How long after getting a C1 driver's license can you drive on the highway?
3 Answers
A C1 driver's license holder can drive alone on the highway after one year of obtaining the license. Conditions for driving on the highway: 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 and provide guidance to the probationary driver. Failure to be accompanied by a qualified driver will result in a fine. Legal basis: Article 75 of the 'Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driver's Licenses': A driver operating a motor vehicle on the highway during the probationary period 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. However, drivers of small automatic transmission vehicles specially designed for the disabled can be accompanied by a driver who holds a driver's license for small automatic transmission passenger vehicles or higher. During the probationary period after adding a new vehicle category, the above restrictions do not apply when driving the original vehicle category.
When I first got my C1 driver's license, I was also eager to hit the highway for a joyride, but a friend reminded me: according to regulations, the probation period lasts a full 12 months, during which you absolutely cannot drive on the highway alone. You must have an experienced driver with at least three years of holding a C1 license sitting in the passenger seat to accompany you. Otherwise, if caught by traffic police, you'll face fines and points deduction. I remember during that year, I often asked my cousin to accompany me for practice drives, getting familiar with the feel of driving on regular roads first. After the year passed, I could freely drive alone on the highway. Safety really comes first; the risks for beginners on the highway are high, with fast cars and complex road conditions, making accidents more likely. So be patient and wait—the year will pass quickly, and gaining more experience is what truly matters.
As someone who has driven for several years, I'd like to advise new C1 license holders not to rush onto expressways alone. According to regulations, the probation period lasts 12 months, and during the first year, you must be accompanied by an experienced driver who has held the same type of license for over three years. This is because expressway driving involves higher speeds, and novice drivers lack the experience to handle emergencies. The rule exists to reduce accident risks. After the probation period ends, you can drive on expressways alone without supervision. During the waiting period, I recommend practicing more on regular roads to familiarize yourself with vehicle control and traffic rules, which will make expressway driving safer later. Remember, safety always comes first.
