How long does it take for a beginner to drive on the highway?
2 Answers
Beginners can drive alone on the highway after one year. According to relevant regulations, a new driver's license has a 12-month probationary period. During this probationary period, drivers are not allowed to drive on the highway alone and must be accompanied by someone with more than three years of driving experience. This is based on safety considerations, as it is quite dangerous for beginners to drive on the highway due to the high speeds and numerous precautions that need to be taken. Precautions for beginners driving on the highway: 1. Maintain a good mindset, stay calm, and avoid panic; 2. Prepare adequately by checking for tire cracks or bulges, ensuring lights are functioning properly, planning the route in advance, and confirming sufficient fuel; 3. Stay focused; 4. Pay attention to warning signs; 5. Avoid driving while fatigued; 6. Maintain proper following distance and signal in advance.
I specifically asked my driving instructor this question right after I got my driver's license. Traffic regulations clearly state that the probationary period for a driver's license is 12 months, during which you cannot drive on highways alone and must be accompanied by an experienced driver with at least 3 years of driving experience in the passenger seat. Why is this rule in place? On highways, traffic moves faster and reaction times are shorter, making inexperienced drivers more prone to misjudgments. Even after the probationary period ends, I recommend first getting accustomed to speeds of 80km/h on urban expressways before attempting highways. I remember practicing over 3,000 kilometers on city roads before my first highway drive, focusing especially on lane change anticipation and emergency braking—otherwise, I wouldn't have dared to drive on the highway.
