What is the difference between a C1 license and a C2 license?
3 Answers
C1 licenses allow drivers to operate both manual transmission and automatic transmission vehicles, while C2 licenses only permit driving automatic transmission vehicles and exclude manual transmission models. Many people consider the C1 license to be more cost-effective, which is why they opt for it. Generally, C2 automatic transmission driving classes are a few hundred yuan more expensive than C1 manual transmission classes. The price difference is mainly due to the limited availability of C2 automatic transmission training vehicles and their higher maintenance costs during use. C1 Driver's License: The C1 driver's license is one of the codes for motor vehicle driving licenses. The scope of the C1 license covers small and micro passenger vehicles, as well as light and micro cargo vehicles; light, small, and micro special-purpose vehicles; and small passenger vehicles with a seating capacity of 9 or fewer. C1 License Test: The test subjects include four items: traffic regulations and related knowledge, field driving, road driving, and safe and civilized driving common sense.
Last time I was really torn about getting my driver's license. I chose the C1 license, which requires learning manual transmission with clutch pedal and gear shifting. During practice, I often stalled the car which was quite frustrating. But after passing, it felt pretty cool being able to drive both automatic and manual cars. The C2 license is much simpler, only practicing with automatic transmission without worrying about the clutch - you can get the hang of it super fast, and it's cheaper too. However, driving manual cars later would be troublesome. My friend chose C2 and got licensed in just two months, while it took me three months. Nowadays most new cars in cities are automatic, so C2 is sufficient. But I'm afraid if I go back to my hometown and rent an old manual car, I wouldn't be able to drive it. So C1 is more comprehensive. My advice for beginners is to choose based on your lifestyle needs - if you're short on time, go for C2; if you want a challenge, choose C1 and don't regret it.
As a homemaker, I personally chose the C2 license for my two kids when they were learning to drive. Automatic transmission is easier to handle and safer, and the test doesn’t require learning complex gear-shifting operations, making it quicker and more hassle-free. The C1 license allows driving manual transmission, which sounds impressive, but all our family cars are automatic. With the widespread adoption of electric vehicles nowadays, there’s no need for manual control functions. Learning to use the clutch is just wasted effort and even increases the risk of accidents. Cost-wise, the C2 license saves a few hundred yuan in tuition fees and takes half the time, making it ideal for busy people like my husband. Unless you own an old truck or frequently drive manual equipment in rural areas, the C2 license is more suitable for ordinary families’ daily commutes—simple operation and safety come first.
