
You can drive on the highway at any time after obtaining your driver's license. However, the first 12 months after a motor vehicle driver initially applies for a driver's license or adds a permitted vehicle type is considered the probationary period. During this probationary period, when driving on the highway, the driver must be accompanied by someone who has held a driver's license for the same or a higher vehicle type for more than 3 years. Regulations for novice drivers: During the probationary period, when driving a motor vehicle, a uniform-style probationary sign must be affixed or hung at the rear of the vehicle; during the probationary period, drivers are not allowed to operate buses, passenger vehicles for hire, or vehicles such as police cars, fire trucks, ambulances, rescue vehicles, or vehicles carrying explosives, flammable and explosive chemicals, highly toxic or radioactive materials, and other hazardous substances; the motor vehicle being driven must not tow a trailer. Precautions for driving on the highway: Before entering the highway, check the wear on your car tires and whether there are stone particles in the tread grooves. If present, remove them immediately, as high-speed driving can easily cause a tire blowout. The dangers caused by a tire blowout at high speed can be fatal.

Some people can't wait to hit the highway for a spin as soon as they get their driver's license, but as someone who's been through it, I believe safety comes first. During the probationary period, you really can't drive alone on the highway—it's the rule. Last year when I got my C1 license, I found an experienced driver to accompany me for practice in the first month. When driving at 120 km/h on the highway, I was genuinely nervous, my heart almost jumping out of my chest. Fortunately, the accompanying instructor reminded me to maintain a safe distance and avoid frequent lane changes, which helped me gradually adapt. New drivers lack experience, and the high speeds on the highway can make emergencies feel overwhelming without guidance. Don’t rush to show off your new car—spend a few weeks practicing on regular roads first, and only venture onto the highway once you're comfortable. The purpose of the probationary period is to help us build a solid foundation, not to take risks for momentary thrills.

From the perspective of traffic regulations, the probation period for a new driver's license is generally 12 months. During this period, driving on the highway is allowed, but with one condition: there must be a person with the same type of driver's license for more than three years sitting in the passenger seat as a supervisor. I once witnessed a friend being caught by traffic police for driving alone on the highway during the probation period, resulting in a direct deduction of 6 points and a fine of several hundred yuan—a huge loss. The law sets this rule mainly because new drivers are not yet proficient in highway control and are prone to accidents. It is recommended that all new drivers download a traffic regulation app to check the rules or read the driving manual, so as not to overlook details in the excitement. Safety is no small matter. Once the probation period is over, you can drive freely.

After getting my driver's license, I was so excited that I couldn't wait to hit the highway and speed. But all my friends stopped me, saying it's best for beginners to avoid highways at first. They suggested I practice more in the city, getting familiar with gear shifting and braking, and only attempt the highway when I feel confident—and always with someone accompanying me. A few weeks later, I arranged to go with an experienced driver who taught me how to maintain safe distances and handle overtaking maneuvers on the highway. This experience helped me improve rapidly. Don't worry about missing opportunities; taking it slow is safer.

Don't think that getting a driver's license means you can freely drive on the highway—I've learned the hard way! During my probationary period, I was caught driving alone, which resulted in points deducted, fines, and nearly caused an accident. New drivers react slower, and with heavy traffic and high speeds on the highway, a slight lapse in attention can lead to a rear-end collision. Take my advice: the cost of breaking the rules is high, so don’t take it lightly. Follow the rules, find a companion, and you can enjoy driving safely.

Before hitting the highway, don't just focus on looking cool—proper preparation is key. Every time I drive on the highway, I first check my vehicle: tire pressure, functioning lights, brake responsiveness, and I always bring water to prevent fatigue. Although you can drive during the probationary period, you must have an experienced driver guiding you. When changing lanes on the highway, be decisive—don't hesitate, as new drivers often make mistakes due to indecision. After practicing on city roads a few times, accompanied highway driving helped me learn rhythm control, and now I handle it with ease.


