What Kind of Driver's License is Required for Trucks?
4 Answers
Light and mini automatic transmission trucks require a C1 driver's license, heavy and medium trucks require a B2 driver's license, and heavy and medium full trailers and semi-trailer combinations require an A2 driver's license. An A2 license allows driving vehicles permitted under B1, B2, C1, C2, C3, C4, and M licenses. Types of driver's licenses and permitted vehicles: 1. A1: Permitted vehicles: Large passenger vehicles. 2. A2: Permitted vehicles: Heavy and medium full trailers and semi-trailer combinations. 3. A3: Permitted vehicles: City buses with a capacity of 10 or more passengers. 4. B1: Permitted vehicles: Medium passenger vehicles (including city buses with a capacity of 10 to 19 passengers). 5. B2: Permitted vehicles: Heavy and medium trucks; heavy and medium special purpose vehicles.
I've been a truck driver for over 20 years. I remember when I first started, getting the right driver's license type was crucial. For small trucks, a C1 license is sufficient, like those light blue-plate vehicles. But for medium-sized trucks carrying heavier loads, you need a B2 license. For large trucks or trailers, an A2 license is mandatory. This is quite common - when I was young, I didn't pay attention and almost got into an accident while driving. Later, I studied the theory myself and took the driving test several times. To get a B2 license, you must be at least 20 years old and pass the physical exam, with no severe myopia. Regular vehicle maintenance is also important. If you get the wrong license, not only will you face fines if caught by the police, but you could also endanger others. So, new drivers should first understand the vehicle size before applying - safety comes first! Ask experienced drivers or read traffic rule books, don't just figure it out blindly like I did.
I've worked in a fleet for many years, responsible for dispatching trucks and dealing with this daily. Driving a small truck generally requires a C1 driver's license, while medium and large trucks require a B2 or A2 license. The company has strict hiring regulations: a B2 license allows operation of vehicles over five tons, while an A2 is suitable for tractor units, with an age limit of over twenty years. During training, we emphasize practical tests, including reverse parking and mountain road driving, to ensure driver quality. In fact, this isn't just a legal issue—it also affects insurance costs and accident rates. I've encountered new employees using the wrong license to drive large trucks, resulting in rollovers, and the company had to compensate. I recommend gaining more internship experience before entering the industry, learning by riding along for a few months, and choosing comprehensive test sites when obtaining a driver's license to avoid regrets.
I recently got my driver's license, choosing the C1 category. I initially thought it would allow me to drive all types of vehicles, but I later discovered that trucks have special requirements. A C1 license permits driving smaller light trucks, but for slightly larger ones, an upgrade to a B2 license is necessary. After researching the rules, I found that to obtain a B2 license, you must be at least 20 years old and pass both written and road tests, making the learning process quite challenging. I’ve been watching driving school videos online and taking multiple mock tests to avoid wasting effort. The key point is that the driver's license classification system is designed to prevent overloading and speeding, so beginners shouldn’t cut corners. I plan to try driving a small truck next year, taking it step by step.
