What is the difference between C1 and C2?
2 Answers
C1 and C2 mainly differ in that a C1 driver's license allows driving both manual and automatic transmission vehicles, while a C2 driver's license only permits driving automatic transmission vehicles. Here are the relevant details: Regarding C1 and C2: A C1 driver's license refers to a manual transmission license, and a C2 driver's license refers to an automatic transmission license. In terms of the types of vehicles permitted, a C1 license allows driving small and micro passenger vehicles, as well as light, micro, and small special operation vehicles, while a C2 license permits driving small and micro automatic transmission passenger vehicles and light and micro automatic transmission cargo vehicles. Regarding the difference in annual medical examinations, C1 license holders aged 70 and above must undergo an annual medical examination, while C2 license holders aged 60 and above must do the same. In terms of cost, generally, the training fee for a C2 license is slightly higher than that for a C1 license.
As a veteran driver with over 20 years of experience, I believe the core difference between C1 and C2 driver's licenses lies in the driving experience. C1 is for manual transmission vehicles, requiring you to press the clutch and shift gears manually. It can be tiring to frequently switch between first and second gears in traffic jams, but it offers better control and is more fuel-efficient on highways, making it suitable for those who enjoy driving dynamics. C2 is for automatic transmission, where you only need to press the accelerator and brake, making it stress-free, especially for beginners who may feel nervous. It's particularly effortless in congested urban areas. Nowadays, automatic transmission cars dominate the market, offering easier maintenance and smart features like assisted shifting. Learning C1 allows you to drive both manual and automatic vehicles, providing greater adaptability, while C2 is limited to automatic models only. My advice is to choose based on your personal habits—if you prefer convenience, go for C2; if you're a driving enthusiast, opt for C1.
