What are the requirements for changing from C2 to C1?
2 Answers
The requirements for changing from C2 to C1 are: 1. Hold a C2 driver's license for at least 1 year; 2. The driver's license has not been deducted 12 points in the previous scoring cycle. The application process for changing from C2 to C1 is: 1. Bring your ID card to the vehicle management office to apply for an additional driving license; 2. Fill out the application form and pay the fees; 3. Bring your ID card, C2 driver's license, six one-inch white background color photos, and a medical examination form to a local regular driving school to complete the registration. A C2 driver's license only allows you to drive small and micro automatic passenger cars, as well as light and micro automatic trucks. A C1 driver's license allows you to drive small and micro passenger cars, light and micro trucks, light, small, and micro special operation vehicles, and other models.
I’ve always driven automatic transmission cars, but last year I upgraded to a C1 license, and the process was quite interesting. The requirements are straightforward: you need to hold a C2 license for at least one year—when I applied, they checked my records, and even being one day short wasn’t allowed. Then, I signed up for the exam, which included reviewing traffic regulations in theory and practicing manual transmission driving. The driving instructor emphasized practicing the clutch to avoid stalling at startup. On the exam day, the atmosphere was tense, but I passed on my first try, with costs around 2,000–3,000 RMB. After the upgrade, it’s indeed much more convenient—for example, driving a friend’s pickup truck for camping feels more engaging with manual transmission. I recommend applying early, preparing your medical check-up report, and practicing regularly with a manual car. Don’t rush; taking it slow is the most reliable way to avoid wasted effort.
