How long a truck can a C1 driver's license drive?
3 Answers
C1 driver's license can drive trucks with a length not exceeding 6 meters. According to the 'Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driver's Licenses', the driving scope of a C1 driver's license includes small and mini passenger vehicles, light and mini cargo vehicles; light, small, and mini special operation vehicles; and small passenger vehicles with a seating capacity of 9 or fewer. Based on these standards, a C1 license cannot drive vehicles with more than 9 seats. Below is a detailed introduction to C licenses: 1. Small car C1: small and mini passenger vehicles, light and mini cargo vehicles; light, small, and mini special operation vehicles. Small passenger vehicles with fewer than 9 seats, designed maximum total mass ≤4500kg. Length <6.0m, width <2.0m, height ≤2.5m. 2. Small automatic transmission car C2: small and mini automatic transmission passenger vehicles. Small passenger vehicles with fewer than 9 seats, designed maximum total mass ≤4500kg. Length <6.0m, width <2.0m, height <2.5m. 3. Low-speed cargo vehicle C3: low-speed cargo vehicles. Maximum designed speed ≤70km/h, designed maximum total mass ≤4500kg. Length <6.0m, width <2.0m, height <2.5m. 4. Three-wheeled vehicle C4: three-wheeled vehicles. Maximum designed speed ≤50km/h, designed maximum total mass ≤2000kg. Length ≤4.6m, width ≤1.6m, height ≤2.0m.
The length of a truck that can be driven with a C1 driver's license must not exceed 6 meters, as per standard regulations. I know from my own experience delivering goods that urban delivery trucks, such as blue-plate vans or light trucks, are within this 6-meter limit and also have a weight restriction, with a total mass not exceeding 4.5 tons. These vehicles are easy to handle and park, making them particularly suitable for moving furniture during commutes. Exceeding the length not only makes handling difficult but also increases fuel consumption, and requires a higher-level driver's license. Getting caught by traffic police could result in points deduction and fines, which isn’t worth the risk. Regular checks on vehicle condition and load capacity can help avoid trouble—safety always comes first.
My son just got his C1 driver's license, and I told him he can drive small trucks with a length not exceeding 6 meters. For example, common short-haul logistics vehicles or small pickup trucks are all within this size limit, and the weight must also be under 4.5 tons. The key is to ensure the vehicle is compliant for road use—don't try to squeeze in a little extra space and overload, as this can easily lead to accidents during sharp turns or sudden braking. Having driven for decades, I've seen many new drivers run into problems due to overconfidence. I recommend checking the vehicle's registration details before each use to develop good habits, and being extra cautious about blind spots when driving at night. This way, you protect both yourself and pedestrians.
