Do I need to take an exam to upgrade my driver's license from C1 to B2?
2 Answers
Upgrading a driver's license from C1 to B2 requires taking an exam. The examination process is as follows: To upgrade from C1 to B2, you must start from Subject 1 again. The contents of Subject 1, Subject 3, and Subject 4 remain unchanged, which are the theoretical test, road test, and safe and civilized driving test, respectively. As for Subject 2, it includes the following: stake test, slope fixed-point parking and starting, parallel parking, passing a single-plank bridge, curve driving, right-angle turning, passing a width-limited gate, passing continuous obstacles, bumpy road driving, narrow road U-turns, as well as simulated highway driving, continuous sharp turns on mountain roads, tunnels, rain (fog) weather, slippery roads, and emergency handling. The specific process for applying for a B2 driver's license: Apply to the Vehicle Management Office for adding the B2 license to the permitted driving types; fill out the application form for adding a permitted driving type, submit your ID card and physical examination form, and provide the original copy of your current motor vehicle driver's license; participate in the theoretical and practical exams according to the schedule; within 7 working days after passing the exams, the applying Vehicle Management Office will issue a new-level driver's license.
I've been driving for many years, and upgrading from C1 to B2 definitely requires taking exams. Speaking from personal experience, the process isn't easy. For the theory test, you need to review traffic rules, including special regulations for freight vehicles, which must be thoroughly understood. The road test is even more critical—you must operate an actual truck to complete various maneuvers, such as reversing into a bay and parallel parking. What's easy in a small car becomes much more challenging in a large vehicle. I recommend finding a good driving school and practicing for several weeks before rushing to register, as failing once means spending more money and time on retakes. After passing, you'll also need a medical checkup to confirm you're physically fit. Once you get your upgraded license, driving feels different, and you must constantly remind yourself to maintain extra distance for safety. These exams are necessary to ensure everyone truly knows how to handle large vehicles—don't cut corners for convenience.
