TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — To better manage drivers deemed unfit, the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) on Thursday (Aug. 15) announced regulatory amendments that will require high-risk drivers to be issued short-term licenses ranging from one to six years based on the severity of their violations. 

Previously, as of July 1, 2013, new and existing drivers were generally exempt from renewing their licenses every six years. However, to strengthen the management of high-risk drivers, the Ministry of Transportation announced revisions to the Road Traffic Security Rules (道路交通安全規則) and other regulations stipulating time limits for renewed licenses.

Depending on the severity of their violations, drivers will be issued short-term licenses valid for one, two, three, or six years. Under the new system, the six-year probation period for license management will be reinstated for these drivers.

For those whose licenses have been suspended for less than one year, a six-year short-term license will be issued. Those with suspensions over one year will receive a three-year license, and those whose licenses were revoked due to traffic violations need to pass a reexamination to receive a two-year license.

Drivers must complete traffic safety courses and pay off any outstanding fines before a new short-term license can be issued. 

This new policy will take effect on Oct. 31. It is estimated that this new policy will affect around 73,000 people.

The MOTC said if a driver receives another suspension or revocation on a short-term license, the six-year probation period will reset. If no further suspensions or revocations occur after the probation period, these drivers can renew their licenses which are valid until the age of 75.

If a driver obtains a professional or higher-class license within the six-year probation period, the expiration date should align with the original short-term license validity.