What is the age limit for driving?
4 Answers
There is no strict upper age limit for driving in China, but individuals over 70 years old cannot obtain a driver's license. For drivers who have reached the age of 70, it is mandatory to have their driver's license reviewed annually. They must also submit a "Driver's Physical Condition Certificate" and undergo a physical examination. The specific details are as follows: 1. Upon reaching 60 years of age: Drivers holding licenses for large passenger vehicles, tractors, city buses, medium-sized passenger vehicles, or large trucks must exchange their licenses for those permitting only small cars or small automatic vehicles at the vehicle management office where the original license was issued. 2. Upon reaching 70 years of age: Drivers holding licenses for ordinary three-wheeled motorcycles or ordinary two-wheeled motorcycles must exchange their licenses for those permitting only light motorcycles at the vehicle management office where the original license was issued.
I was thrilled to learn that I could get my driver's license right after turning 18. That summer, I immediately signed up for a C1 manual transmission course. I remember the instructor mentioning that applying for a large truck license requires being at least 22 years old, and it's even stricter for buses—you must be at least 23. However, getting a motorcycle license is more lenient; you can take the test for an ordinary two-wheeler at 18. It's especially important to note that seniors aged 70 and above must submit an annual medical report to continue driving. Just the other day, Uncle Wang in our neighborhood had his license temporarily suspended for half a month because he forgot to submit his annual medical check-up. Young drivers should be careful—my cousin lost his license right after getting it because he was caught speeding 50% over the limit on the highway.
Our driving school instructors find two types of students most challenging: impulsive 18-year-olds and elderly drivers over 70. Novices often mistake the accelerator for the brake – last week, a girl even knocked over traffic cones at the training ground. Regarding age limits, as long as they pass the physical exam, even 80-year-olds can drive. Nowadays, many grandparents use new energy vehicles to pick up their grandchildren, which is much safer than riding tricycles. However, elderly drivers should be cautious with challenging conditions like night driving and severe weather, and know their limits. One of my students, a 72-year-old lady, specifically chose to learn with an automatic transmission, saying it's easier for her slower reflexes.
The age requirement for obtaining a driver's license varies by situation. For driving a passenger car, you can apply at 18 years old—my son got his C2 license right after the college entrance exam. If you want to drive a logistics vehicle, you must be at least 22 years old; my friend who works in cold chain transportation obtained a B2 license. The most unique rules apply to electric vehicles: you can ride an electric bicycle at 16, but an electric motorcycle requires you to be 18. Earlier this year, a high school student borrowed his father’s motorcycle and was caught by traffic police, resulting in the vehicle being impounded and a fine of 2,000 yuan. Parents are advised to check the age restrictions for specific vehicle types before buying one for their children.
