Are Enclosed Vans Considered Trucks?
2 Answers
Enclosed vans can obtain an operating license, but they are not allowed to carry passengers under a truck operating license. If used for transporting goods or passengers, they cannot obtain an operating license. Currently, domestic regulations stipulate that vans with seven seats or fewer cannot be used for freight transportation. Vans are classified as follows: 1. 6~8-seater (micro passenger vans): These are the most common type of vans, used for general passenger or cargo transport. A C1 driver's license is sufficient to operate them. 2. 9~12-seater (light passenger vans): Traffic regulations require school buses to have nine or more seats, so these vans are often used as school buses, travel vehicles, or business vehicles. A B1 driver's license is required to operate this type of van. 3. 13-seater and above (medium-sized passenger vans): These vehicles are more specialized, as their function is closer to that of a bus. They are used to transport a larger number of passengers or goods.
I've been driving a van for over ten years, and this issue actually depends on the vehicle type listed on the driving license. If it's labeled as a truck or an enclosed truck, then it's classified as a truck, like some Wuling Rongguang models specifically designed for cargo transport. However, if it's categorized as a small ordinary passenger vehicle, then it's not a truck and can only carry passengers—removing seats to haul goods is not allowed. Truck regulations are stricter, requiring an operating permit, and there are many restricted hours in urban areas. I used to transport building materials with an enclosed van, and because the driving license classified it as a truck, I had to avoid peak hours every day. I recommend everyone check the classification on the driving license when buying a car, not just choose based on the vehicle's appearance.
