How long is the probation period for a driver's license?
2 Answers
Newly obtained driver's licenses come with a one-year probation period, calculated from the date of initial issuance, lasting for the subsequent 12 months. While a year may not seem excessively long, it is significant because certain regulations must be observed during this probation period. Failure to comply can, in severe cases, lead to the revocation of the license. Key points to note during the probation period include: 1. Validity of the issued license: After completing the probation period, there is no need to replace the initially issued driver's license, provided there are no demerit points or other violations. No review by the vehicle management or traffic police departments is required unless the license, which is valid for six years initially, needs renewal after this period. 2. Accompaniment by an experienced driver: Probationary drivers are allowed on highways but must be accompanied by a driver who has held a license for more than three years. Driving on highways without such accompaniment is prohibited and punishable if caught by traffic police. It is advisable for new drivers to have an experienced driver accompany them in the passenger seat for some time to quickly adapt to road conditions and avoid accidents during the probation period. 3. Display of probationary signs: Vehicles driven by probationary license holders must display a probationary sign at the rear to alert other drivers. New drivers often exhibit improper driving behaviors, such as sudden stops, failing to signal turns, or erratic driving, which can disrupt traffic. The probationary sign helps other drivers anticipate and avoid potential hazards. 4. Demerit points during probation: For Class C licenses, accumulating 12 demerit points during probation will result in automatic revocation. For Class A and B licenses, accumulating 6 points extends the probation period by one year, and 12 points lead to the revocation of the license for the probationary vehicle class.
When I first got my driver's license, I was super excited. I remember the probation period was a full 12 months. Starting from the day I received the license, I had to drive carefully every month. During the probation period, I had to display that eye-catching 'New Driver' sticker on the car window to alert others that I was a beginner. The most annoying part was not being allowed to drive alone on highways—I had to find a friend to accompany me, or I'd get fined. In the city, the speed limit was 80 km/h, and a few times I almost exceeded it, which scared me to death. Driving to and from work daily, I practiced reversing and turning, gradually gaining experience. After completing the 12 months, I went to the DMV to finalize the formalization process, and removing the 'New Driver' sticker was a relief. As a new driver, I found this probation period quite useful—it helped me avoid making mistakes.
