Can a C1 License Drive a Regular Three-Wheeled Vehicle?
2 Answers
C1 driver's license can drive three-wheeled automobiles, but not three-wheeled motorcycles. According to the "Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driver's Licenses," a C1 license permits driving the following vehicles: small and micro passenger vehicles, as well as light and micro trucks; light, small, and micro special-purpose vehicles; small passenger vehicles with 9 or fewer passengers. A C1 license can also drive vehicles of models C2, C3, and C4. Permitted vehicle types for C1: The scope of a C1 driver's license includes small and micro passenger vehicles, light and micro trucks; light, small, and micro special operation vehicles; small passenger vehicles with 9 or fewer passengers. Vehicles not permitted for C1: Large buses, tractors, city buses, medium-sized buses, large trucks, regular three-wheeled motorcycles, regular two-wheeled motorcycles, light motorcycles, wheeled self-propelled machinery, trolleybuses, and trams. Additionally, a C1 license cannot drive vehicles with more than 9 seats, nor can it drive trucks with a total length exceeding 6 meters.
This issue is indeed quite confusing. When I was getting my C1 driver's license, I also thought that three-wheeled vehicles should be drivable. However, after specifically checking the 'Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driving Licenses,' I found that ordinary three-wheeled motorcycles (including three-wheeled cars with steering wheels) require a D license. C1 license holders absolutely cannot operate those fuel-powered three-wheelers with handlebar controls—driving the wrong vehicle results in a 9-point deduction and a 200-yuan fine. I personally witnessed a neighbor getting fined the day after buying a three-wheeler. That said, many enclosed electric vehicles used in scenic areas are classified as off-road vehicles and don’t require a license—this is an exception worth noting. If you want to drive a cargo three-wheeler, you must obtain an operating permit and a D license—double the requirements.
