Should you shift gears or release the handbrake first when starting a C1 vehicle?
2 Answers
When starting the vehicle, you should shift gears first, then release the handbrake. When parking, you should engage the handbrake first, then shift to neutral. What is a C1 driver's license: A C1 driver's license is one of the codes for motor vehicle driving licenses. The permitted driving scope of a C1 license includes small and mini passenger vehicles, light and mini cargo vehicles; light, small, and mini special-purpose vehicles; and small passenger vehicles with seating capacity of 9 or fewer. Age requirements: The minimum age for a C1 license is 18 years old, with no upper age limit. However, applicants aged 70 and above must pass tests on memory, judgment, and reaction abilities. Permitted vehicle types for a C1 driver's license: The permitted driving scope of a C1 license includes small and mini passenger vehicles, light and mini cargo vehicles; light, small, and mini special-purpose vehicles; and small passenger vehicles with seating capacity of 9 or fewer. Vehicles not permitted with a C1 license: large buses, tractors, city buses, medium buses, large trucks, regular three-wheeled motorcycles, regular two-wheeled motorcycles, light motorcycles, wheeled self-propelled machinery, trolleybuses, and trams. Additionally, a C1 license does not permit driving vehicles with more than 9 seats or trucks with a total length exceeding 6 meters.
When I first started driving, I was particularly confused about the sequence. The instructor taught me that when parking, the handbrake must be firmly engaged, and before starting, you must first press the clutch and shift into first gear. This allows the engine to transfer power to the wheels, preventing the car from rolling. Then, slowly release the clutch while gently pressing the accelerator. Once you feel a slight vibration from the car, release the handbrake. If you do it the other way around, especially on slopes like in parking lots, the car might roll backward, which is extremely dangerous. I've now developed a habit of silently reciting the steps every time I start: clutch down, shift into first gear, slowly release the clutch while giving gas, and finally release the handbrake. This not only protects the transmission but also enhances safety. Beginners should practice this a few times during driving lessons to get the hang of it quickly.
