How to renew a driver's license
Q: I currently hold a Shanghai driver's license that is due to expire soon. How can I renew the license, and can I do it online or do I need to visit an office?
A: In response to your inquiry, here are the key points for renewing your driver's license:
The earliest renewal date is 90 days before your license expires. Even if your license has lapsed for up to a year, renewal is still possible.
The required documents for renewal are as follows:
• Your identity card (or passport for foreigners)
• A valid visa or residence permit exceeding three months
• The "registration form of temporary residence" from the city's public security department or authorized guest houses
Foreigners with a permanent residence ID card must present this card when applying for a driver's license.
Additionally, you will need:
• A certificate of your physical condition
• A photo of yourself
The physical condition certificate can be processed—and the photo taken—on-site at the municipal public security traffic administrative bureau.
Please submit all necessary documents to the municipal public security traffic administrative bureau or the driver management window at each district's traffic police detachment for license renewal.
Alternatively, you can choose online renewal through the 12123 app after undergoing a physical examination at the city's designated hospitals.
Source: Shanghai Municipal Public Security Traffic Administrative Bureau