Can a C1 License Drive a Tow Truck or Wrecker?
2 Answers
Blue-plate wreckers are classified as small vehicles, which can be driven with a C1 driver's license. Age Requirements for C1 License Application: The minimum age limit for a C1 driver's license is 18 years old, with no upper age limit. However, applicants over 70 years old must pass tests on memory, judgment, and reaction abilities. Vehicle Types Permitted with C1 License: The C1 license allows driving small and mini passenger vehicles, as well as light and mini cargo vehicles; light, small, and mini special-purpose vehicles; and small passenger vehicles with a seating capacity of 9 or fewer people. Vehicles Not Permitted with C1 License: The C1 license does not permit driving large buses, tractors, city buses, medium-sized buses, large trucks, ordinary three-wheeled motorcycles, ordinary two-wheeled motorcycles, mopeds, wheeled self-propelled machinery, trolleybuses, or trams. Additionally, the C1 license does not allow driving vehicles with more than 9 seats or trucks with a total length exceeding 6 meters.
I've been driving on the road for decades and have seen many people ask whether a C1 driver's license can be used to operate tow trucks or recovery vehicles. Generally speaking, the C1 license is intended for small vehicles, such as regular cars or small trucks. Recovery vehicles are mostly special-purpose vehicles that require at least a Class B license, so they can't be driven with a C1. For small trailers, like travel trailers, if the total weight doesn't exceed 4.5 tons and meets safety standards, a C1 license might sometimes be sufficient. However, you need to be careful, as traffic police in many areas enforce strict checks. Driving without the proper license could result in points deducted, fines, or even affect your insurance. I advise friends to first check the vehicle type and the permitted driving range of their license. Don't just rely on experience and take unnecessary risks—safety comes first, and driving responsibly benefits everyone.
