What are the restricted hours for driving on highways?

[McXavier]

According to the relevant traffic regulations in China, long-distance passenger vehicles are prohibited from driving on highways between 2:00 AM and 5:00 AM, but there are no such restrictions for other vehicles. This means that private cars (small vehicles) can drive on highways 24 hours a day without any prohibited hours. The main reason for prohibiting long-distance passenger vehicles from driving on highways between 2:00 AM and 5:00 AM is to prevent driver fatigue and reduce the occurrence of traffic accidents. Many accidents involving long-distance passenger vehicles are related to fatigue driving at night, which led traffic management authorities to establish this regulation. For long-distance passenger vehicles that enter the highway before 2:00 AM, they are also not allowed to continue driving during the restricted hours. They must rest at nearby service areas and can only resume driving on the highway when the permitted time arrives. Although there are no specific restricted hours for small vehicles and other types of vehicles on highways, there are clear regulations regarding drivers' driving and rest times: During the day, drivers should not drive continuously for more than 4 hours, and at night, they should not drive continuously for more than 2 hours. Each rest stop should last no less than 20 minutes; The total driving time within 24 hours should not exceed 8 hours; The total driving time within 7 consecutive days should not exceed 44 hours, with effective breaks taken during this period.

[BentleyLee]

I've been on the road for over ten years, driving both heavy trucks and cars. The restricted hours for large vehicles on highways are usually from 10 PM to 5 AM, but it varies by region. For example, in Guangdong, it sometimes starts as early as 9 PM. These restrictions mainly target trucks to reduce nighttime accidents, as poor visibility combined with fatigue driving makes accidents far too likely. There are no strict rules for cars, but as an experienced driver, I advise all drivers to avoid night highway driving whenever possible—safety first. Different provinces have different rules: Beijing might restrict from 11 PM to 6 AM, while Shanghai starts earlier, from 8 PM to 5 AM. It's best to check map apps or traffic radio updates before heading out.

[Jake]

The nighttime driving ban on highways is primarily for safety reasons. The restricted period for large vehicles is generally from 10 PM to 6 AM, but it's not an issue for small cars. As someone who's driven extensively, I know this regulation effectively prevents fatigue-related accidents since highways are unlit at night and the high speeds pose greater risks. Having driven across different provinces, I've noticed strict enforcement in places like Shandong and Jiangsu, while southern cities like Hangzhou occasionally extend the restriction until 7 AM. Although small cars can pass freely, I adhere to the principle of early departure and return - daytime driving is simply more relaxed and reassuring.

[DeIsabela]

According to traffic regulations, the time restriction for large vehicles on highways is mostly from 10 PM to 6 AM the next day. Small cars are not affected, but driving at night is very dangerous. I usually choose to travel during the day to avoid this time period. It is recommended to check local traffic restrictions using navigation software before departure to avoid fines or accidents.