What are the differences between driver's license types C1, C2, and C3?
3 Answers
C1, C2, and C3 driver's licenses mainly differ in the types of vehicles they permit to drive. A C1 license allows driving manual or automatic transmission vehicles with fewer than 9 seats; a C2 license permits driving only automatic transmission passenger cars, light and micro automatic transmission cargo vehicles; a C3 license allows driving low-speed cargo vehicles and three-wheeled vehicles; a C4 license permits driving only three-wheeled vehicles. A C1 driver's license is for small cars, defined as vehicles with a total mass less than 4,500 kg, seating no more than 9 people, and a vehicle length under 6 meters. In addition to small cars, a C1 license holder can also drive vehicles permitted under C2, C3, and C4 licenses. A C2 driver's license is for small automatic transmission vehicles. Compared to the C1 license, the C2 has the additional condition of being automatic transmission only. Therefore, a C2 license holder can only drive small vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions (AT, CVT, DCT, AMT, etc.) and cannot drive small vehicles with manual transmissions (MT). A C3 driver's license is for low-speed cargo vehicles, which were referred to as four-wheel agricultural transport vehicles under old regulations. Additionally, a C3 license holder can drive vehicles permitted under a C4 license. Low-speed cargo vehicles must have a maximum speed not exceeding 70 km/h, a maximum total mass less than 4,500 kg, and a vehicle length under 6 meters.
I just got my driver's license recently, and I took the C2 type, which is specifically designed for automatic transmission cars—no need to press the clutch or shift gears, making the exam relatively easier. The C1 license is more versatile, allowing you to drive both manual and automatic cars, but it's trickier to learn since you have to control the clutch and gears, requiring more practice time. The C3 license is for low-speed trucks, like small trucks or tricycles, and doesn't permit driving regular cars; it's more suited for transport work. Nowadays, automatic transmission cars are so common in cities that a C2 license is sufficient. However, learning to drive a manual with a C1 license can be more fun, offering better control and even saving some fuel. When choosing a license type, consider your daily driving habits—don’t just go for the easier option and end up with the wrong type, affecting your future use. Anyway, make sure to research thoroughly before deciding which test to take.
Having driven for decades, I have a deep understanding of the differences between driver's licenses. The C1 license has the widest application range, allowing you to drive both manual and automatic transmission cars, such as private passenger vehicles. The C2 license only permits driving automatic transmission cars, which are simpler to operate but unsuitable for manual transmission vehicles—encountering an old company car could be a headache. The C3 license is designed for low-speed cargo vehicles, like small trucks or tricycles, mainly used in urban-rural areas or for small-scale deliveries. Each license test varies: the C1 exam emphasizes coordination, the C2 focuses on smooth driving, and the C3 also covers cargo loading regulations. I recommend young people opt for the C1 license—it's more flexible and hassle-free, avoiding future regrets and the trouble of upgrading. Safety comes first when driving, and choosing the right license type to match the vehicle is crucial.
