What is the difference between C1 and C2?

[DiCali]

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.

[MaryMarie]

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.

[StRebecca]

As a young driver who just got my license, the difference between learning C1 and C2 is quite obvious in terms of exam difficulty. C1 requires practicing manual gear shifting and hill starts, often stalling during the reverse parking in Subject 2, with the coach constantly teaching clutch coordination—it's slow and tiring to learn. C2 is much simpler, with automatic gear shifting in D mode throughout, requiring several months less practice and boasting a higher pass rate. My friend chose C2 and got the license in just one month. After learning C1, you can drive any car, including manual transmissions; C2 only allows driving automatic transmission cars. With automatic transmissions becoming more common in new cars, learning C2 is more cost-effective. If you want to get on the road quickly, go for C2; if you want more vehicle options in the future, choose C1—it's all about saving time and effort.

[DeGriffin]

From the perspective of family car ownership costs, manual transmission C1 models are usually cheaper than C2 models, and they're easier to find in the used car market. In terms of fuel consumption, C1 models are more economical, especially noticeable on highways. C2 automatic transmission models offer more comfortable driving but come with slightly higher fuel costs, and expenses like insurance and maintenance (such as transmission repairs) are also more costly. Over the years of driving a C2 in the city, I've spent an extra hundred or so on fuel each month, but the convenience of not having to shift gears makes it worth it. In the long run, if you're on a tight budget, choosing a C1 is more economical; if you prioritize convenience, a C2 is a good choice. The gap in fuel consumption between new models has narrowed, but the higher maintenance costs of C2 models are still something to consider. When choosing a car, it's important to consider your budget and how frequently you'll be using it.