What to Do If You're Caught Without a Driver's License?

[OBrooke]

If you forget to bring your driver's license and are caught by traffic police, you can first provide other valid identification documents, including ID card, military officer's certificate, passport, etc. The traffic police can check whether the vehicle owner has obtained a driver's license through the online system. Generally, as long as you are not driving without a license, the traffic police will not make things difficult for the vehicle owner. The relevant legal provisions are as follows: Forgetting to bring a driver's license cannot be considered as driving without a license; this is driving without carrying a license. However, if caught by traffic police, the vehicle will still be detained until the owner provides the driver's license for the vehicle to be returned. In addition, not carrying a driver's license may also result in a fine ranging from 20 to 200 yuan.

[LeBriella]

Last time I also encountered this situation. I was stopped by traffic police on the road, and when they checked my bag, they found I forgot my driver's license. I was a bit nervous at the time, but took a deep breath to stay calm and explained that I genuinely forgot it, offering to provide my name and ID number. They used their device to verify my license information, confirmed it was valid, and only issued a fine of 100 yuan without deducting points or impounding the vehicle. Later, I went to pay the fine and made it a habit to keep a copy of my license in the glove compartment. I'm sharing this to remind everyone that traffic regulations require carrying driving documents—don't be afraid of the hassle; it's best to develop a daily checking habit. In such situations, cooperation is key, as impulsive arguments can turn minor issues into major ones. After all, driving is about safety, and having all documents ready can save a lot of trouble.

[StBella]

Man, that's pretty awkward. I've been through it once too. Got pulled over on my way home from work, searched my pockets but couldn't find my license, almost thought something big was gonna happen. Just told the cops the reason straight up, they had me give my number to check the database, luckily it was on record and only got a 50-yuan fine. Lesson learned: stay chill, don't talk back, they're just doing their job. Next time, keep your license in a fixed spot in your wallet, saves the hassle. A small fine is no big deal, don't let it affect your driving safety. Recently I heard you can even store a digital copy of your license in a phone app now, makes it way more convenient to show when you're checked. The key is to learn some basic laws, know the consequences aren't serious, then you won't panic.

[VonJasper]

If you are checked without your driver's license, stay calm and honestly explain the situation to the police. They will verify your identity and check the authenticity of your license through the system. Typically, the outcome is just a fine of a few dozen yuan, possibly with some points deducted, but don't panic. Afterward, you simply need to pay the fine at the traffic police station or provide proof. Develop the habit of checking your documents before driving to prevent such situations. Carrying your license not only avoids trouble but also enhances your sense of responsibility. In short, this is a common issue, and handling it properly will resolve it without any problems.