Can I drive on the road as soon as I get my driver's license?
3 Answers
Generally, you can start driving immediately after obtaining your driver's license, but there are the following considerations: 1. Time: The first 12 months after a motor vehicle driver initially applies for a motor vehicle driver's license or adds a permitted vehicle type is the probationary period. 2. Display probationary signs: During the probationary period, a uniform probationary sign should be affixed or hung at the rear of the vehicle. 3. Do not drive special vehicles: During the probationary period, you are not allowed to drive buses, commercial passenger vehicles, police cars, fire trucks, ambulances, engineering rescue vehicles on duty, or motor vehicles carrying explosives, flammable and explosive chemicals, highly toxic or radioactive hazardous materials; the motor vehicle you drive must not tow a trailer. 4. Do not drive alone on highways: When driving a motor vehicle on highways during the probationary period, you should be accompanied by a driver who has held a driver's license for the corresponding or higher vehicle type for more than three years. The above restrictions do not apply when driving a motor vehicle of the originally permitted vehicle type.
I was so happy the day I got my driver's license—finally, I could drive on my own. However, once I actually hit the road, I realized it was completely different from driving school practice. There were so many cars and people, traffic lights changed quickly, and my palms were sweaty the first time I drove alone. New drivers must remember that the first year after obtaining a license is a probationary period, during which you cannot drive on highways alone; you must be accompanied by an experienced driver with at least three years of driving experience. And don’t think passing the road test means everything is settled—sudden lane changes by electric bikes or pedestrians running red lights can easily lead to accidents if your reaction speed isn’t fast enough. It’s best to familiarize yourself with the roads around your neighborhood first and only venture farther once you’ve truly adapted.
A driver's license is just a permit to drive; whether you can actually handle the road depends on your real skills. When I first started driving, I was especially afraid of changing lanes—I'd check the rearview mirror for ages before making a move. Thinking back now, it still makes me nervous. A reminder for new drivers: if you accumulate 12 penalty points during your probationary period, your license will be revoked, and you'll have to retake the test. This is no joke. I recommend familiarizing yourself with the vehicle's controls in advance, such as the positions of the windshield wipers and light switches, to avoid panicking in the rain. Be extra cautious when driving at night, as poor visibility can lead to misjudgments. Don't rush into long-distance trips—spend two or three months driving in the city first, accumulating at least 1,000 kilometers of experience.
