What size truck can a B1 driver's license drive?
4 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.
I've been driving for almost 20 years and am most familiar with driving trucks using a B1 license. Simply put, it only allows you to drive small blue-plate trucks with a maximum weight of 4.5 tons and a length not exceeding 6 meters. For example, those small four-wheelers used for deliveries, perfect for moving furniture or groceries, but you'll need to upgrade to a B2 license for larger trucks. Some beginners think they can get away with trying, only to be caught midway and fined heavily, losing everything. From our experience, when choosing a vehicle, pay attention to the specifications—safe load capacity is the most important, don't just go for convenience. If you're serious about driving trucks, I recommend getting a C1 or B2 license for more flexibility.
From a safety perspective, driving a truck with a B1 license requires extra caution. It only permits light-duty blue-plate trucks with a total mass under 4500kg. Exceeding this limit, such as driving a 5-ton heavy truck, may cause brake system failure, posing extremely high accident risks. China's traffic regulations set this restriction specifically to protect drivers and pedestrians. A friend of mine once risked driving a slightly oversized truck and ended up rear-ending another vehicle—a reminder to everyone to strictly adhere to the rules. Even for daily light truck operations, always prioritize tire maintenance and load balance. Safety comes first.
