What to Pay Attention to When Driving During the Probationary Period
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For the first 12 months after a motor vehicle driver initially obtains a driver's license, it is considered the probationary period. During this time, a uniform probationary period emblem must be displayed on the rear of the vehicle being driven. Regardless of the type of driver's license obtained, the probationary period lasts for 12 months. Key points to note when driving during the probationary period: 1. Driving Alone on Highways is Prohibited During Probationary Period. Many people mistakenly believe that driving on highways is entirely prohibited during the probationary period. In reality, you cannot drive alone on highways; however, if accompanied by a driver with over 3 years of experience in the front passenger seat, it is permitted. Otherwise, a fine of 200 yuan will be imposed. 2. Failing to Display "Probationary" or "Novice" Emblem Results in a 200 Yuan Fine. On one hand, probationary drivers must display a "Probationary" or "Novice" emblem on the rear of their vehicle—failure to do so incurs a 200 yuan fine. On the other hand, driving commercial vehicles, ambulances, rescue vehicles, or other special-purpose vehicles is strictly prohibited. 3. Accumulating 12 Points During Probationary Period Leads to License Revocation. Penalties during the probationary period follow the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law" without any special considerations. However, it is crucial to note that accumulating 12 or more points during the probationary period will result in the immediate revocation of the driving license for the permitted vehicle type. Once revoked, the driver must reapply, retake the exams, and obtain a new license. 4. No Need to Replace License After Probationary Period Ends. After the first year of the probationary period, there is no need to replace the license. The license can be renewed during the annual review after the 6-year validity period expires (as indicated on the license, renewal should be processed at the local vehicle management office or district traffic police departments within 90 days before the expiration date). 5. Penalty Points System After Probationary Period. For 1-11 points: After paying the fine, the points reset to 12 in the next cycle. For 12 points: 7 days of study and retaking the theory test (Subject 1). For 24 points: 7 days of study and retaking both the theory (Subject 1) and road tests (Subject 3). Note: Extending the probationary period only applies to drivers with a Class B license or higher. Some believe that accumulating 6 points during the probationary period extends it by 12 months, but this rule specifically applies to drivers with Class B licenses or above.
As someone who just passed the probationary period, I deeply understand that the biggest challenge for new drivers is judging distance. It's advisable to keep the probationary sign on the rear of the car so that following vehicles will be more tolerant. Don't rush onto the highway; first practice parking in open areas to familiarize yourself with blind spots. Maintain a speed about 10% slower than surrounding traffic, and always signal for at least three seconds before overtaking. The most easily overlooked issue is blurred mirrors in rainy weather—remember to keep a defogging spray handy. For night driving, reduce speed by 20% first; if you're unsure about the range of your lights, don't take risks. Place the phone mount on the left to avoid distractions, and maintain a following distance of two seconds on regular roads and four seconds on highways. Only attempt to pick up or drop off family members after getting familiar with driving for half a month.
As someone who has been through it, I want to emphasize that the core of the internship period is developing safe driving habits. Adjust your seat, mirrors, and steering wheel first when getting in the car—this sets the foundation for your field of vision. Always turn your head to check blind spots before changing lanes; rearview mirrors always have blind zones. In urban areas, don't just focus on the bumper of the car in front—observe the movements of the three cars ahead. Braking distance increases by 50% in rainy conditions, so tap your brakes early to alert drivers behind you. Highway exits often have multiple cars making sudden lane changes; moving into the slow lane two kilometers in advance is the safest approach. Avoid nighttime mountain roads and long-distance driving in rain or snow—building muscle memory for driving takes about three months. Remember: yield speed, not lane position. In emergencies, slam on the brakes.
