Can a C1 Driver's License Operate a 9-Seater Passenger Vehicle?
2 Answers
C1 driver's license can drive nine-seater vehicles. The C1 driving license permits the operation of light and small trucks with a total mass below 4,500kg and a vehicle length under 6 meters. Both conditions must be met simultaneously; exceeding either criterion prohibits driving. Below are specific details about Class C driving licenses: 1. C1: The C1 license covers small cars, micro passenger vehicles, as well as light and micro trucks and specialized operation vehicles. 2. C2: The C2 license allows driving small and micro automatic transmission passenger vehicles and light and micro automatic transmission trucks. 3. C3: The C3 license permits operating low-speed trucks. 4. C4: The C4 license is for driving three-wheeled vehicles.
When I was studying for my driver's license, I researched this specifically. A C1 license allows you to drive a 9-seater, but it depends on whether the vehicle length is within 6 meters. For example, the 9-seater Buick GL8 in our neighborhood is only 5.2 meters long, classified as a small passenger vehicle, so it's completely legal for me to drive it for grocery shopping every day. However, if it's an extended 9-seater exceeding 6 meters, you'd need a B license. I recommend checking the 'vehicle type' on the registration certificate before driving—it should be labeled as 'small ordinary passenger vehicle.' Also, the seating capacity includes the driver, and overloading or exceeding vehicle size limits is a big no-no. If caught by traffic police, you'll get points deducted immediately.
