your driver's license in a fixed spot in your wallet.