How long does it take to upgrade to an A1 license?
3 Answers
Upgrading to an A1 license varies by region, generally taking three to five months. Below is a brief introduction: 1. Local upgrade: To upgrade your driver's license locally, you need to pay at a driving school, learn to drive, and take the test. Fees vary by region, and the learning period is typically 2 months. 2. Non-local upgrade: You cannot upgrade your license in a non-local area; it must be done in the jurisdiction where your driver's license is registered. If you wish to upgrade in a non-local area, you must transfer your household registration to that area and hold an ID card from the registered jurisdiction to meet the local upgrade requirements. The following situations disqualify you from upgrading to an A1 license: (1) Having a record of drunk driving during the current scoring cycle and the three most recent consecutive scoring cycles before application. (2) Speeding over 50% during the current scoring cycle and the three most recent consecutive scoring cycles before application, without having your license revoked. (3) Causing casualties in a traffic accident and being fully or primarily responsible.
The time required to upgrade to an A1 driver's license varies, based on my personal experience, typically ranging from 1 to 3 months. You must first meet the conditions, such as holding a C1 license for at least 5 years and passing a medical examination, before you can apply. At the driving school, theoretical training takes about a week, focusing on regulations and safety knowledge. Then comes the practical training, including both yard and road tests, with 2 to 3 hours of practice daily, accumulating at least 100 kilometers of training—this phase usually takes about three to four weeks. The examination process is the most time-consuming, as both the written test and road test require queuing for appointments, which can take one to two weeks during peak times. If you manage your time well, such as studying full-time, you can speed up the process, but it may take longer if you're busy with work. It's advisable to plan your schedule in advance, avoid rushing, and prioritize safety. In short, consult local driving schools for details to minimize unexpected delays.
I still remember clearly that it took me just over two months to upgrade my license to A1. First, there was signing up and preparing documents, which took a few days to confirm eligibility. The theoretical part was a mix of online self-study and in-person classes, and I managed to complete it in five days with a tight schedule. Once the driving training started, I went three times a week, practicing for about an hour each session, and it took five weeks to get proficient. The exam period was stressful—waiting a week for the written test and another 10 days for the road test. Looking back now, the teaching methods of driving school instructors can really affect the pace. The class I chose was relaxed but dragged on. If you really want to speed things up, high-intensity daily training might cut it down to five weeks, but it depends on whether your body can handle it. For daily practice, it’s best to combine simulator training, and before the exam, review common mistakes instead of just rote memorization.
