Can I switch from C1 to C2 after reaching Subject 3?

[StRuth]

During the driver's license examination process, it is not possible to change the type of license being applied for midway. Since changing from C1 to C2 is considered a downgrade, if you fail to pass the C1 test and wish to switch to C2, you must re-enroll at the driving school, pay the price difference for the C1 to C2 conversion, and start over from Subject 1. According to China's "Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driver's Licenses": C1 driver's license scope: small and micro passenger vehicles, light and micro cargo vehicles. Light, small, and micro special-purpose vehicles. Small passenger vehicles carry no more than 9 people. Additionally, a C1 license allows driving vehicles permitted under C2, C3, and C4 licenses, including automatic transmission small cars, light and micro automatic transmission cargo vehicles, low-speed cargo vehicles, and three-wheeled vehicles. C1 license cannot drive: Large buses, tractors, city buses, medium-sized buses, large trucks, ordinary three-wheeled motorcycles, ordinary two-wheeled motorcycles, light motorcycles, wheeled bicycles, trolleybuses, trams, vehicles with 9 additional seats, or trucks with a total length not exceeding 6 meters. Subject 3: includes the road driving skills test and the safe and civilized driving knowledge test. It is part of the motor vehicle driver's license examination and is the abbreviated term for the road driving skills and safe and civilized driving knowledge test subjects in the motor vehicle driver's examination. The road driving skills test content varies for different license types. Test content: getting into the car, light simulation test, starting, driving straight, shifting gears, changing lanes, pulling over, going straight through intersections, turning left at intersections, turning right at intersections, crossing pedestrian crossings, passing school zones, passing bus stops, meeting vehicles, overtaking, making U-turns, and night driving. The safe driving knowledge test generally includes: safe and civilized driving operation requirements, safe driving knowledge in harsh weather and complex road conditions, emergency handling methods such as tire blowouts, and post-accident handling knowledge. Subject 3 test tips: Stay calm and avoid nervousness: Avoid being so nervous that you focus solely ahead and forget to observe the surroundings. Often, in such tense situations, many candidates make mistakes during turns or when yielding. Therefore, during the Subject 3 test, avoid fixating on the road ahead; always observe the surrounding traffic and rearview mirrors to prevent accidents. Familiarize yourself with the vehicle's gears: Do not overlook the easiest gear operations. Avoid instinctively looking at the gearshift when nervous or emotional. This action will result in immediate disqualification by the examiner, regardless of other aspects. Therefore, familiarize yourself with the vehicle's gears before taking the Subject 3 test. Master clutch control: Especially when shifting gears, skillfully operate the clutch pedal. In unexpected situations, respond quickly to leave a good impression of calmness on the safety officer, making it easier to pass the test.

[StephenLee]

I've been teaching at a driving school for over a decade and have seen many students wanting to switch to C2 (automatic transmission) during their Subject 3 training. This is entirely possible but requires following proper procedures. Generally, switching license types means retaking Subject 2 and Subject 3 exams, as C2 tests focus on automatic transmission operation without clutch pedal usage. I advise students to first consult their driving school about potential additional fees, as some locations may require extra training fees or schedule adjustments. From my experience, most students find C2 exams easier after switching since automatic cars drive smoother without stalling concerns. However, it's important to note that C2 license holders can only drive automatic vehicles - switching back to manual would require retesting. Consider whether this short-term convenience outweighs long-term flexibility. The school can handle most paperwork, and DMV procedures are relatively quick, but the key is not to waste training time by giving up midway.