What Type of Driver's License is Required for a Medium-sized Passenger Vehicle?
2 Answers
Medium-sized ordinary passenger vehicles require a B1 or higher-level driver's license to operate. These vehicles are defined as medium-sized passenger vehicles with a length not exceeding 6 meters and a designated seating capacity of 10 (inclusive) to 19 (inclusive) passengers. According to the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China, driving a motor vehicle requires obtaining a motor vehicle driver's license in accordance with the law. To apply for a motor vehicle driver's license, one must meet the driving permit conditions stipulated by the public security department under the State Council. After passing the required examinations, the traffic management department of the public security authority will issue the corresponding category of motor vehicle driver's license. Individuals holding a foreign motor vehicle driver's license who meet the driving permit conditions stipulated by the public security department under the State Council and pass the assessment by the traffic management department of the public security authority may be issued a Chinese motor vehicle driver's license.
I've been driving for over 20 years, often using medium-sized passenger vehicles like 15-seat minivans or small buses for team transportation. Drivers must hold a B1 license, as the C1 license only applies to vehicles with 9 seats or fewer—anything beyond that requires an upgrade. I remember when I was studying for the B1 license; it involved multiple rounds of exams, including theoretical sections covering traffic regulations and practical tests like reverse parking and hill starts, which really tested my skills. Safety always comes first in daily driving, especially with medium-sized buses carrying more passengers and higher risks. Driving without the proper license can lead to penalties like point deductions, fines, or even vehicle impoundment if caught by traffic police—consequences are severe. I recommend checking with the local DMV or enrolling in a driving school course for systematic training to ensure your driving qualifications are legal and valid.
