How long after obtaining a C1 driver's license can you apply for a B2 driver's license?
3 Answers
C1 driver's license holders can apply for a B2 driver's license after one year. You can upgrade from a C1 to a B2 driver's license through an additional driving test. The B2 license allows you to operate heavy, medium-duty trucks or large, heavy, and medium-sized specialized operation vehicles. Requirements for upgrading to B2: Hold a C1 driver's license for at least one year; be between 20 and 60 years old; no record of accumulating 12 penalty points in the most recent scoring cycle before application; no outstanding traffic violations. The exam subjects for B2 and C1 are quite similar, both consisting of four sections (Subjects 1 to 4). The theoretical tests are largely the same, while Subjects 2 and 3 have significant changes. Specifically, Subject 2 (field driving skills test) has been expanded from 5 items to 16. Subject 3 (road driving skills test) adds complex road conditions such as mountainous areas, tunnels, and steep slopes on top of the original test items. The first 12 months after obtaining a B2 license is the probationary period for the B2 license, but the C1 license remains unaffected. This means you must follow probationary regulations when driving trucks with a B2 license, but not when driving passenger cars. The B2 license has no length or tonnage restrictions for operating large trucks, but it does not permit driving tractor-trailer trucks.
After obtaining a C1 driver's license, you must wait a full two years before you can apply for a B2 license upgrade. The two years mentioned here refer to a full 24 months starting from the initial issuance date on your license, not immediately after obtaining the license. Additionally, there is a strict requirement: you must not have any record of accumulating 12 penalty points within the previous two years. Last time I accompanied a friend to inquire at the driving school, the instructor specifically emphasized that if you have been involved in a major traffic accident, even if you haven’t accumulated 12 points, your application might still be rejected. Before registering, it’s best to go to the vehicle management office and print out your driving record from a self-service machine to confirm your eligibility for the upgrade.
I upgraded to a B2 license last year, and from personal experience: the countdown starts from the day you obtain your C1 license—you must wait at least 24 full months before applying. Back then, I went to the driving school right after my probation period ended, only to be turned away. The staff pointed to the notice board in the hall, stating three non-negotiable requirements: sufficient driving experience, no full-point penalty records recently, and being at least 20 years old. Also, a heads-up: if your C1 license gets 12 points deducted during the upgrade process, the entire exam progression will be suspended, and you'll have to retake traffic regulations training.
