Are the previously passed subjects still valid when downgrading from C1 to C2?
3 Answers
The previously passed subject scores remain valid when downgrading from C1 to C2, but the examination materials will be modified because a C1 driver's license can operate all vehicle types under C2, C3, and C4. Permitted vehicle types for C1: The scope of a C1 driver's license includes small and mini passenger vehicles, light and mini cargo vehicles; light, small, and mini special-purpose vehicles; and small passenger vehicles with seating capacity not exceeding 9 persons. A C1 driver's license does not permit driving: large buses, tractors, city buses, medium buses, large trucks, regular three-wheel motorcycles, regular two-wheel motorcycles, light motorcycles, wheeled self-propelled machinery, trolleybuses, and trams. Additionally, a C1 license does not allow driving vehicles with more than 9 seats or trucks with a total length exceeding 6 meters. Age requirements for C1: The minimum age limit for a C1 driver's license is 18 years, with no upper age limit. However, applicants aged 70 and above must pass tests for memory, judgment, and reaction abilities.
I've encountered a similar situation before. When downgrading from a C1 to a C2 driver's license, my biggest concern was whether the previously taken tests would go to waste. The theoretical driving test for Subject 1, such as traffic rules and safety knowledge, remains valid after my license change because the knowledge hasn't changed, and the validity period is generally within two to three years. However, for Subject 2 (field driving) and Subject 3 (road driving), the practical parts might require retaking since I switched from manual to automatic transmission, which involves different shifting methods. The driving school instructor told me I'd need to practice again, otherwise I wouldn't pass the test. Additionally, the reasons for downgrading vary from person to person. In my case, a knee injury made driving an automatic transmission less strenuous, so I had to handle it early and confirm with the driving test center in time to avoid expiration. The whole process was quite a hassle, but if completed within the test period, the pressure would be much less.
Based on my knowledge, in the process of downgrading a driver's license, not all previously passed tests for the C1 to C2 conversion become invalid. The theoretical test (Subject 1) usually remains valid, with a maximum validity period of up to two years, as the basic content is largely the same. However, the practical tests for Subject 2 and Subject 3, due to the significant differences in operating manual and automatic transmissions, may require retaking relevant sections to ensure safe driving adaptation to the new vehicle type. A reminder: the downgrading process also includes submitting an application and undergoing a medical examination. I recommend visiting the local vehicle management office directly to check the specific rules, as their computer system can verify whether your test records have expired. This saves you from unnecessary guesswork that might affect your progress. In short, taking action early is always better than procrastinating, especially if your tests are within the one-year period, in which case you should generally face no issues.
