What is the difference between C license and C1?

[SanKira]

Driver's license C and C1 are of the same category. The C license is the old version, while the new version divides the C license as follows: C1 refers to small cars and includes C2 and C3. C2 refers to small automatic transmission cars. C3 refers to low-speed trucks and includes C4. C4 refers to three-wheeled cars. The C1 driver's license is one of the codes for motor vehicle driving licenses. The permitted driving scope of a C1 license includes small and mini passenger cars, light and mini cargo trucks, as well as light, small, and mini special operation vehicles. Small passenger cars must have a seating capacity of 9 or fewer people. The minimum age limit for a C1 driver's license is 18 years old, with no upper age limit. However, applicants aged 70 and above must pass tests on memory, judgment, and reaction abilities.

[DelFelix]

Last time I took the driver's license test, I was particularly conflicted and looked into this matter. Simply put, the C license is a general category for small car driver's licenses, with C1 specifically referring to the certification for driving both manual and automatic transmission vehicles. Learning C1 prepares you for all kinds of small cars. If you directly take the C2 test, you can only drive automatic transmission cars, which is more convenient but comes with more restrictions. I remember practicing clutch coordination when learning C1 was quite challenging, but once mastered, you won't be afraid of driving any car. If you haven't decided before taking the driver's license test, I recommend directly applying for C1. Although it's more difficult, it's more practical—don't just go for the easier option. After all, manual cars are rare now, but what if you need one? Driving safety comes first, and more practice is always beneficial.

[McJoshua]

I've been driving for over a decade. People used to say a C license meant driving manual transmissions, but after system upgrades, it's now more detailed. C1 is a license for small vehicles that allows driving both manual and automatic transmissions. To obtain it, you need to pass a manual transmission operation test, which is quite challenging for balance. The plain C license doesn't specifically represent anything now and might be considered an old term. Nowadays, I mostly drive automatics, but occasionally when helping friends move manual cars, a C1 is still required. Young people learning to drive shouldn't just look at the surface—first assess whether you're comfortable with manuals. Manuals are tiring but more fun, while automatics are comfortable but come with vehicle restrictions. From a safety perspective, choosing C1 can improve adaptability and is more beneficial for beginners. Try test driving both before deciding.

[NolanRose]

I've been driving an automatic transmission car for daily commuting and have considered changing my driver's license type. The C license is actually a general classification, with C1 allowing driving both manual and automatic transmission vehicles, while C2 is limited to automatic only. The difference lies in the test content - C1 requires practicing gear shifting with clutch coordination, which is slightly more difficult, whereas C2 is simpler and more suitable for people like me who prioritize convenience. In real life, automatic transmission is sufficient for city driving, but occasionally when traveling to mountainous areas, manual transmission is more stable. It's recommended to choose based on your habits rather than trying to save time. Investing in learning to drive properly ensures long-term safe driving with less anxiety, and maintaining your car well is essential.