Is a probationary sign required during the probationary period?
3 Answers
Is a probationary sign required during the probationary period? Failing to display the probationary sign during the probationary period will result in a fine. The following are the precautions for driving during the probationary period: No driving alone on highways: During the probationary period, a driver operating a motor vehicle on a highway must be accompanied by a driver who has held a driver's license for the same or a higher class of vehicle 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 result in a fine. Display the probationary sign: Failing to display the probationary sign as required will result in a fine. Therefore, even when borrowing or renting a car during the probationary period, the probationary sign must be displayed as required. No driving of special vehicles: During the probationary period, a driver is not allowed to drive buses, commercial passenger vehicles, taxis, or vehicles such as police cars, fire trucks, ambulances, and engineering rescue vehicles on duty, as well as motor vehicles carrying explosives, flammable and explosive chemicals, highly toxic or radioactive materials, and other hazardous items. The motor vehicle driven must not tow a trailer.
I've been driving for over a decade and noticed many novice drivers don't take the probationary plate seriously. Honestly, according to traffic regulations, displaying a probationary plate is mandatory during the probation period, typically the first 12 months after obtaining a driver's license. Just place it on the upper right corner of the windshield or other conspicuous locations so others can immediately recognize you're a beginner and will proactively yield or slow down. A friend of mine got caught without it and was fined 200 yuan with penalty points, affecting his driving record. More importantly, insurance may deny claims or increase premiums after an accident, making it not worth the risk. The probation period is already prone to nervousness or mistakes, and displaying the plate protects yourself while facilitating a safer transition. I advise all learner drivers to follow the rules and not overlook this small detail for convenience's sake—safety should always come first.
I just got my driver's license three months ago and am still in the probationary period. I've had the 'New Driver' sign displayed from the very beginning. I remember my instructor repeatedly emphasizing its importance, saying it's legally required and you could be fined at least 200 yuan if you don't display it. When driving with the sign, I feel much more stable as other drivers tend to keep their distance when they see it, reducing the risk of minor collisions. Once in a traffic jam, I noticed a new driver changing lanes ahead without the sign and nearly caused a rear-end collision. Actually, displaying the sign is very simple—just buy a sticker or magnetic one and place it on the front window. The probationary period is already challenging enough with inexperienced driving, so having the sign gives me peace of mind and reassures my family. I recommend new drivers not skip this step—safety comes first.
