What are the differences between C1, C2, C3, and C4?

[Lena]

The differences between C1, C2, C3, and C4 are as follows: 1. Different permitted vehicle types: C1 can drive the permitted vehicle types of C2, C3, and C4. The permitted vehicle types for a C1 license include small cars. Permitted vehicles: small and micro passenger cars, as well as light and micro cargo vehicles; light and micro special-purpose vehicles. C2 can drive the permitted vehicle types of C3 and C4; C3 can drive the permitted vehicle types of C4; a C4 license cannot drive the low-speed cargo vehicles permitted by a C3 license. 2. Different required learning hours: C1 requires 62 hours. C2 requires 60 hours; C3 requires 50 hours; C4 requires 38 hours.

[Micah]

I usually drive with a C1 driver's license, which allows me to operate various small vehicles including manual and automatic transmission cars or SUVs; the C2 license only permits driving automatic transmission small cars, which is quicker to learn but has greater limitations; C3 is for low-speed trucks, like agricultural vehicles, which aren't fast; C4 is specifically for three-wheeled motor vehicles. The difference lies in the applicable vehicle types—C1 is flexible, versatile, and widely applicable, C2 is simpler and more convenient but offers fewer options, while C3 and C4 are suitable for specific scenarios like freight transport or rural areas. I rely on my C1 manual transmission car for commuting in the city, enjoying both driving pleasure and fuel efficiency; my relatives in the countryside use C3 for hauling goods, which is practical but not fast. When getting a driver's license, choosing C1 is the best option to avoid future restrictions when changing cars. Road safety comes first—no matter which license you have, drive steadily and avoid sudden braking or overloading.

[McAllison]

As a fresh driver who just got my license, I chose C2 because it only allows driving automatic transmission cars which are easier to handle; but later I learned that C1 permits driving both manual and automatic transmission vehicles, offering more options; C3 license is for low-speed trucks limited to 70km/h, commonly seen in rural areas; C4 is for three-wheeled vehicles similar to auto rickshaws. The difference lies in daily practicality—C1 has broader applicability, while C2 is quicker to learn; C3 and C4 are work-specific. I plan to use my family's automatic transmission car for commuting; my driving instructor reminded me that manual transmission is more complex but C1 is better for long-term prospects, so I might upgrade later. C3 and C4 licenses are rarely seen in cities unless you're in transportation; it's best to research thoroughly before getting a license to avoid spending money on unnecessary training. With more cars on the road causing congestion, obeying traffic rules for safety is more important than anything else.

[WyattDella]

With years of driving experience, I always emphasize that a C1 license allows driving all small vehicles, both manual and automatic; a C2 license is restricted to automatic transmissions only; a C3 license is for low-speed trucks, such as those used for vegetable transport; and a C4 license is for three-wheeled vehicles like old-fashioned motorcycle trikes. The core difference lies in vehicle coverage: C1 is the most comprehensive and widely applicable, C2 is convenient but constrained, while C3 and C4 are specialized with narrow uses. I recommend directly obtaining a C1 license to avoid future hassles; in practice, manual transmission vehicles offer better control and advantages. Safe driving isn’t about license type—matching speed to road conditions is key.