Can only the owner drive a commercial vehicle?
2 Answers
Commercial vehicles are not limited to being driven only by the owner. Any driver with a road transport professional qualification certificate can operate a commercial vehicle. Commercial vehicles and their operators are separate entities, and there is no binding between the vehicle's commercial license and the driver's road transport professional qualification certificate. When applying to become a commercial driver, the applicant must possess a motor vehicle driver's license and a non-professional driver training completion certificate. To apply for a professional qualification certificate for large passenger vehicles or articulated vehicles, in addition to the above requirements, other conditions must be met. For example, to apply for a large passenger vehicle qualification certificate, the applicant must have held a Class A license for more than two years; to apply for an articulated vehicle qualification certificate, the applicant must have held a Class B license for more than two years. Vehicles engaged in road transport activities for profit-making purposes can be referred to as commercial vehicles. These include vehicles that generate and obtain economic benefits through transport related to business activities, such as taxis, contracted minibuses, private large dump trucks, and small trucks.
I've been driving commercial vehicles for several years, and people often ask about this. The owner doesn't necessarily have to drive the commercial vehicle themselves. According to the law, as long as the driver has the corresponding professional qualification certificate and driver's license, it's acceptable. For example, truck drivers need a B2 license, and taxi drivers require a service certificate. Owners can hire professional drivers or engage in cooperative operations to improve operational efficiency. In practice, it's common for fleets to have day and night shift rotations, but safety comes first—regular training and inspections are essential. Ignoring the rules can easily lead to accidents, and insurance may refuse to pay, leaving the owner to cover fines. The key is to register the vehicle's purpose with the vehicle management office and ensure drivers have the necessary documents to avoid trouble. These regulations ensure road safety, giving owners peace of mind and the opportunity to earn more.