Can I directly take the B2 driving license test?
2 Answers
You can directly take the B2 driving license test. Here is relevant information about B2: Permitted vehicles: The B2 license allows you to drive heavy-duty, medium-duty trucks or large, heavy, and medium-sized specialized operation vehicles. Heavy-duty and medium-duty trucks are primarily trucks, such as the large dump trucks commonly seen on roads hauling construction waste, which fall under the category of heavy-duty trucks. Difference from A2: The difference between the A2 and B2 licenses is that the A2 is a tractor license, which is for vehicles consisting of a tractor head and a trailer; whereas the B2 is for single-unit cargo trucks.
Recently, while learning about driver's license types at the driving school, I was also curious whether one can directly apply for a B2 license. To be honest, in China's driving regulations, the B2 license is classified as a heavy truck license and cannot be directly applied for as a new learner like the C license. Typically, you need to first obtain a C1 or C2 small vehicle license and wait for at least one year before applying for a B2 upgrade. This rule ensures that you have basic driving experience, preventing novice drivers from operating large vehicles too soon, which could increase accident risks. The upgrade process also requires passing a medical examination, the theoretical test (Subject 1), the field driving test (Subject 2), and the road test (Subject 3), which may take several months in total. I recommend that beginners start with a C license to accumulate driving skills before upgrading, as it’s safer and more reliable. Don’t forget to check the local DMV policies, as some regions have stricter age requirements (e.g., you must be at least 21 years old) to avoid unnecessary trips.
