Can a C1 License Drive a Toyota Coaster?
3 Answers
C1 driver's license can drive a 9-seater Toyota Coaster, but cannot drive Toyota Coaster models with more than 9 seats. The permitted driving scope of a C1 license includes small and mini passenger vehicles, light and mini cargo vehicles; light, small, and mini special operation vehicles; and small passenger vehicles with seating capacity of 9 or fewer people. Vehicle types that a C1 license cannot drive: A C1 license cannot drive large buses, tractors, city buses, medium buses, large trucks, ordinary three-wheeled motorcycles, ordinary two-wheeled motorcycles, light motorcycles, wheeled self-propelled machinery, trolleybuses, or trams. Additionally, a C1 license cannot drive vehicles with more than 9 seats or trucks with a total length exceeding 6 meters. Age requirements for a C1 license: The minimum age limit for a C1 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.
When I first got my driver's license, I was also curious about this question. After researching, I learned that a C1 license only allows you to drive small cars, such as vehicles with fewer than 9 seats. The Toyota Coaster is a medium to large-sized bus, with common models having over 20 seats and a large vehicle length, which requires a B1 license. If you drive it without the proper license, you could face fines and points deducted by traffic police if caught. In case of an accident, insurance won't cover it either, which really isn't worth it. Actually, during driver's training, the instructor reminded us that different vehicles correspond to different license levels, and driving the wrong type of vehicle poses significant risks. It's better to honestly upgrade your license or choose an appropriate vehicle. Safety first—don't cut corners and harm yourself.
The Coaster is such a large vehicle that it definitely shouldn't be driven carelessly. I remember a friend once rented a car for a trip and wanted to drive this kind of bus, but he only had a C1 license. The staff said no because this vehicle has many seats and is heavy, falling under the medium-sized passenger vehicle category, which requires at least a B1 license to drive legally. If you force yourself to drive it, any incident on the road could be dangerous, and handling it would be difficult. People used to driving small cars often underestimate such large vehicles. So, I advise everyone to check their license type carefully and not act impulsively. It's better to spend more time obtaining a higher-level license to ensure driving safety, which is the key.
