Can an A1 License Drive a C1 Vehicle?
2 Answers
A1 license can drive C1 vehicles because the A1 license has high requirements for the driver's driving skills. Therefore, there is no problem for an A1 license holder to drive a C1 vehicle, and there are no national regulations stating that an A1 license cannot drive a C1 vehicle. Below is the relevant introduction of the A1 license: Permitted vehicle types: The A1 license can drive large passenger vehicles with more than 20 people, as well as the permitted vehicle types of A3, B1, B2, C1, C2, C3, C4, and M. Permitted vehicle categories: The A3, B1, B2, C1, C2, C3, and C4 vehicle types are respectively: city buses, medium-sized passenger vehicles, large trucks, small cars, small automatic transmission cars, low-speed cargo vehicles, three-wheeled vehicles, and wheeled self-propelled machinery.
I've been studying driving license regulations, and I'm clear about this. In China, holders of an A1 license are fully qualified to drive C1 category vehicles—no doubt about it. The A1 license covers a wide range, including C1 small passenger cars, as the licensing system is designed to allow higher-tier licenses to be compatible with lower-tier vehicles. I've checked the 'Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driving Licenses,' which explicitly states that A1 permits driving B1, C1, and other vehicle types, meaning there's no issue driving a regular car. In practice, drivers who pass the A1 test have stronger driving skills, and handling a smaller car after being accustomed to larger vehicles is even easier. However, it's important to note that different vehicle types have different characteristics—for example, small cars have more responsive steering, so drivers should take time to adapt to avoid sudden turns or brakes. Personally, I recommend consulting the traffic authorities if unsure, to ensure the license is valid and rules are followed, which guarantees both legality and safety. In short, don’t worry—A1 drivers operating C1 vehicles is a common practice.
