How many seats can a C1 driver's license drive?
2 Answers
A C1 driver's license allows driving vehicles with 9 seats or fewer. The vehicle types permitted under a C1 license include small and micro passenger cars, light and micro cargo vehicles, and light, small, and micro special-purpose vehicles. Additionally, a C1 license holder can also drive the vehicle types permitted under C2, C3, and C4 licenses. A small car is defined as one with a total mass of less than 4.5 tons, seating capacity not exceeding 9 people, and a vehicle length under 6 meters. C1 license test items: The C1 license test consists of four examination items. The traffic regulations and related knowledge test, commonly known as the Subject 1 test; the field driving test, known as the Subject 2 test; the road driving test, also called the Subject 3 test, which includes 16 driving skills such as preparation for driving, starting, and straight-line driving. Subject 4: focuses on safe and civilized driving operation requirements, similar to Subject 1, it is a theoretical test. According to the "Motor Vehicle Driver's License Business Work Standards" issued by the relevant authorities, motor vehicle driver's licenses are implemented in a hierarchical system, dividing them into 15 levels: A1, A2, A3, B1, B2, C1, C2, C3, C4, D, E, F, M, N, P. The seating capacity permitted by different levels of driver's licenses is as follows: A1 license: A1 driver's license can drive large passenger vehicles with more than 20 seats; A2 license: A2 license can drive buses with 19 seats or fewer; A3 license: A3 license can drive city buses with a capacity of 10 people or more; C2 license: can drive automatic transmission cars with 7 seats or fewer and a vehicle length not exceeding 6 meters; B1 license: The vehicle types permitted under a B1 license are medium-sized buses, defined as those with a vehicle length less than 6 meters and a certified passenger capacity of 10 (inclusive) to 19 (inclusive) people; B2 license: B2 license can only drive vehicles with 9 seats or fewer and blue-plate small buses with a vehicle length under 6 meters.
I've held a C1 driver's license for many years and know that it allows me to drive small passenger vehicles with up to 9 seats, including the driver. According to Chinese traffic regulations, these vehicles must also be within 6 meters in length and have a total weight not exceeding 4.5 tons. In real life, I've seen friends mistakenly think they could drive 12-seater vans, only to be caught by traffic police for exceeding seat limits, resulting in fines and demerit points. For safety, always confirm the number of seats and vehicle length when choosing a car. I recommend using family MPVs or mini trucks, but avoid buses or large passenger vehicles. Regular vehicle maintenance and checking document details can prevent trouble and protect others' safety. Don't push the limits when driving—if necessary, consider upgrading your license.
