Can the C1 and E licenses be taken together?
3 Answers
C1 and E licenses can be taken simultaneously. Here are the relevant details: Requirements: It is stipulated that the C1 driver's license must be held for at least one year before applying for the E license. You cannot obtain both licenses at the same time; you must wait until you have held the C1 license for a full year before you can apply for the E license. No full-point record: To apply for an additional large passenger vehicle, three-wheeled vehicle, or light motorcycle license, you must not have a full-point record in the most recent scoring cycle before applying; or you must have obtained a city bus driver's license. Regulations: When applying for an additional license category, you must not have a full-point record in the current scoring cycle and the most recent scoring cycle before applying. You must already hold a motor vehicle driver's license, a large passenger vehicle license, a low-speed truck, or a three-wheeled vehicle license for at least three years.
Last time I went to get my driver's license, I was really curious about this question. C1 is for manual transmission cars, and E is for motorcycles. The instructor said the testing center usually requires them to be handled separately and can't be taken on the same day. You have to pass the theory part first, then the field and road tests are managed separately. I tried taking the C1 first and then applied for the E license, with a few days in between for the test arrangements. I felt the test contents were too different—one involves steering wheel operation, the other throttle and brakes—so it's easy to get confused and split your focus when learning. I suggest consulting the local DMV for specific policies, as they may vary by region. But I think taking them separately allows for better focus and mastery. If you fail, you can concentrate on just one. In short, safety comes first—don't skip basic training just to save time.
As someone with over a decade of driving experience, I've seen many beginners try to take shortcuts, but in practice, the C1 and E license tests are essentially conducted independently. In the licensing system, each certificate corresponds to a specific examination process. After the theoretical exam, the field road tests are scheduled separately, and applying for both simultaneously might disrupt the arrangements. I believe taking them separately is more reasonable because the handling techniques for cars and motorcycles differ significantly. Trying to practice both at once can be distracting and might lead to failing the tests. It's better to focus on one certificate first—for example, obtain the C1 license and then, after some time, tackle the E license. This way, the foundation will be more solid. The key is to thoroughly understand the traffic regulations and requirements, avoiding rushing blindly and delaying the licensing progress.
