How Long Before a Novice Driver Can Drive on the Highway?
2 Answers
Novice drivers can drive on the highway as soon as they obtain their driver's license, but they must be accompanied by an experienced driver with over three years of driving experience. Without such accompaniment, they must wait until they have held their license for at least one year. Vehicles on highways move faster and are more numerous, making it dangerous for those without prior highway driving experience. The restrictions for driving during the probationary period are as follows: 1. A probationary driver operating a motor vehicle on the highway must be accompanied by a driver who holds a corresponding or higher-class driver's license with at least three years of experience; 2. During the probationary period, drivers are prohibited from operating buses, commercial passenger vehicles, police cars, fire trucks, ambulances, engineering rescue vehicles, or any motor vehicle carrying explosives, flammable and explosive chemicals, highly toxic substances, radioactive materials, or other hazardous items.
When I first got my driver's license, I was curious about when I could drive on the highway for long distances. Legally, new drivers generally need to complete a 12-month probationary period before they can drive alone on the highway; otherwise, they need an experienced driver to accompany them. I recommend not rushing onto the highway—practice in the city for a few months first to get used to various road conditions and traffic signals. On the highway, speeds are high, and unexpected situations are common, making it easy for beginners to get distracted or react slowly, which increases the risk of accidents. I’ve seen many young drivers get into trouble soon after starting, with serious consequences. So, be patient. Use weekends to practice driving on suburban roads or long-distance national highways to build confidence and skills. Once you can easily handle turns, overtaking, and night driving, you’ll naturally be ready to safely enjoy highway driving. This process varies from person to person, but don’t rush it—give it at least a year or two.
