What is the difference between C1 and C2 driving licenses?

[LeErin]

The differences between C1 and C2 driving licenses are as follows: From the perspective of vehicle types allowed to drive: C1 license allows driving: small cars and C2, C3, C4 (passenger vehicles with fewer than 9 seats such as sedans are considered small cars). C2 license allows driving: small automatic transmission cars. From the perspective of exam difficulty: C1 driving learning is relatively more difficult and prone to mistakes. C2 automatic transmission cars are easier to learn and drive, and during exams, fewer actions under nervousness lead to fewer mistakes, resulting in a higher overall pass rate. From the perspective of learning costs: The registration fee for C1 is lower than that for C2. Age requirements: The minimum age limit for C1 and C2 licenses is 18 years old, with no upper age limit. However, applicants over 70 years old must pass tests on memory, judgment, and reaction abilities.

[DiJude]

When I was learning to drive, I specifically studied the difference between C1 and C2 licenses. Simply put, C1 is a manual transmission license that allows you to drive both manual and automatic cars, while C2 is an automatic transmission license restricted to automatic cars only. The C1 test includes an additional step of operating the clutch and shifting gears, making the exam more challenging. It requires better hand-foot coordination and is prone to stalling, which can lead to failing the test. Learning C2 is much simpler—just focus on the accelerator and brake, allowing for a quicker license acquisition with less time and stress. Now, I find driving an automatic car much easier, but I regret not getting a C1 license because manual transmission options are more common when renting cars for travel. For new learners, I recommend considering C2 for its faster learning curve and practicality. However, if you seek a challenge or need it for work, C1 is worth trying—it offers greater flexibility once mastered. In the long run, C1 provides a more solid foundation and better adaptability.

[WestonDella]

As an ordinary mom who drives, I think the key difference between C2 and C1 lies in the operation method. Learning to drive an automatic transmission (C2) is simpler—the car moves as soon as you start, and pressing the accelerator speeds it up, eliminating the need for clutch pedal actions, which is especially convenient in city traffic jams. The C2 license test has fewer subjects, making it quicker to obtain the license, saving both money and hassle. For the C1 manual transmission test, you need to coordinate gear-shifting actions, which can be stressful and error-prone for beginners, increasing the risk of failing. Driving a manual transmission car daily can be a bit more troublesome, but the advantage is that once you pass the C1 test, you have more vehicle options and won’t worry about not having a car available. My family mostly drives automatic transmission cars, so a C2 license is completely sufficient, and the learning process is much less stressful, making it suitable for those with limited time. The choice depends on your needs—if you want convenience, go for C2; if you want versatility, choose C1.

[VonLily]

Having worked as a driver for over a decade, let me share the differences. A C1 license covers both manual and automatic cars, while C2 is limited to automatic transmissions only. Obtaining a C1 requires more practice with clutch operation, involves gear-shifting tests, and is slightly more challenging, but it equips you to handle various vehicle types and offers more job opportunities. C2 eliminates one step, making the test easier to pass and quicker to master. As a seasoned driver, I recommend C1 because manual transmission skills lead to more stable driving, better vehicle condition awareness, and improved emergency handling. While C2 is practical in an era of widespread automatic transmissions, its limitations are significant—you can't drive manual vehicles, narrowing career prospects. Though C1 demands more time and effort during training, the long-term payoff is superior. In real-world driving, C1 skills help prevent vehicle malfunctions and enhance safety. Choose between C2 or C1 based on your goals, but professional advice prioritizes C1.