Electronic Driver's License and the Traffic Management 12123 App
Traffic Management 12123 (交管12123) is the official mobile app of China’s traffic police. The national licensing provisions require police to run an internet traffic safety service platform, and the 12123 app is the mobile way to reach it. Many everyday driver tasks can be done there. This guide explains what the official sources say about it and about the electronic driver’s license.
The app is in Chinese. Whether registration works with a foreign passport, and which functions are open to foreign users, can vary by city and over time. Our sources do not state this. Ask your vehicle administration office whether you can register and what is needed.
What the provisions say about online services
- Police must use an internet traffic safety service platform to receive applications submitted online and to verify the applicant’s identity.
- Local police must publish information online so people can look up rules, check their license status, traffic violations and points, and download forms.
- Where information is shared between agencies, applicants do not have to submit certain documents in paper form.
- Offices may recognize electronic signatures, seals and electronic certificates.
What you can do with the Traffic Management 12123 app
The Beijing government’s English pages and the provisions mention these functions:
| Task | What the sources say |
|---|---|
| Book driving tests | Exam booking is done through the nationwide booking system, including the 12123 app |
| Renew your license | Registered users can apply for renewal through the platform or the app |
| Authorize an agent online | If you authorize an agent through the app, no paper authorization letter is needed |
| Get the learning certificate | After passing Subject 1, you can print or download the learning certificate online |
| Apply for an electronic license | After renewal, log in to your personal 12123 account to apply for the electronic license |
| Check points and violations | Local police must provide ways to check; the app is the usual route |
| Capacity test locations (age 70+) | The app lists the addresses of the theory test rooms |
| Hotline | Beijing gives +86-10-12123 for inquiries |
Beijing also notes that drivers aged 60 or over may use a relative’s or friend’s 12123 account to complete renewal for them.
The electronic driver’s license
The provisions say that police must make driver’s licenses available in electronic form. A driver can apply for an electronic version on the internet traffic safety service platform. The electronic license has the same legal effect as the paper license.
Beijing’s renewal page explains the practical points:
- After you renew your paper license, log in to your personal 12123 account and apply for a new electronic license.
- If you already had an electronic license, apply for it again after renewal.
You should still keep your paper license safe. Some situations, such as a roadside check, may be easier with the card in hand if your phone has no signal or battery. The rules say you must keep your license with you while driving.
Electronic learning certificate
For first-time applicants, the driving learning certificate can be paper or electronic with equal effect. It is valid for three years. You can print or download it from the online platform. See the three subjects explained.
What still needs the office
- Taking the written test and any driving tests (in person at a test center).
- Medical certificates, unless the information is already shared electronically with the police.
- Cases where the office suspects a problem: if an online application for replacement or renewal looks suspicious, the office can turn it into an in-person application.
Tips for foreign residents
- Ask the office staff when you apply whether you can register your passport in the 12123 app.
- Keep your accommodation registration up to date. The system uses it to verify your identity.
- Use the app to keep an eye on the dates when your license, medical certificate and learning certificate expire.
- Do not give your 12123 login to strangers or “agents”.