What are the types of driver's licenses?
2 Answers
There are many different types of driver's licenses. Based on the driving difficulty and safety requirements of different vehicle models, the Ministry of Public Security has effectively classified driver's licenses into three types of permitted driving models, namely Class A, Class B, and Class C licenses, to further strengthen targeted management. Class A License: Drivers permitted to operate large buses can apply for a large passenger vehicle license (A1) if they are 26 years or older; those 24 years or older can apply for a heavy or medium-duty full trailer or semi-trailer combination vehicle license (A2); and those 21 years or older can apply for a city bus license with a capacity of 10 or more passengers (A3). Class B License: Drivers permitted to operate large trucks can apply for a heavy or medium-duty full trailer or semi-trailer combination vehicle license (A2) if they are 24 years or older; those 21 years or older can apply for a medium passenger vehicle license (B1) or a heavy or medium-duty truck, large, heavy, or medium-duty special operation vehicle license (B2). Class C License: Drivers permitted to operate small cars can apply for a medium passenger vehicle license (B1) if they are 21 years or older. They can also apply for a small or mini passenger vehicle, light or mini truck, or light, small, or mini special operation vehicle license (C1); or apply for a small or mini automatic transmission passenger vehicle or light or mini automatic transmission truck license (C2).
I got my driver's license many years ago, initially choosing the C1 manual transmission car license, which allows driving both manual and automatic private cars. There are many types of driver's licenses, such as Category C, which is divided into C1 and C2. C2 is purely for automatic transmission, and the test is simpler, making it suitable for modern urban driving. Category B includes B1 for medium-sized buses and B2 for large and medium-sized trucks, commonly used for driving trucks to transport goods, and requires applicants to be at least 21 years old. Category A is more professional, with A1 for large buses carrying passengers and A2 for tractor-trailers, commonly seen in the trucking industry. There are also motorcycle categories, such as E for two-wheeled motorcycles and D for three-wheeled motorcycles. I recommend beginners start with C1 to learn basic operations safely. When obtaining a license, you need to undergo a medical examination, study theory, and practice driving. The age limit is 18 years or older for Category C, while higher categories require older ages. Remember not to drive beyond the permitted scope and always prioritize safety by following traffic rules.
