What are the differences between C1, C2, C3, and C4?
2 Answers
The differences between small vehicle licenses C1, C2, C3, and C4 lie in their permitted driving categories: 1. C1 can drive vehicles covered by C2, C3, and C4: The C1 license permits driving small cars. Permitted vehicles include small and micro passenger vehicles, light and micro cargo vehicles, as well as light and micro special-purpose vehicles. 2. C2 can drive vehicles covered by C3 and C4: The C2 license does not permit driving small manual transmission cars covered by C1. Permitted categories include small automatic transmission cars. Permitted vehicles: small and micro automatic transmission passenger vehicles and light and micro automatic transmission cargo vehicles. 3. C3 can drive vehicles covered by C4: The C3 license does not permit driving automatic transmission cars covered by C2. Permitted category: low-speed cargo vehicles. Permitted vehicles: low-speed cargo vehicles. 4. C4 license does not permit driving low-speed cargo vehicles covered by C3: Permitted category: three-wheeled vehicles. Permitted vehicles: three-wheeled vehicles.
When I first started learning to drive, I found that the differences between C1 and C2 licenses are the most commonly misunderstood. A C1 license allows you to drive both manual and automatic transmission small vehicles, and during driving lessons, you'll practice gear shifting more, but it offers higher practicality. C2 is limited to automatic transmission vehicles, making the test simpler, and is suitable for those frequently stuck in city traffic. C3 is specifically for low-speed cargo vehicles, such as small trucks commonly seen in rural areas or construction sites. C4 is designed for three-wheeled vehicles, like delivery trikes. Overall, C1 is the most flexible, which is why many people opt for it, though it costs a bit more. C2 is hassle-free but restricts you to automatic transmissions. C3 and C4 are more tailored to specific jobs—if you plan to drive a pickup or haul goods, you’ll need to consider these options. Don’t get it wrong, or you might face trouble if stopped by the police with the wrong license.
