Ministry introduces e-license pilot program

A pilot program for electronic vehicle registration licenses will start in 60 cities on July 1, the Ministry of Public Security announced on Thursday.

The e-license program, a significant step toward streamlining traffic management services, is one of eight new measures introduced by the ministry to enhance traffic management, simplify license application procedures and optimize urban traffic flow.

The ministry estimates the reforms will benefit hundreds of millions of people and save motorists about 3 billion yuan ($430 million).

"As of May, China had over 440 million motor vehicles and 530 million drivers," said Wang Qiang, director of the ministry's Traffic Management Bureau. "We recognize the public's growing demand for efficient and intelligent traffic management services."

Since 2017, the ministry has implemented over 100 reform measures, resulting in cost savings exceeding 100 billion yuan for individuals and businesses. Additionally, over 100 million people have benefited from convenient services related to vehicle inspections, cross-provincial certification applications and license replacements.

"We've actively promoted the use of electronic licenses in traffic management," Wang said. "This includes the complete digitization of vehicle inspection marks and driving licenses."

Authorities have issued nearly 1.48 billion electronic inspection marks and distributed electronic driving licenses to 250 million drivers to date. The e-license application process during the pilot project is straightforward — people can apply directly through the ministry's Jiaoguan 12123 mobile app. The app also allows vehicle owners to authorize others to use their e-licenses for specific tasks.

To achieve nationwide validity and broader adoption, Wang emphasized that the ministry will focus on enhancing information and support systems and expanding the means to apply for e-licenses, with the goal of achieving nationwide implementation by the end of this year.

E-licenses offer several advantages, including verification of dynamic information about such matters as vehicle inspections, mortgages, traffic violations and accident processing in real time.

Also starting July 1, car owners selling vehicles to scrap yards can obtain electronic deregistration certificates through the Jiaoguan 12123 app.

People can also opt for door-to-door delivery services when replacing or renewing their license plates. Courier services will collect application materials and deliver the new plates upon approval.