
C1 to C2 change generally takes about a week, and an appointment needs to be made in advance. Here is the relevant information: Downgrading the driver's license: Changing from C1 to C2 is considered a downgrade. When making the change, you need to go to the traffic management office to fill out a downgrade confirmation form and sign it. Before taking the subject one exam, you can negotiate with the driving school to change the relevant procedures and pay the additional fees to apply for a C2 driver's license. The difference between C1 and C2 is that C1 allows driving both manual and automatic transmission vehicles, while C2 only permits driving automatic transmission vehicles. Therefore, after downgrading the license, the range of vehicles available for driving is significantly reduced.

I'm a driving instructor who has been coaching students for license upgrades for years. You asked how long it takes to schedule an exam for changing from C1 to C2. Actually, a C1 license already allows you to drive automatic transmission vehicles, so upgrading to C2 isn't really necessary. But if you insist on proceeding, first submit an upgrade application at the traffic bureau or driving school with your ID card and a copy of your C1 license. Then undergo two to three weeks of automatic transmission training, covering both theory and practical skills. Once completed, the driving school will help submit your exam scheduling request. The waiting period is typically five to ten days, depending on how busy the local testing center is—during peak seasons like summer vacation, it might extend beyond two weeks. The entire process, from registration to exam scheduling, can be completed within a month at the fastest, usually quicker in smaller cities. I recommend getting a health check-up done in advance to ensure no medical issues, then using a mobile app to schedule the exam to save time. Never overlook safety rules to avoid exam delays. The driving school will also follow up and remind you of the progress.

I just passed my C2 driver's license test, originally holding a C1 license. After registration, I underwent three weeks of intensive automatic transmission training at the driving school. Upon completion, the instructor suggested scheduling the subject two test directly. Using the traffic app, it took me four days to secure a test slot—some places can arrange it within a week, depending on local queue conditions. In my city, with fewer candidates, the process was quick. The entire scheduling process took about a week, and I passed smoothly. If you're in a hurry, coordinate with your driving school to prepare materials in advance, such as ID copies and photos, to avoid delays. Waiting times vary significantly by region—it was faster in my second-tier city, while a friend in Beijing waited two weeks. In short, thorough preparation speeds up the scheduling process.

I've been driving a taxi for over 20 years, and new drivers often ask me about license matters. You want to change from C1 to C2 and schedule an exam? First, go to the transportation department to fill out an application for an additional license. You can schedule the exam right after completing the training. The waiting period is usually about one to two weeks; it might take longer in smaller towns with more applicants, while in big cities, it could be delayed. In my case, it took a week to schedule the second subject exam. Don't rush—solid training comes first for safety. Policies vary by region, so check your local procedures to avoid hassle.


