Can I switch from C1 to C2 after failing the second subject test 4 times?
4 Answers
If you have failed the C1 driver's license subject 2 test four times, you cannot switch to C2. During the process of obtaining a driver's license, you cannot change the license level midway. Since changing from C1 to C2 is considered a downgrade, you can only re-enroll in a driving school, pay the price difference for switching from C1 to C2, and then start over from subject 1. C1 driver's license test: The test subjects include four items: traffic regulations and related knowledge, field driving, road driving, and safe and civilized driving knowledge. Passing standards: Traffic regulations and related knowledge (subject 1) - written test, full score is 100, 90 or above is passing. Field driving (subject 2) - on-site, actual vehicle. The minimum requirement is 80 points, below 80 is failing. Road driving (subject 3) - highway or simulated field, actual vehicle. Full score is 100, must achieve 90 or above to pass. Safe and civilized driving knowledge - written test, questions mainly in the form of cases, pictures, animations, etc., question types include true/false, single-choice, and multiple-choice, a total of 50 questions, full score is 100, 90 is passing.
I remember experiencing this situation myself. I failed the C1 Subject 2 test four times and felt enormous pressure, so I consulted my driving school instructor. The instructor said it’s entirely possible to switch to C2—the automatic transmission test is much simpler without the clutch control part, making it easier to handle. The specific process involves contacting the DMV or driving school to submit a transfer application, which may require paying some fees again and taking additional theory classes. However, the Subject 2 test items remain the same, such as reverse parking and parallel parking, but the vehicle operation is much easier. The downside of switching to C2 is that you can only drive automatic transmission cars, but if you don’t drive manual cars in daily life, it’s very practical. I recommend switching early to avoid wasting time and using up all your chances.
With extensive driving experience and having instructed many students, switching from C1 to C2 is a common and policy-allowed choice. Operationally, automatic transmissions eliminate the clutch and gear-shifting process, making the second subject test easier to pass and reducing failure rates. The procedure involves directly approaching the driving school to request the switch—they will assist with the paperwork, possibly requiring a small additional fee or schedule adjustments, but the process is faster and less stressful. Obtaining a C2 license restricts you to driving automatic transmission vehicles, which means less hassle and suits urban commuting but reduces flexibility. For those who have taken multiple tests, the psychological burden is significantly lighter, allowing quicker licensing and getting on the road.
I have a friend who failed the C1 license driving test four times and decided to switch to C2. The actual operation went quite smoothly. The automatic transmission test eliminates manual operations, making items like hill starts in the driving test easier and less prone to stalling. The process of switching involves contacting the driving school and filling out a form, usually arranged within a few days with low fees. After passing, you can only drive automatic transmission cars, which is sufficient for daily use, but it's a pity if you prefer manual transmission. It's recommended to switch directly without persistence to save time and energy for further preparation.
