Is the probationary period for a driver's license only 6 points?
2 Answers
No, it's not 6 points. The full score for an initially obtained C1 driver's license is 12 points. During the probationary period for a C1 license, a 6-point deduction only requires paying a fine, but accumulating 12 points will result in license revocation. Based on the severity of road traffic violations, the point deductions are categorized into five levels: 12 points, 6 points, 3 points, 2 points, and 1 point. Below is relevant information: Relevant laws: According to Article 65 of the 'Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driver's Licenses,' the cumulative scoring cycle for road traffic violations (i.e., the scoring cycle) is 12 months, with a full score of 12 points, calculated from the date the motor vehicle driver's license is initially obtained. Additional information: Drivers holding licenses for large buses, tractors, city buses, medium-sized buses, or large trucks who accumulate more than 6 points but less than 12 points during the one-year probationary period will have their probation extended by one year. If they again accumulate more than 6 points but less than 12 points during the extended probationary period, their probationary driving qualification for the permitted vehicle type will be revoked.
I've been driving for almost twenty years and have seen many novices misunderstand the point system during the probationary period of their driver's license. Some say there are only 6 points, but that's incorrect. Probationary drivers also have a base of 12 points, and the deduction rules are the same as for a full license. However, the key point is that during the probationary period, if you accumulate 12 penalty points, your license will be directly revoked, requiring you to retake all driving tests—unlike a full license where you might only need to retake the theory test. Novices, with their less polished skills, are prone to minor mistakes like improper lane changes or speeding, which can quickly deduct 6 or 7 points at a time. Accumulating 12 points too fast means starting over, costing both time and money. My advice is to practice more with experienced drivers during the probationary period, avoid high-traffic routes to reduce stress, maintain safe following distances and speeds in daily driving, and avoid taking risks on unfamiliar roads. Developing safe driving habits is crucial.
