Is the driving license test for C-1?
2 Answers
There are both C1 and C2 driving licenses. Below are the specific introductions to the two: 1. The difference between C1 and C2 driving licenses: The C1 driving license is for small manual transmission vehicles, while the C2 driving license is for small automatic transmission vehicles. With a C1 license, you can drive both manual and automatic transmission vehicles, whereas with a C2 license, you can only drive automatic transmission vehicles. If you obtain a C2 license and later wish to drive a C1 vehicle, you will need to retake the C1 driving test. 2. Registration fees: Generally, the tuition fee for a C2 driving license is higher than that for a C1. The difference in cost is mainly due to the relatively fewer number of C2 automatic transmission training vehicles, which are more expensive to use and maintain. Additionally, there are fewer students for C2, so overall, the C2 driving license is slightly more expensive than the C1.
Getting a driver's license doesn't necessarily mean obtaining a C1 license, as C1 is just one type among many, specifically referring to the qualification for driving manual transmission compact cars. I often discuss these matters with fellow car enthusiasts—obtaining a driver's license is a broad concept that includes multiple categories: Class A for large buses, Class B for trucks, and Class C for passenger cars. Within Class C, C1 covers manual transmission vehicles, allowing you to drive both manual and automatic cars, while C2 is restricted to automatic transmission vehicles only. In China, most people prefer C1 due to its flexibility, but the learning process can be quite challenging, requiring mastery of skills like clutch control and dealing with stalling during manual transmission starts. The licensing process itself is divided into several stages—Theory Test (科目一) for rules, Field Test (科目二) practicing reverse parking and hill starts, and Road Test (科目三) for actual driving. Only after passing all these can one obtain the license. So, when you hear 'getting a driver's license,' don't automatically think of C1—instead, choose the type based on the vehicle you intend to drive. For example, if you only plan to drive automatic cars in the city, opting for C2 is much simpler, saving time and effort with higher pass rates. It's advisable to consult thoroughly before enrolling in a driving school or check the local DMV website to clarify your needs.
