What to Do If Your Driver's License Is Less Than One Year Old for Highway Driving?
3 Answers
A driver whose license has not been valid for at least one year must be accompanied by a driver who has held a corresponding or higher-level driver's license for more than three years to be allowed on the highway. Below are the precautions for driving on the highway: 1. Before driving, check the vehicle's condition. Carefully inspect the tires' appearance and pressure, and test the brakes to ensure they are functioning properly. 2. New drivers in the probationary period driving alone on the highway will be fined 200 yuan. According to Article 64, Paragraph 1 of "Decree No. 123," the first 12 months after a driver initially obtains a driver's license or adds a new vehicle class to their license is considered the probationary period (i.e., the 12 months from the "initial license date" on the driver's license).
When I first got my driver's license, I also thought about this. Driving alone on the highway during the probation period is indeed a violation. Traffic regulations clearly require a veteran driver to sit in the passenger seat—not just anyone, but someone who has held the same type of license for at least three years. Last time I accompanied a friend to a neighboring city, we were stopped by traffic police for a document check, and he almost got fined 200 yuan. If I really need to travel long distances, I prefer to book a driving instructor in advance or bring along an experienced relative. If I can't find anyone, I'd rather take the national or provincial highways, even if it takes more time, but at least it's safer. I suggest that new drivers avoid driving on highways at night or in bad weather, and remember to display the probation sign prominently, as it may affect insurance claims in case of an accident.
Last time my brother, who had only had his license for half a year, secretly sneaked onto the highway for a joyride and got stopped by traffic police at the toll booth for a long lecture. New drivers really shouldn't take chances driving alone on highways - the law requires having an experienced driver with at least three years' driving experience sitting beside you for guidance. Getting caught and fined is the least of your worries; the bigger issue is that insurance companies might find excuses to deny claims if you have an accident. Honestly, since navigation apps now have options to avoid highways, it's better to take provincial roads and drive slowly. If you really want to practice highway driving skills, I suggest taking a driving instructor on short weekend trips to get pointers on lane changing and emergency handling. And don't forget to put up that yellow background with red letter 'Beginner Driver' sticker on your rear bumper!
