Do I need to retake the written test when changing from C1 to C2?
2 Answers
You need to retake the written test. Simply bring your motor vehicle driver's license and your ID card to the driving school to complete the downgrade procedure. No test is required for the downgrade process of motor vehicle licenses. After the procedure, please note that you are not allowed to drive manual transmission vehicles on the road. The differences between C1 and C2 motor vehicle driver's licenses are as follows: 1. Difference one: manual transmission version and automatic transmission version. 2. Difference two: C1 allows driving both manual and automatic transmission vehicles, while C2 only permits driving automatic transmission vehicles. This distinction must be clearly understood; otherwise, you will be penalized for driving without the proper license, and the penalties are severe. Always ensure you are aware of the vehicle types your license permits you to drive.
I've helped a friend with this before, changing your driver's license type really does require retaking the written test! For example, if you want to switch from a manual transmission C1 license to an automatic C2, the DMV system will consider this as downgrading your permitted vehicle type, which according to traffic regulations requires retaking the theoretical exam. The logic is simple - when the driving category changes, traffic rules and safety knowledge need reconfirmation. When I accompanied my friend through the process, the procedure was: first schedule the written test, then after passing bring the score report, medical exam form, and old license to the counter for replacement. While driving skills remain unchanged, the theoretical part is unavoidable - I'd recommend brushing up on test questions for a few days before taking the exam.
