Can I rent a car during the probationary period of my driver's license?
2 Answers
You can rent a car from a rental company as long as you have a driver's license. However, you cannot rent vehicle models that do not comply with the regulations of your driver's license, except for the test drive models. Additionally, you are not allowed to drive on highways during the probationary period unless accompanied by a person with more than three years of driving experience in the passenger seat. Legal basis: Article 74 of the "Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driver's Licenses" stipulates that the first 12 months after a motor vehicle driver initially applies for a driver's license or adds a permitted driving model is the probationary period. Those who newly obtain a driver's license for large buses, tractors, city buses, medium-sized buses, or large trucks must, within 30 days after the end of the probationary period, take a knowledge test on road traffic safety laws and regulations, safe and civilized driving, emergency handling, etc., and receive no less than half an hour of traffic accident case warning education. 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.
When I first got my driver's license during the probationary period, I was also eager to rent a car for a road trip. However, after visiting several car rental companies like Shenzhou and Avis, I was told there were strict rules: drivers with less than one year of experience or those still in the probationary period were either completely denied rental or had to pay an additional young driver fee, sometimes even requiring expensive insurance. This is mainly due to safety concerns, as new drivers lack experience and are more prone to accidents, making insurance companies wary of potential claims. My suggestion is to gain more experience by driving family cars during the probationary period. If you really need to rent, try smaller companies or go during the off-season to see if they can make exceptions. Remember, avoid speeding and fatigue driving. Once the probationary period is over, renting a car becomes much easier. Safety always comes first.
