Can an Automatic Transmission License Be Upgraded to a Manual Transmission License?
2 Answers
An automatic transmission license can be upgraded to a manual transmission license. 1. License Types: C1 allows driving both manual and automatic transmission small cars, while C2 only permits driving automatic transmission small cars. General vehicles cannot be driven. 2. Method of License Upgrade: After obtaining a C2 license, if one needs to drive a manual transmission car, they must apply for a C1 license upgrade. The applicant must re-register and pass the C1 license's subject one, two, and three exams to obtain the upgrade. More relevant information is as follows: 1. Manual Transmission is C1: The C1 driver's license permits driving small and micro passenger cars, as well as light, micro cargo vehicles, and small, micro special-purpose vehicles. Among these vehicle types, whether manual or automatic transmission, drivers holding a C1 license can operate them. 2. Automatic Transmission is C2: Manual transmission drivers can save fuel by selecting the appropriate gear. Generally, mechanical transmission cars are considered more fuel-efficient because mechanical transmissions have higher transmission efficiency, reducing transmission losses.
I previously researched the driver's license issue, and an automatic transmission license cannot be directly upgraded to a manual one. In most places, including our local C2 automatic transmission license, if you want to drive a manual transmission car, you must go through the manual transmission licensing process again. This means starting from scratch—enrolling in a driving school, reviewing theoretical rules, practicing basic operations like clutch control and gear shifting, and then passing both the theoretical and road tests to obtain a C1 manual transmission license. Why not allow a direct upgrade? Primarily, safety was considered in the regulation design—manual transmission requires additional skills, and driving directly on the road without them could be dangerous. I remember my friend tried to upgrade, but the DMV said he had to retake the test. It took him two to three weeks to finally get it done. I suggest checking local policies—don’t cut corners, safety first.
