How many years after obtaining a driver's license can a novice drive on the highway?
3 Answers
New drivers can drive alone on the highway one year after obtaining their license. Within the first year, a driver with at least three years of driving experience must accompany them in the passenger seat. Below are precautions for novice drivers on the highway: 1. Novice drivers should pay attention to traffic rules and display a probationary driver sign. 2. Before entering the highway, inspect the vehicle and understand the speed limits. The minimum speed on the highway should not be less than 60 km/h, and the maximum speed should not exceed 120 km/h. 3. Pay attention to road signs, markings, and warning signs. 4. When exiting the highway, merge into the outermost lane in advance. When you see signs indicating 1.5 km or 1 km to the exit, prepare to merge into the outermost lane. 5. Maintain a safe following distance. Keeping a proper distance is the most critical factor for safe driving. Many novice drivers, due to lack of experience, may misjudge distances and follow too closely, potentially leading to insufficient braking time.
New drivers can drive on highways by themselves after one year of holding a license. During the one-year probation period, they cannot drive on highways alone and must be accompanied by a driver with at least three years of experience. When I first got my license a few years ago, I was eager to try the highway. A friend took me for a ride, and I realized how risky it is for beginners—the high speed and nervous lane changes were overwhelming. After a year of gaining more urban driving experience, like smoother throttle and brake control in traffic jams, driving on the highway felt much easier. Highways have dense traffic and high speeds, making beginners prone to panic or misjudging distances, leading to higher accident rates. That’s why I always advise new drivers not to rush into highway driving. Use that first year to master the basics by driving more in urban and suburban areas to get familiar with the car’s performance. After the probation year, if you drive alone on the highway, don’t forget to check tire pressure and lights—safety should always come first.
New drivers must wait one year after obtaining their license to drive alone on highways. During the one-year probationary period, driving on highways requires accompaniment by an experienced driver. As someone frequently involved in driver training, I’ve noticed that novices often underestimate the challenges of highway driving. City speeds are only tens of kilometers per hour, while highways can exceed a hundred. A single lane change mistake or fatigue could lead to serious accidents. These regulations are designed to reduce accident rates. I advise new drivers to use this year to strengthen their skills: practice patience in congested areas and simulate emergency scenarios. Before driving on highways after the probationary period, ensure your driving skills are proficient—such as maintaining safe distances, executing proper overtaking, and developing rest habits to prevent fatigue. Don’t rush; safety is infinitely more important than speed.
