How is the validity period of a driver's license calculated? An article explaining the validity period calculation rules and precautions in detail
Recently, the calculation method of driving license validity period has become a hot topic on the Internet, and many car owners have questions about the new regulations and specific algorithms. This article will combine the hot discussions on the Internet in the past 10 days, analyze the calculation rules of driver's license validity period in the form of structured data, and attach answers to frequently asked questions.
1. Basic rules for driving license validity period

According to the "Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driving Licenses", the validity period of a driver's license is divided into two situations: first application and renewal:
| Driver's license type | first validity period | Validity period after certificate renewal |
|---|---|---|
| C1/C2 small car | 6 years | 10 years (no record of deducting 12 points) |
| Large bus/tractor | 6 years | 6 years |
| motorcycle | 6 years | 10 years (no record of deducting 12 points) |
2. Validity period starts from
There are two major misunderstandings in calculating the starting date of the driver's license validity period, which require special attention:
| Common misunderstandings | Correct way to calculate |
|---|---|
| Calculated starting from registration of driving school | toDate of first receipt of certificateSubject to (marked on the back page of the driver’s license) |
| Calculated by calendar year | Accurate to the year, month and day of the date of receipt of the certificate (if the certificate is received on August 1, 2023, it will expire on August 1, 2029) |
3. Handling special situations
Three special situations that have been discussed frequently recently:
| situation | Processing method | Legal basis |
|---|---|---|
| Failure to renew the certificate after the expiration date | The certificate can be renewed normally within 1 year; the certificate must be retaken after 1-3 years; the certificate must be canceled after 3 years. | Ministry of Public Security Order No. 162 |
| Overseas driving license replacement | The validity period of the first license renewal after returning to the country is calculated based on the date of issuance of the overseas driver's license. | "Motor Vehicle Driving License Business Work Specifications" |
| Military and Police Driving License Conversion | The first validity period after conversion is unified to 6 years. | "Measures for exchanging military driver's license for local driver's license" |
4. Answers to hot questions
Combined with the five most popular issues recently discussed on the Internet:
1.Q: How long before the driver's license expires can I apply for renewal?
A: Before the validity period expiresWithin 90 daysYou can apply now (many places have opened online application channels)
2.Q: How long is the validity period of the physical examination report when renewing the certificate?
A: Physical examination certificate issued by county-level medical institutionValid within 6 months
3.Q: How to deal with expired driver's license during the epidemic?
A: According to the new regulations in 2023, if the renewal of certificate is delayed due to the epidemic, it can be extended toBefore December 31, 2023reissue
4.Q: What is the difference in validity period for drivers over 60 years old?
A: After reaching the age of 60, all driver’s license types become1 year validity, need to submit a physical examination certificate every year
5.Q: How is the validity period of the electronic driver's license calculated?
A: It is completely the same as the physical driver’s license, but you need to pay attention to some provincial requirements.Within the validity period of the physical certificateYou can apply for the electronic version
5. Important reminder
According to the latest statistics from the traffic management department:
| risky behavior | Proportion | Consequences |
|---|---|---|
| Driving with an expired license | 37.2% | Penalty for driving without a license (a fine of 200-2,000 yuan, and a possible 15-day detention) |
| Not carrying a valid driver’s license with you | 28.5% | 1 point deducted + a fine of 20-200 yuan (electronic driver's license can be used as supplementary proof) |
It is recommended that car owners set up through the "Traffic Control 12123" APPCertificate expiration reminder, and regularly check the validity period information marked on the back page of the driver's license. If you find that the information is incorrect, you should immediately go to the issuing authority to complete the correction procedures.
The content of this article is based on the latest regulations of the Ministry of Public Security and the implementation rules of local vehicle management offices. The specific policies are subject to the interpretation of the local traffic management department. Keeping your driver's license valid is not only a legal requirement, but also an important guarantee for safe driving.
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