Can a C2 License Drive Manual Transmission Vehicles?
2 Answers
C2 license holders are not permitted to drive manual transmission vehicles. The authorized vehicle types for a C2 license are small and micro automatic transmission passenger cars, as well as light and micro automatic transmission cargo vehicles. If a C2 license holder is caught driving a manual transmission vehicle, they will be penalized as driving without a license. According to relevant regulations, operating a motor vehicle requires obtaining a motor vehicle driving license in accordance with the law. The full name of the driving license is the motor vehicle driving license, also known as a 'driver's license,' which is a certificate required by law for individuals to operate motor vehicles. Driving a motor vehicle requires certain driving skills, and without these skills, driving a motor vehicle recklessly could lead to traffic accidents. Generally, individuals cannot drive on the road without a license.
As a new driver who just got my C2 license, I specifically asked my instructor about this. A C2 license only allows you to drive automatic transmission cars, because the test vehicle doesn't have a clutch. If you want to drive manual transmission, you must get a C1 license. I have a friend who got fined for this—when the traffic police checked his car, they found him driving a manual with a C2 license, resulting in a 9-point deduction and a 500-yuan fine. Manual transmission requires clutch control for gear shifting, which isn't taught in C2 training. Honestly, driving manual is quite fun, though hill starts in winter can be tricky with stalling. If you want the flexibility to switch between both types, I recommend getting a C1 license directly—it’s more convenient.
