
C1 driver's license does not require any action after the probation period expires. You only need to renew it within 90 days before the six-year validity period ends. The driving scope of a C1 driver's license includes small and micro passenger vehicles, light and micro cargo vehicles; light, small, and micro special-purpose vehicles; and small passenger vehicles with a seating capacity of 9 or fewer people. C1 driver's license holders cannot drive: large buses, tractors, city buses, medium-sized buses, large trucks, ordinary three-wheeled motorcycles, ordinary two-wheeled motorcycles, light motorcycles, wheeled self-propelled machinery, trolleybuses, and trams. Additionally, C1 license holders cannot drive vehicles with more than 9 seats or trucks with a total length exceeding 6 meters. Age requirements: The minimum age limit for a C1 driver's license is 18 years old, and there is no upper age limit. However, applicants aged 70 or older must pass tests for memory, judgment, and reaction abilities.

I just passed my C1 probationary period and remembered to go to the DMV for some procedures. After one year of probation, if there are no major violations, such as not accumulating 12 penalty points, the license will automatically convert to the regular version. However, you still need to visit the DMV in person to check for any outstanding violations and pay fines before renewing the license. I went last month, spent half a day queuing and filling out forms, and after the staff confirmed everything was in order, they issued me a new license with a sticker on it. Afterward, don’t forget to maintain your license regularly, such as checking your points status annually, avoiding speeding or drunk driving, or else even the regular period can become problematic. I recommend handling this early to avoid expiration issues and enjoy driving with peace of mind. The longer you drive, the more you’ll realize safety comes first—the probationary period is just the beginning, and the real test lies ahead. Learn more defensive driving techniques.

From a practical perspective, there are several steps to take after the C1 probationary period ends. First, check if there are any traffic violation records during the probation period. If there are speeding or illegal parking violations, promptly pay the fines to clear them. Then, go directly to the local DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) to complete the procedures, bringing your ID card, old driver's license, and copies. If everything checks out, they will issue you a regular driver's license. I must remind you that the license exchange process is simple, but don't delay too long—exceeding 30 days might require retaking the test. Always drive cautiously, avoiding risky behaviors like reckless lane changes or driving fatigued on highways, as these can impact long-term safety. It's best to regularly check your vehicle's condition. Passing the probationary period means your skills are stable, but road conditions are unpredictable, so stay alert at all times. Develop a habit of checking your point balance monthly to make license management much easier.

When my probation period ended, I did the following: checked for traffic violations, went to the DMV to renew my license, and then started driving normally. To be specific, after completing the one-year probation period, first check for violation records on the official website or app to ensure there are no demerit point issues. If there are any fines, they must be paid first. Then, schedule an appointment at the DMV, bring the required documents, and directly apply for a new license—the whole process can be completed in as little as one hour. After transitioning to a full driver's license, pay extra attention to safety rules, such as not speeding on highways and staying calm in emergencies. It's advisable for new drivers not to rush into celebrations but to first familiarize themselves with vehicle maintenance, ensuring smoother driving experiences ahead.

When your C1 probation period ends, the top priority is ensuring a smooth transition of your driver's license. I recommend first addressing any traffic tickets to clear your record before visiting the DMV to exchange for a permanent license. Bring your identification documents, and it should take less than an hour. But don't forget this phase is about laying a safety foundation: post-probation driving requires extra caution—avoid nighttime risks or speeding, and double-check blind spots or lane-changing habits. Afterwards, regularly review your driving behavior to prevent accidents and maintain a valid license long-term. Managing a license is like maintaining a car—routine upkeep ensures reliability. Remember, driving isn't just technical skill; it's respect for life.


