What are the differences between C1 and C2 driver's licenses?
2 Answers
The differences between C1 and C2 driver's licenses lie in the types of vehicles they permit: a C1 license allows driving small cars and vehicles covered by C2, C3, and C4 licenses; a C2 license permits driving small and micro automatic passenger cars, as well as light and micro automatic trucks. The vehicles allowed for different licenses are: C1 license holders can drive small cars, micro passenger cars, light and micro trucks, and special-purpose vehicles; C3 license holders can drive low-speed trucks; C4 license holders can drive three-wheeled cars. Driver's licenses are certifications required by law in the People's Republic of China for individuals operating motor vehicles. Anyone driving civil motor vehicles on public roads must apply for a motor vehicle driver's license in accordance with relevant regulations.
When I first learned to drive, I chose the C1 license. I found manual transmission more complex to operate but more versatile. A C1 license allows you to drive both manual and automatic cars, including light trucks, with a broad range of applications. The driving test uses a manual transmission car with a clutch, and stalling on the slope start during the second subject is common. The C2 license only permits driving automatic cars—just shift to D and go. The test uses an automatic car, making it easier without a clutch to worry about. My friends who got their C2 license in two months praised its convenience, and indeed, automatic cars are everywhere now, making life easier. However, having a C1 license has its perks—like the time I helped a relative move using a small manual truck. For beginners, it's advisable to consider your needs: if you want quick results, go for C2; if you aim to master an extra skill or have a manual car at home, C1 is more practical.
