Can a C1 driver's license drive an ambulance?
2 Answers
C1 driver's license cannot drive an ambulance, because the permitted vehicle types for this license are small cars with less than 7 seats, while ambulances are generally medium-sized passenger vehicles with more than 9 seats, which have their relevant seats removed and converted into stretchers and bench seats. The following is an introduction to the C1 driver's license: 1. Permitted vehicle types for C1 driver's license: The C1 driver's license is a type of driver's license code, permitting small and micro passenger vehicles, as well as light, micro cargo vehicles, and light, small, micro special operation vehicles, etc. 2. C1 license does not allow riding motorcycles: Without a D or E license, you cannot drive a motorcycle. If you violate traffic regulations and drive without the proper license, it is considered unlicensed driving. According to Article 99 of the Safety Law, driving a motor vehicle without obtaining a motor vehicle driver's license, or when the driver's license is revoked or temporarily suspended, shall be fined not less than 200 yuan but not more than 2,000 yuan, and may also be detained for not more than 15 days.
I've been driving for over a decade and have deep personal experience with this. A C1 license is mainly for operating light vehicles like sedans, SUVs, or microvans - the kind used for daily commuting. Ambulances are completely different; they're large in size, often weigh over 4.5 tons, and frequently carry multiple people plus medical equipment, qualifying as special-purpose vehicles. Driving one with a C1 license is a violation - firstly because it's a major safety risk (inexperienced handling easily leads to accidents), and secondly it's legally considered unlicensed driving. If caught by traffic police, penalties range from fines to point deductions or even license revocation. I have a friend who got fined for driving a similar vehicle - it was a hard lesson. My advice is to quickly upgrade to a Class B license or obtain special ambulance certification. Don't gamble with lives or traffic laws. Safe driving isn't just about you - it's about responsibility to others on the road, and ambulances especially require professional drivers.