
C1 driver's license can drive automatic transmission vehicles. Here is detailed information about C1 driver's license: 1. Overview: It is one of the codes for motor vehicle driver's licenses. It permits driving small and mini passenger vehicles, light and mini cargo vehicles, and light, small, and mini special purpose vehicles. 2. Examination: Includes four subjects: traffic regulations and related knowledge, field driving, road driving, and safe and civilized driving knowledge. If a candidate fails in one subject, the following subjects will not proceed. Each subject allows up to 5 retests. If a candidate fails after 5 retests, the examination will be terminated. 3. Driving requirements: C1 license holders cannot drive vehicles with more than 9 seats. Additionally: The total length of the driven truck cannot exceed 6 meters. Vehicles not within the permitted scope cannot be driven.

Of course, a C1 driver's license allows you to drive automatic transmission cars! Back when I got my license, I immediately drove my family's automatic Corolla on the road without any issues. Although you learn to drive manual transmission when taking the C1 test, after obtaining the license, you can drive both automatic and manual transmission vehicles. However, it's important to note that a C1 license doesn't permit driving large trucks or motorcycles, but it does cover ordinary sedans, SUVs, MPVs, and other blue-plate vehicles. In fact, someone who can drive a manual transmission can naturally drive an automatic, but the reverse isn't true, so getting a C1 license actually gives you more options. I have friends who took the C2 license for convenience, only to find themselves helpless when they wanted to borrow someone else's manual transmission car. My advice is, if you can get a C1 license, don't settle for a C2—it's a more valuable certification.

Last week, my cousin just got his C1 license and specifically confirmed with the driving school instructor that he can drive automatic transmission vehicles. The C1 license scope clearly states: blue-plate vehicles under 6 meters in length and with fewer than 9 seats, whether manual or automatic, are all permissible. Not having to press the clutch or shift gears at red lights is indeed less tiring, especially in city traffic where driving an automatic is much more relaxed. Of course, it's worth noting that while it's allowed, some rental car models may require a certain driving experience, so beginners are advised to practice with their own cars first. Just avoid those oversized luxury limousines or yellow-plate vehicles that exceed the length limit.

I know this well! Last year when I upgraded from a manual to an automatic transmission car, I specifically checked the traffic regulations. It's completely legal to drive an automatic with a C1 license - the 12123 APP clearly lists C2 vehicles under permitted models for C1 holders. Simply put, a C1 license is the advanced version of a manual transmission license, allowing you to drive all small passenger vehicles. However, if you want to drive for ride-hailing services like DiDi, pay special attention as some cities require drivers to have held their license for at least 3 years. For new drivers who just got their license, I'd recommend practicing automatic transmission operation (especially throttle and brake sensitivity) on less crowded roads first. After all, driving schools teach manual transmission, so switching to single-pedal operation requires some adjustment.

As a veteran driver with ten years of experience, let me tell you: driving an automatic transmission with a C1 license is absolutely no problem! Just remember these three key points: the vehicle length should not exceed 6 meters, it must have a blue license plate, and it should have no more than 9 seats. For example, I've driven automatic transmission cars like the Fit, Corolla, and even a 7-seater GL8, all of which meet the requirements. Although manual transmission is more challenging when getting a driver's license, those who can drive manual will find driving automatic as easy as pie. On the other hand, my neighbor, who got a C2 license, once tried to drive her son's manual car and ended up burning the clutch. So, if possible, learn manual transmission—it gives you more flexibility when changing or borrowing cars in the future. When renting a car, make sure to choose the small car category and avoid mistakenly renting a minibus.


