What to Do When the Probation Period of a Driver's License Expires?
2 Answers
According to relevant regulations, drivers with C1 and C2 small vehicle driver's licenses do not need to take any additional exams or education after the probation period expires. However, drivers of large buses, tractors, city buses, medium-sized buses, and large trucks must undergo relevant training and exams. Below are the penalties related to driving on highways before completing one year of probation: 1. Novice drivers driving alone on highways will be fined 200 yuan: Article 65, Section 2 of 'Order No. 123' stipulates that drivers in the probation period must be accompanied by a driver who has held a driver's license for the same or a higher vehicle class for at least three years when driving on highways. The accompanying driver must sit in the front passenger seat to guide the probationary driver. Failure to comply with this requirement will result in a 200 yuan fine. 2. Not displaying the 'Probation Mark' will incur a 200 yuan fine: Article 64, Section 3 of 'Order No. 123' states that drivers in the probation period must display a uniform probation mark on the rear of the vehicle. Traffic police remind that failure to display the mark, displaying an unrecognizable mark, or using non-compliant marks such as 'New Driver' or self-printed signs will be considered as not displaying the mark and result in a 200 yuan fine. 3. Accumulating 12 penalty points during the probation period will lead to license revocation: Article 69 of 'Order No. 123' states that if a driver accumulates 12 penalty points during the probation period, the driving qualification for the probationary vehicle class will be revoked. If the revoked qualification is not for the highest vehicle class, the highest vehicle class qualification will also be revoked. In other words, starting next year, 'novice' drivers who run two red lights or commit one drunk driving offense will have their driving qualifications revoked.
After my probationary driver's license period ended, I went directly to the local DMV to apply for the license replacement. The whole process went smoothly—just needed my ID card, driver's license, and a few photos, with no additional tests required. The probationary period automatically converts to a full license upon completion, but it doesn't hurt to double-check. I feel like I've developed good safe-driving habits during the probationary period. Now I can freely drive on highways, but I still need to stay cautious—regularly checking the car's condition, like tire pressure and lights, is a must. Driving isn't just about skill; it's a responsibility. The end of the probationary period is a starting point, not the finish line—there's still regular license renewal and car maintenance ahead.
