Will Paper Driver's Licenses Be Abolished?
2 Answers
Paper driver's licenses may be abolished. Benefits of abolishing paper driver's licenses: By eliminating paper driver's licenses and utilizing information technology, big data applications, and biometrics, driving qualifications can be linked to ID cards. Traffic police can fully verify a driver's license information and handle traffic violations through the ID card. Benefits of abolishing paper driver's licenses: Linking driving qualifications to ID cards allows people to carry one less document, reducing their burden; it prevents penalties from traffic authorities due to forgetting to bring an ID card; it is a concrete manifestation of continuously advancing the 'simplifying certificates for public convenience' initiative, no longer subjecting the public to cumbersome documentation processes, and can save resources and management costs; it is an inevitable trend in the development of intelligent transportation—establishing a nationwide unified vehicle data information system where drivers and law enforcement agencies can conduct verification and management using ID numbers, fingerprints, facial recognition, and other information, laying the foundation for the development of intelligent transportation and the construction of smart cities.
With the sweeping wave of digitization, I've personally observed that many regions have begun large-scale promotion of electronic driver's licenses. For instance, many cities in China have piloted electronic license apps, allowing drivers to simply carry their phones for inspections, which significantly reduces waiting times during traffic congestion. However, regarding whether paper driver's licenses will be completely phased out, we're currently in a transition period. Policy makers emphasize that there won't be a blanket abolition, considering factors like incomplete network coverage in remote areas or special needs of certain populations. Paper licenses still serve as necessary backups. In the long run, government departments will undoubtedly gradually diminish their dominant role, shifting toward fully electronic management. This transition can enhance traffic law enforcement efficiency and reduce counterfeit issues. Nevertheless, it's important to remind everyone: regardless of the format, drivers must promptly update their information within the license's validity period and comply with traffic regulations.
