What is an A9 driver's license?
2 Answers
There is currently no A9 driver's license in China. Motor vehicle driver's licenses are divided into 15 levels: A1, A2, A3, B1, B2, C1, C2, C3, C4, D, E, F, M, N, and P. Introduction to A2 driver's license: The permitted vehicle type is a tractor, which can tow heavy and medium-sized full trailers/semi-trailers. An A2 license allows driving vehicle types permitted by B and C class licenses, but note that A2 cannot drive vehicle types permitted by A3. Introduction to A3 driver's license: The vehicle type is urban buses, and other permitted vehicle types are those allowed by C class licenses, excluding B class license types.
I've been driving for over 20 years and have encountered many questions about license classifications. The term A9 driver's license sounds unfamiliar because there is no A9 code in China's authorized vehicle types. The standard classification is that Class A represents large vehicles, such as A1 for large buses (authorized for vehicles with 19 or more seats), A2 for heavy tractor units, and A3 for city buses. A9 might be a confusion with other types, such as C1 for small car licenses. You can see the authorized driving letter codes on the second line of your driver's license. Driving the wrong type of vehicle carries significant risks, ranging from fines and penalty points to accidents without insurance coverage. I recommend that new drivers shouldn't rush to drive immediately after getting their license. Instead, visit the vehicle management office or download the Traffic Management 12123 app to verify the authorized driving scope. After all, safety comes first—don't invite trouble just to save effort.
