Driving Test Age Restrictions?
4 Answers
There is no longer a maximum age limit for obtaining a driver's license. With the deepening of reforms in streamlining administration and delegating power, certain adjustments have been made to the age requirements for applying for and using some types of driver's licenses. Below is a detailed introduction to the age regulations for obtaining a driver's license: 1. Large and medium-sized passenger and cargo vehicles: The upper age limit for applying for B1, B2, and A1 licenses has been adjusted from 50 to 60 years old. 2. C1 driver's license: The upper age limit for applying for a C1 driver's license has been removed, allowing individuals to take the test for life as long as they meet the physical requirements. 3. A1 and A2 driver's licenses: The lower age limits for applying have been adjusted from 26 and 24 years old to 22 years old, respectively.
I remember when I took my driver's license test, I had just turned 18. Age is indeed a strict requirement. For regular cars, both C1 and C2 licenses require you to be at least 18 years old. However, if you want to get a B license for large trucks or buses, you must be at least 20. My buddy wanted to drive long-distance coaches but got stuck due to age—you have to be at least 22 to qualify for an A license. There’s also a detail many people don’t know: you can’t get a new driver's license after the age of 70, but seniors who already have one can continue driving as long as they pass an annual medical checkup. My driving instructor often said, 'Don’t delay learning to drive.' Some students in their 40s or 50s clearly have slower reaction times and often hit the lines when reversing into parking spots. So, once you’re an adult, get your license as soon as possible—it’s easier to learn while your reflexes are still sharp.
Last week, my neighbor's high school student came to ask about the driving test, and I checked the latest traffic regulations for him. Simply put, it's divided into three categories: you must be at least 18 years old to drive a private car; you need to be over 20 years old to drive a large truck or bus; and for professional vehicles like trailers or coaches, you must be at least 22 years old. A special case is the motorcycle E license, which also starts at 18 years old. I also specifically noted the age limit of 70, beyond which you can't take the test, but there are quite a few uncles and aunts over 60 taking the C license test—as long as they pass the medical exam, they can still get the license. I recommend young people to sign up right after the college entrance exam, as summer vacation offers plenty of time. Back in my day, I got my license in just three months.
Last time when I accompanied my mother-in-law to sign up for driving school, I finally understood the age requirements. For small car licenses like C1 and C2, you can take the test as long as you're 18 years old, but it's more complicated for larger vehicles: for example, you need to be 21 for a medium-sized bus and 22 for a tractor. Elderly people should pay special attention, as 70 years old is the upper limit—exceeding it by even one day means you can't take the test. However, there's a heartwarming policy: learners aged 60 and above can apply for an automatic transmission test, making it much easier without needing to use the clutch. Coach Wang from the driving school quietly mentioned that they arrange two extra one-on-one sessions for learners over 40, since their reflexes aren't as sharp as younger folks. So, if your child turns 18, urge them to start learning—the earlier they get their license, the better.
