Can I take the A1 driving test directly?
3 Answers
A1 cannot be tested directly. The following are the requirements for upgrading to A1: 1. Physical conditions: age between 26 and 50 years old, height above 155 cm, naked or corrected visual acuity of at least 5.0 on the logarithmic visual acuity chart. 2. Driving experience: must have held a medium-sized bus (B1) or large truck (B2) driving license for more than five years, with no full-point record in the last three scoring cycles before application; or have held a tractor (A2) driving license for more than two years, with no full-point record in the last scoring cycle before application. 3. Location conditions: can only be processed in the place of household registration.
I've also been researching about upgrading to an A1 license recently, as I want to drive buses for income. My friends at the driving school told me that you can't take the test directly—you must first enroll in training, going through both theoretical learning and practical operations. Generally, you need to have held a B license for at least 3 years with no record of major accidents. The A1 license is for large vehicles, which are complex to operate and have high safety requirements. Regulations mandate completing training before taking the second and third test sections. I suggest not trying to skip steps; instead, go straight to a certified driving school. Starting early can save time and avoid complications if policies change later. Practicing privately isn't an option either—without an instructor's signature, you won't pass the inspection.
As a veteran driver with over 20 years of experience, I wasn't allowed to take the A1 license test directly when upgrading. The rule is that you must complete the full training course at a driving school, including theory, reversing, and road tests. Large vehicles are different from others—they pose greater risks when driven, and accidents can cause significant harm. It was the same when I upgraded from a C license to a B license; the authorities enforce strict regulations. Requirements include being of appropriate age, passing a medical exam, and having a clean driving record. Don't try to cut corners—the training also teaches practical skills that make driving safer on the road.
