What License is Required to Operate a Loader?
3 Answers
Operating a loader requires a driver's license with vehicle type code M, which is processed at the vehicle management office. The vehicle management office, traffic management departments of municipal public security authorities, or traffic management departments of public security authorities at the same level are responsible for handling motor vehicle driver's license services within their administrative regions. Additional Information: Loader Operation Certificate: This refers to the employment certificate for loader operation, issued by the China Construction Machinery Education Association. There is a set of two loader operation certificates issued by the China Construction Association. These are typically required for superior inspections and safety checks, making them essential for loader operation. Application Materials: One copy of ID card, one copy of junior high school or higher education certificate, and four one-inch color photos.
I've been driving loaders for over ten years. At first, I thought an ordinary driver's license would suffice, just like driving a car, but I was fined and realized how wrong I was. Operating construction machinery like loaders requires a special operation certificate, such as the Construction Machinery Operation Certificate required in China, which might be classified as an M license. Regular car licenses like B2 are completely inadequate because operating construction machinery involves high risks, such as tipping over or causing injuries. To get certified, you need to attend a formal training school for one or two weeks of theoretical classes and hands-on training, covering topics like safe startup, steering, and emergency handling. When I took the test back then, I also learned basic maintenance knowledge, which was quite practical. Now, when I see newbies operating machinery, I always remind them not to risk working without a license—accidents often happen due to carelessness. Getting certified on time not only ensures compliance but also saves you from unnecessary trouble and expenses.
I got my loader operator license just over six months ago, and looking back now, I feel that experience was totally worth it. Back when I worked at construction sites, seeing others operate loaders looked really cool, so I wanted to give it a try. Later, I realized you can't do it without a license—you need a special equipment operation qualification certificate. Without it, you're not allowed to operate. Regular driver's licenses like C1 or B2 aren't applicable for these big machines. Signing up for training was straightforward—just find a local institution to learn operational skills, such as balance coordination and safety protocols, followed by written and practical exams. I spent around 1,500 yuan and trained for over two weeks, passing the test on my first try. In actual operation, you really can't afford to be careless—the license ensures you know how to control the loader arm to avoid injuring people. I’d advise anyone interested to plan early and not miss opportunities due to qualification issues.
