What to Do If Your Driver's License Expires?
3 Answers
If expired within one year, you can apply for a renewal following the normal procedure. The driver's license will be automatically revoked by the system, but you can regain your driving eligibility after passing the subject one exam. You will have to reapply and take the driver's license test again.
My friend recently got fined for an expired driver's license, which made him realize this matter shouldn't be delayed. There are three scenarios for expired licenses: within one year, just go directly to the DMV for renewal (don't drive on the road); one to two years expired requires retaking the written test; over two years means direct cancellation. For renewal, bring your ID card, old license, and 1-inch white-background photo, first get a physical exam at designated hospitals (mainly vision and color blindness tests). Then fill out an application at the DMV and pay a 10-yuan fee - you'll get the new license on the spot. Important reminder: now you can handle this online via the Traffic Management 12123 App - upload your medical report to skip the hospital visit. I suggest setting a phone reminder 90 days before expiration to avoid fines and points like my friend.
Driving license expiration is often overlooked, but the consequences can be troublesome. From my experience, once you discover it's expired, stop driving immediately. Getting caught driving without a license results in a 2000 yuan fine plus 15 days detention. The renewal process isn't too complicated: First, get a driver's medical exam at a hospital, costing about 30-50 yuan, with focus on corrected vision. Remember to wear dark-colored clothes for the photo, no smiling or jewelry. With all materials ready, go to the DMV to take a number and queue. During off-peak times, it can be done in half an hour. You can also renew it in another city, but you'll need to transfer to the local DMV system first. For urgent matters, try applying for expedited mail delivery via the 12123 app - spending an extra 20 yuan on shipping saves time. For safety, regularly photograph the expiration date on your license's auxiliary page and store it in your phone for automatic reminders.
