Can a C-license driver operate an 11-seater vehicle?
3 Answers
An 11-seater vehicle cannot be driven with a C-license. The reasons are as follows: 1. Vehicle Type: An 11-seater vehicle is classified as a medium-sized passenger vehicle, requiring at least a B1 license to operate. 2. C-license: The permitted vehicle types for a C-license are small and mini passenger vehicles, as well as light and mini cargo vehicles, and light, small, and mini special-purpose vehicles. The vehicle length must not exceed 6 meters. Additional Information: Among C-class driver's licenses, only C1 and C2 licenses can operate 9-seater vehicles. The specific details are as follows: 1. C1 License: The permitted vehicle types include small and mini passenger vehicles, light and mini cargo vehicles, and light, small, and mini special-purpose vehicles. According to relevant regulations, small passenger vehicles must have a seating capacity of 9 or fewer people, meaning a C1 license cannot operate vehicles with more than 9 seats. 2. C2 License: The permitted vehicle types include small and mini automatic transmission passenger vehicles and light and mini automatic transmission cargo vehicles. It allows driving automatic transmission vehicles with 9 or fewer seats and a length not exceeding 6 meters.
Under China's traffic regulations, a C1 driver's license only permits driving small vehicles with 9 or fewer seats. An 11-seater vehicle is classified as a medium-sized bus, which requires a B1 license. After reviewing the rules, the seat count classification is strict—just two extra seats exceed the limit. Driving the wrong vehicle carries high risks: if caught by police, you'll face penalty points and fines, possible towing, and it could affect insurance claims. Safety is also a concern, as larger vehicles are harder to control and prone to accidents during sharp turns or sudden stops. If you want to drive an 11-seater, it's best to upgrade to a B1 license at a driving school—the test isn't too difficult, and it avoids unnecessary trouble.
I think many people overlook the details of driver's licenses. The C-class license (C1) allows driving small vehicles with up to 9 seats - 11-seaters are definitely not permitted. From my driving experience, exceeding the seat limit is no trivial matter and can easily lead to accidents – larger vehicles have longer braking distances, poorer visibility, and are particularly challenging for novice drivers to handle. If caught by surveillance cameras or roadside inspections, you'll face direct point deductions, fines, and possibly even license suspension. I recommend checking the vehicle registration certificate to confirm the exact seating capacity. If you genuinely need to drive larger vehicles, enroll in a certified institution to obtain a B1 license – acquiring more skills will give you greater peace of mind.
