What Type of Driver's License is Required for Vehicles with More Than 9 Seats?
2 Answers
Vehicles with 9 seats are classified as small passenger cars or sedans, and the driver must possess a C1 driver's license or a higher-level license. Below are the relevant details: 1. C1 License: The permitted vehicle types include small vehicles with 9 seats or fewer and a body length not exceeding 6 meters. The simplest and most effective way to determine eligibility is to compare the vehicle type listed on the driver's license with the type specified on the vehicle's registration certificate. 2. Permitted Vehicle Types: Other vehicle types permitted under a C1 license include C2 (small automatic transmission vehicles), C3 (low-speed trucks), and C4 (three-wheeled vehicles). A C2 license allows driving automatic transmission vehicles with fewer than 9 seats and a length not exceeding 6 meters.
When I first drove a vehicle with more than nine seats, I was quite startled—it requires a Class B driver's license, whereas a regular car only needs a Class C license for up to nine seats. The reason is that such vehicles are larger in size, have stronger inertia, longer braking distances, and are more prone to accidents, especially when carrying more passengers, which doubles the risk. Having driven vans and commercial vehicles for over a decade, I always had to be extra cautious when reversing or turning due to the large blind spots in the rearview mirrors, relying on accumulated experience. Safety is the top priority, and these regulations are designed to protect both drivers and passengers. I recommend that beginners not rush into driving large vehicles; instead, they should practice with smaller cars for at least a year. Upgrading to a higher-class license requires formal driving school exams, which cover large vehicle handling and emergency procedures. In actual driving, checking for overloading is also crucial. Vehicles with more than nine seats are commonly used for corporate purposes or family trips, so it's important to balance convenience and safety when choosing one.
