How long of a van can a C1 license drive?

[StHannah]

C1 license holders can drive light-duty cargo vans with a maximum length of 6 meters (including 6 meters), a maximum gross vehicle weight of 4,500kg (including 4,500kg), and an approved load capacity below 1,500kg. Permitted vehicle types: The C1 driving license covers small and mini passenger vehicles, as well as light and mini cargo vehicles; light, small, and mini special-purpose vehicles; and small passenger vehicles with a seating capacity of 9 or fewer people. C1 license holders cannot drive: large buses, tractor units, city buses, medium-sized buses, heavy-duty trucks, regular three-wheeled motorcycles, regular two-wheeled motorcycles, mopeds, wheeled self-propelled machinery, trolleybuses, or trams. Additionally, C1 license holders cannot drive vehicles with more than 9 seats or trucks with a total length exceeding 6 meters. What is a C1 driving license: The C1 driving license is one of the classifications for motor vehicle driving licenses in China. It permits the operation of small and mini passenger vehicles, light and mini cargo vehicles; light, small, and mini special-purpose vehicles; and small passenger vehicles with a seating capacity of 9 or fewer people.

[DelMargaret]

After obtaining a C1 driver's license in China, my main concern when driving a van is that the vehicle length must not exceed 6 meters, as stipulated by regulations. I've previously driven small delivery vans for the company, which were around 5.5 meters long, and found them relatively easy to handle. Don't think exceeding the limit slightly is okay—if you accidentally drive an oversized van exceeding 6 meters on the road, traffic police may penalize you for unlicensed driving, with penalties ranging from point deductions and fines to vehicle towing. I recommend choosing common models like the Jinbei Haise. When measuring, just check the full length from the bumper to the rear in the manual. Also, remember the vehicle weight must be under 4.5 tons for safety and compliance, making turns much more stable when delivering in suburban areas. Before purchasing, it's best to test drive with a friend to assess handling—don’t just focus on price and overlook size details.

[LucyMarie]

I've been driving for over a decade. With a C1 license, you can indeed drive small vans that don't exceed 6 meters in length, like those short-sized box trucks commonly used for household moving or vegetable delivery. My family's van is a 5.8-meter Foton model, which is agile when starting, easy to park, and puts less pressure on lane changes during traffic jams. If it exceeds 6 meters, handling becomes difficult, and it's prone to scratches when driving on mountain roads or at urban intersections. Also, pay attention to the vehicle weight; if it exceeds 4.5 tons, you'll need to upgrade to a B2 license. Beginners should first attend driving school for practical training if they're unsure. When renting a vehicle, always check the body length data on the registration certificate to avoid mistakenly renting an oversized vehicle. Safety first—don't be careless. During maintenance, measure the distance from the tires to the front of the vehicle to help with judgment.

[KingAnn]

From a safety perspective, it makes sense for a C1 driver's license to limit the length of a van to no more than 6 meters. Imagine driving a large vehicle with less responsive handling, which could easily roll over or hit a wall during high-speed turns, endangering others. Short-length vans under 6 meters, like the 5-meter small van I've driven, offer good visibility and stable braking. When purchasing, avoid modified or extended vehicles—they must meet standards from the factory. The checking method is simple: the exact parameters are listed on the vehicle registration certificate—don’t rely on the brand logo, check the numbers. If it exceeds the limit, return the vehicle and update the license immediately—don’t take risks. Also, keeping the vehicle weight lighter ensures shorter braking distances.