Target for Driver's License Renewal: 4.9 Million… Concerns Over Increased Wait Times at Year-End

This year, approximately 4.9 million people are eligible to renew their driver's licenses, marking the highest number in the past 15 years.

This figure is an increase of about 1 million compared to last year’s 3.89 million, raising concerns that if all eligible individuals rush to renew at year-end, wait times at the driver's license testing centers could significantly increase.

According to data released by the National Police Agency on the 6th, the total number of individuals eligible for driver's license renewal this year is precisely 4,871,960.

So far, only about 37% of the eligible drivers have completed their renewal, totaling 1,819,839, which leaves over 3 million individuals still postponing their renewal.

Possibility of Waiting Over 4 Hours at Year-End Renewals

The National Police Agency has warned that serious congestion is expected if renewals are postponed until year-end.

Last December, due to the influx of individuals rushing to renew their driver's licenses, it was reported that, on average, 2,000 people were waiting over 4 hours each hour at the testing centers.

In contrast, as of June this year, the average wait time for renewal was relatively short, about 20 minutes.

A spokesperson from the National Police Agency stated, "The number of eligible individuals has increased compared to last year, and we expect wait times at year-end to be longer than last year." They urged individuals to renew their licenses immediately, emphasizing that with a 25% increase in eligible individuals this year, congestion at year-end is expected to be even more severe.

Various Renewal Methods and Precautions

Driver's license renewal can be applied for at 27 driver's license testing centers and police stations nationwide, and it can be conveniently processed within 20 minutes using the Korea Road Traffic Authority's Integrated Civil Service website for Safe Driving.

Additionally, prospective applicants can check the expected wait times at each testing center in advance, allowing them to plan their visit efficiently.

Failing to renew within the designated period can not only result in fines but also prevent individuals from using the 'Driver's License Authenticity Verification Service' currently available in the financial sector, leading to further inconveniences. Therefore, it is advisable for eligible individuals to complete the renewal process as soon as possible to avoid year-end congestion.

Image source: News1