What to Do When the Vehicle License Expires?
2 Answers
The handling method for an expired vehicle license: You need to go to the vehicle management office immediately to reapply, and make sure to settle all traffic violations before going. The annual inspection is divided into two situations. One is for models exempt from annual inspection, where the traffic management department does not need to inspect the vehicle but only needs to review the inspection application form, ID card, vehicle license, compulsory traffic insurance certificate, and vehicle and vessel tax proof. Bring these documents to the designated location for processing. Once approved, a new date will be marked on the vehicle license, and the annual inspection label will be issued. For non-exempt models, you need to drive the vehicle to the inspection station for a vehicle check. After passing, you can go to the designated window to apply for the annual inspection label and update the validity period of the vehicle license.
That time my vehicle license expired was quite a hassle, but I solved it by driving directly to the local DMV for a replacement. Just bring the original ID card, a copy of the vehicle owner's proof, fill out an application form, pay a small fee of a few dozen yuan, and you can get the new license in two or three days. Never drive on the road during the expired period to avoid being stopped by traffic police, fined over 200 yuan, and possibly having points deducted, which could also affect insurance claims. It's best to handle it on a weekday morning when there are fewer people and shorter queues, avoiding peak traffic hours. If it's been expired for more than six months, you might need to provide an additional vehicle inspection report, so acting early saves trouble. I recommend checking the vehicle license date during the annual vehicle inspection and setting a phone reminder a month in advance to handle it. After developing this habit, I never worry about document issues anymore—safe travel is what really matters.
