What should I do if my driver's license expires?
A driver's license is a legal certificate for driving a motor vehicle. Once it expires, it needs to be dealt with promptly, otherwise you may face fines or other legal consequences. This article will introduce in detail the steps, required materials, and precautions after your driver's license expires to help you solve the problem quickly.
1. Legal Consequences of Expired Driving License

Continuing to drive after the driver's license has expired is considered driving without a license. According to the "Road Traffic Safety Law", you may face the following penalties:
| Expiration time | Punishment measures |
|---|---|
| Expires within 1 year | Certificates can be renewed normally without penalty |
| Expiration 1-3 years | Need to retake Subject 1 exam |
| Expired for more than 3 years | Need to retake driver's license |
2. Steps to handle an expired driver’s license
If your driver's license has expired, you can follow these steps:
| steps | Specific operations |
|---|---|
| 1. Confirm expiration time | Check the validity period on your driver’s license to confirm the expiration date |
| 2. Prepare materials | ID card, original driving license, physical examination report, photos, etc. |
| 3. Submit application | Go to the vehicle management office or submit an application for license renewal through the online platform |
| 4. Pay fees | Pay the renewal fee according to local regulations |
| 5. Get a new certificate | Receive a new driver's license after passing the review |
3. List of required materials
When renewing your driver's license, you usually need to prepare the following materials:
| Material name | Remarks |
|---|---|
| Original and copy of ID card | Must be within the validity period |
| Original driver's license | Expired driving license must be surrendered |
| Physical examination report | Requires physical examination at designated hospital |
| Recent bareheaded photos | Usually 1-inch color photo with white background |
| Application form | Can be picked up at the vehicle management office or downloaded online |
4. Online application process
Currently, many regions support online driver’s license renewal. The specific process is as follows:
| steps | Operating Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1. Log in to the platform | Via the traffic management 12123 APP or the official website of the local vehicle management office |
| 2. Fill in the information | Upload ID card, driver's license photos, etc. |
| 3. Submit application | Submit after confirming that the information is correct |
| 4. Payment of fees | Pay the renewal fee online |
| 5. Pick up by mail | The new certificate will be mailed to the designated address |
5. Things to note
When applying for driver's license renewal, you need to pay attention to the following points:
1.Handle in time: After your driver’s license expires, you should renew it as soon as possible to avoid more complicated processes due to delays.
2.Physical examination requirements: The physical examination report is usually valid for 6 months and must be submitted within the validity period.
3.cost difference: The fees for certificate replacement may vary slightly in different regions. It is recommended to check the local standards in advance.
4.temporary driving permit: During the license renewal period, if you need to drive a vehicle, you can apply for a temporary driving permit.
5.Handling in another place: Some cities support certificate renewal in other places, but local conditions must be met.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I still drive after my driver’s license expires?
A: No. Driving without a license after the driver's license expires will result in fines or other penalties if caught.
Q: How long does it take to renew a certificate?
A: It usually takes 3-7 working days. The specific time depends on the work efficiency of the local vehicle management office.
Q: Can I entrust someone else to do it for me?
A: Yes, but a power of attorney and the original ID card of the agent are required.
Summary
After your driver's license expires, you should go through the renewal procedures in a timely manner to avoid more complicated processes or legal risks caused by delays. Whether you apply offline or online, as long as you prepare the required materials and follow the process, you can successfully obtain a new driver's license. I hope this article can provide you with practical help!
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