How Long Before a Beginner Can Drive Alone on the Highway?
2 Answers
Beginners can drive alone on the highway one year after obtaining their driver's license. Here are some key points to note during the probationary period of the driver's license: 1. Need for a companion on the highway: During the probationary period, you cannot drive alone on the highway. If a probationary driver operates a motor vehicle on the highway, 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 guide the probationary driver. Driving without a companion or with an unqualified companion will result in a fine. 2. Displaying the probationary sign: It is mandatory to display the probationary sign while driving during the probationary period. If you borrow or rent a car during this period, you must also affix the probationary sign as required; otherwise, you are not allowed to drive. 3. Accumulating 12 penalty points: Accumulating 12 penalty points requires retaking the test. If you accumulate 12 penalty points during the probationary period, your driver's license will be revoked, and you will need to reapply and retake all tests from the beginning, including the written test, road test, and driving skills test.
As an experienced driver with decades behind the wheel, I strongly advise new drivers not to rush onto highways. Legally, novice drivers must complete at least a one-year probationary period during which they cannot drive alone on highways; having an experienced passenger as a co-pilot is much safer. Why? High speeds on freeways mean even small mistakes can lead to major accidents. New drivers should practice turns, parking, and handling dense urban traffic in city areas first. I've personally witnessed a new driver attempt the highway after just three months—panicking and nearly causing a serious incident. My advice: wait until after the probationary year or until you've logged several hundred kilometers of regular driving to build confidence before attempting short highway trips. Never gamble with safety to save time—it's playing with lives.
