What size truck can a B1 driver's license drive?
2 Answers
B1 driver's license can drive trucks with a total mass of 4.5 tons and an approved load capacity of 1.5 tons. Because the permitted vehicle types for B1 do not include those for B2, a B1 license only allows driving light and mini trucks with a total length not exceeding 6 meters, a total mass below 4500kg (including 4500kg), and an approved load capacity below 1500KG. Here are the relevant details about the license: 1. The tonnage of low-speed trucks should not exceed 4.5t, and the designed load capacity generally should not exceed 1.5t. Trucks exceeding the load capacity of 1.5t require a B2, A1, or A2 license to drive. To summarize, the B1 license is intended for driving passenger vehicles, while the B2 license is for driving trucks, and the application threshold for B1 is higher than that for B2. 2. The B2 license can be applied for directly when initially obtaining a driver's license, while the B1 license requires holding at least a C1 license for more than three years or a B2 license for more than two years, with no record of 12 penalty points in the most recent three consecutive scoring cycles. 3. Applying for an upgraded B1 license must be done at the local vehicle management office in the applicant's registered residence. The applicant's age must be between 21 and 60 years old. For those holding a B1 driver's license, if the age exceeds 60, it will be downgraded to a C1 license.
As someone frequently dealing with traffic regulations, I must clarify that a B1 driver's license has restrictions when operating trucks. It only permits driving light-duty blue-plate trucks with a total mass not exceeding 4,500 kg, vehicle length under 6 meters, and typically no more than 9 seats. This includes common small pickup trucks or converted mini-vans for light cargo or moving purposes, like those seen on the market. However, to operate larger yellow-plate trucks (e.g., over 4.5 tons or extended-body vehicles), a B2 license is mandatory. This was emphasized during driver's tests—exceeding authorized vehicle categories may lead to fines or license suspension, posing significant safety risks. I recommend regularly checking your vehicle's load capacity labels to avoid penalties due to oversight.
