What is the difference between C1 and C2 in the driving test?
3 Answers
C1 driver's license is one of the codes for motor vehicle driver's licenses; the permitted driving scope of a C1 license includes small and mini passenger vehicles, as well as light and mini cargo vehicles; light, small, and mini special operation vehicles; small passenger vehicles with a seating capacity of 9 or fewer people. C2 driver's license is for small automatic transmission vehicles. Compared to the C1 license, the C2 has the additional condition of being automatic, so a C2 license only permits driving small vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions (AT, CVT, DCT, AMT) and does not allow driving small vehicles with manual transmissions (MT). The difference between C1 and C2 lies in the type of vehicle used for training and testing. C1 is for small manual transmission vehicles, while C2 is for small automatic transmission vehicles. A C1 license allows driving both small manual and automatic transmission vehicles, whereas a C2 license only permits driving small automatic transmission vehicles.
Before getting my driver's license, I also researched the differences between C1 and C2. C1 is a manual transmission license, requiring operation of the clutch and gear shifting during the test, which is a more complicated process—like stalling easily on hill starts—so it requires more practice. C2 is for automatic transmission, where you don’t need to worry about the clutch; just press the accelerator and go, making the test much simpler. With a C1 license, you can drive all manual and automatic cars, making it more versatile and suitable for driving various vehicles in the future. C2 only allows driving automatic transmission cars, limiting the vehicle types. Personally, I think beginners may find C2 more hassle-free, easier to learn, and simpler to pass the test. But if you're considering driving trucks or manual cars, I’d recommend going straight for C1. Chat with friends more often to choose what suits you best.
From my years of driving experience, the core difference between C1 and C2 lies in operational complexity. The C1 test emphasizes hand-foot coordination—you must master clutch shifting and deal with stalling risks during hill starts and turns. It's more challenging but covers a wider range, allowing you to drive all types of small vehicles. The C2 test focuses on automatic transmissions, avoiding those difficulties—just control the speed, making it much easier. In terms of practicality, a C1 license lets you drive any car, while C2 is limited to automatics—convenient for daily small car use but restrictive for employment. My advice: choose based on needs—opt for C2 to save time and effort, or go for C1 for comprehensive coverage.
