How long does it take for a novice driver to drive on the highway?

[LeMelanie]

Novice drivers can drive on the highway after obtaining their driver's license for 12 months. During the probationary period, driving on the highway should be accompanied by a driver who has held a driver's license for the corresponding or higher vehicle type for more than three years. For driving small automatic passenger vehicles specially designed for the disabled, the accompanying driver can hold a driver's license for small automatic passenger vehicles or higher. During the probationary period after adding a new vehicle type to the license, driving the originally permitted vehicle type is not subject to the above restrictions. More extended information is as follows: 1. According to Article 64, Paragraph 1 of "Order No. 123": The first 12 months after a motor vehicle driver initially applies for a driver's license or adds a new vehicle type to the license is the probationary period (i.e., within 12 months from the "initial license date" on the original driver's license); if the probationary period is extended, 24 months from the "initial license date" is the probationary period. 2. Article 65, Paragraph 2 of "Order No. 123" stipulates: When driving on the highway during the probationary period, the driver should be accompanied by a driver who has held a driver's license for the corresponding or higher vehicle type for more than three years. The accompanying driver should sit in the front passenger seat to guide the probationary driver. Driving without an accompanying driver or with an unqualified accompanying driver will be subject to fines.

[LeKaylee]

I understand that beginners want to drive on the highway but are concerned about safety. In fact, you can drive on the highway as soon as you get your driver's license, but it's best to accumulate at least 5,000 kilometers of urban road experience before taking on the challenge. I recommend starting during a midday period with lighter traffic. Remember to check tire pressure and fluid levels before setting off. The key isn't the length of time you've had your license, but rather developing anticipation skills—being able to read the movements of the three cars ahead of you and knowing to ease off the accelerator when large trucks change lanes. The habit of checking your rearview mirror every 10 seconds is also crucial. I suggest having an experienced driver in the passenger seat to guide you during your first three highway drives, helping you adapt to the sensation of 110 km/h speeds and safe following distances. How well you drive on the highway isn't determined by how long you've had your license.

[BryceLee]

Newly licensed friends often ask me this question. Legally, there's no restriction on driving on highways, but for safety reasons, I recommend driving in the city for 1-2 months before attempting it. After all, highways require faster reaction times: you need to quickly adapt to light changes inside and outside tunnels, and make smaller steering corrections when overtaking. I remember a friend who drove on the highway before their new car had even completed the break-in period, and the steering wheel vibration scared them badly. Don’t overlook the impact of the vehicle’s break-in period. I suggest trying short highway trips during less crowded hours first, to get a feel for crosswind effects and speed differentials. In fact, once you’re comfortable driving at 80km/h on elevated roads, tackling highways will become much easier.

[IvanAnn]

New drivers are most afraid of merging at highway entrances, right? It took me three months of practice before I dared to attempt it. The key is driving feel—if you can navigate roundabouts smoothly without braking and park in reverse in one go, you're probably ready. I suggest making a few highway trips with a friend's car first to familiarize yourself with road conditions. Be especially cautious in rain or fog—visibility under 400 meters on the highway is very dangerous. Remember to install a dashcam to capture license plate evidence in case of emergencies. When overtaking, downshifting for acceleration is safer than flooring the throttle. Don't just focus on mileage—remaining steady during emergency lane changes is the true benchmark.

[Marques]

Highways aren't scary – lack of preparation is. Novices should complete at least 20 independent night drives in urban areas before considering highways. Focus on developing speed awareness: learn to distinguish between 60/80/100 km/h without checking the dashboard. Practice conditioned reflexes for sudden animal crossings – avoid sharp steering. Check navigation before departure to avoid construction zones, postpone trips during heavy rain. My tip: place a half-filled water bottle in the cup holder – minimal ripples indicate good speed control. Don't fear pressure from experienced drivers, just safely maintain 90 km/h in the right lane.