How can I drive on the highway with less than one year of driving experience?
2 Answers
If a driver operates a motor vehicle on the highway during the probationary period, they must be accompanied by a driver who has held a driver's license for the same or a higher vehicle category for more than three years. The accompanying driver should sit in the front passenger seat to provide guidance to the probationary driver. Failure to be accompanied or having an unqualified accompanying driver will result in a fine of 200 yuan. Below is a detailed introduction about driving on the highway with less than one year of probationary period: 1. According to Article 64, Paragraph 1 of "Decree No. 123": The first 12 months after a motor vehicle driver initially applies for a driver's license or adds a new vehicle category is the probationary period (i.e., the 12 months from the "initial license date" on the driver's license); if the probationary period is extended, the 24 months from the "initial license date" is the probationary period. 2. Article 65, Paragraph 2 of "Decree No. 123" stipulates: If a driver operates a motor vehicle on the highway during the probationary period, they must be accompanied by a driver who has held a driver's license for the same or a higher vehicle category for more than three years. The accompanying driver should sit in the front passenger seat to provide guidance to the probationary driver. Failure to be accompanied or having an unqualified accompanying driver will result in a fine of 200 yuan.
I understand the eagerness of new drivers with less than one year of license experience to drive on highways, but according to China's traffic regulations, probationary drivers are strictly prohibited from driving alone on highways. This is because highway speeds are high and reaction times are short, and inexperienced drivers are prone to rear-end collisions or loss of control. My suggestion is to always have a veteran driver with at least three years of license experience in the passenger seat to guide you throughout the journey—this is not only safer but also legal. Don’t think that trying your luck once will be fine—an accident could harm both yourself and others. Once your probationary period is over and you’ve gained enough urban road experience, you’ll feel more confident driving alone on highways. In the meantime, practice more on national roads to adapt to highway rhythms, making the transition smoother. In short, safety first—don’t take this risk.
