Is there an additional fee for changing from a C1 to a C2 driver's license?
2 Answers
C1 to C2 driver's license conversion does not require payment at the vehicle management office, as it is considered a downgrade. Only the submission of documents and a signature are needed. However, driving schools may charge differently. Since changing the license level involves switching to automatic transmission vehicles, which are more expensive than manual transmission vehicles and have higher maintenance costs, the registration fee for learning to drive with a C2 license is generally higher than for a C1 license. C1 Driver's License: A C1 driver's license is one of the codes for motor vehicle driving licenses. The scope of a C1 license includes small and micro passenger vehicles, light and micro cargo vehicles, as well as light, small, and micro special-purpose vehicles. Small passenger vehicles must have a seating capacity of 9 or fewer people. Age Requirements: The minimum age to apply for a C1 driver's license is 18 years old, with no upper age limit. However, applicants aged 70 and above must pass tests assessing memory, judgment, and reaction abilities.
I've been a driving instructor for over a decade and seen this issue too often. Switching from C1 to C2 usually requires re-signing the contract because automatic transmission courses are about a thousand yuan cheaper than manual. Currently in Beijing, C1 costs over 7,000 yuan while C2 is just over 6,000. If you've already taken seven or eight lessons, the driving school may deduct some session fees before refunding the difference. Remember to bring your original ID card to the registration office to amend the contract, and don't delay until after the Subject 2 test – system modifications become much more troublesome then. I recommend deciding early; recently a student delayed switching until right before the test and ended up wasting nearly half a month.
