Can a driver's license be upgraded back from C1 to B1 after downgrading from B1 to C1?
3 Answers
To restore a B1 driver's license after it has been downgraded to C1, you must take and pass the upgrade examination as required by regulations. To upgrade from a C1 to a B1 driver's license, the following requirements must be met: Hold a C1 driver's license for more than three years; No record of accumulating 12 penalty points in any of the last three consecutive scoring cycles; Age between 21 and 50 years old; Height of at least 150 centimeters; Visual acuity of at least 5.0 on the logarithmic visual acuity chart for both eyes, either uncorrected or corrected; Ability to distinguish the direction of sound sources with each ear at a distance of 50 centimeters from a tuning fork; Upper limbs with both thumbs intact and at least three other fingers intact on each hand, with normal limb and finger movement function; Lower limbs that are intact and have normal movement function, with a length difference of no more than 5 centimeters.
After downgrading from a B1 to a C1 driver's license, it is indeed possible to upgrade back to B1. A few years ago, I was downgraded due to vision issues, but later, wanting to earn money by driving minibuses, I inquired at the DMV. The whole process isn't too difficult, but it must be done step by step: first, undergo a comprehensive medical exam to ensure your eyes and body meet the requirements, then enroll in a driving school to relearn, taking both the theoretical and practical tests just like a beginner. It took me three months, passing the theory test (Subject 1) and skills like reversing (Subject 2), costing about 800 yuan. Once passed, my C1 was upgraded back to B1. The key is to avoid traffic violations during the downgrade period and maintain a good record. Now, I can drive medium-sized buses, which is quite practical. If you're considering this, don't delay—get the medical check and enrollment done early, as age restrictions may apply, making it harder after 60.
It is feasible to upgrade from a C1 to a B1 driver's license, and I know many people have succeeded. You need to apply for the upgrade qualification at the local vehicle management office. The general process is: first, get a health certificate from a hospital, focusing on vision and reaction tests; then bring your ID card and C1 license to the vehicle management office to submit the application; next, take all driving tests, including the written and road tests, and upon passing, you’ll receive the B1 license. This process takes a few months and may cost around 500-1000 yuan. The key is to ensure you don’t have serious violations on record, such as drunk driving, which could affect your success rate. I once helped a friend inquire about this, and he successfully upgraded to drive a truck. In short, don’t worry about getting stuck—practice your driving skills in advance, study the rulebook thoroughly, and your pass rate will improve. I recommend doing it while you’re young to avoid potential policy changes that might increase the difficulty.
