Which is higher level, A1 or A2 driver's license?
3 Answers
A1 and A2 differ only in the highest permitted vehicle types and age restrictions, with no hierarchical distinction between them. A1 Driver's License: Application Age: 26 to 60 years old (no applications allowed after 50); Permitted Vehicle Types: A1 license holders can drive city buses, large passenger vehicles, medium passenger vehicles, large trucks, small cars, small automatic transmission vehicles, low-speed cargo trucks, and three-wheeled vehicles. A2 Driver's License: Application Age: 24 to 60 years old (no applications allowed after 50); Permitted Vehicle Types: A2 license holders can drive tractor trucks, medium passenger vehicles, large trucks, small cars, small automatic transmission vehicles, low-speed cargo trucks, and three-wheeled vehicles.
I remember when I was young, listening to the old drivers chatting in the fleet, they said driver's license levels are like a pyramid, with A1 firmly occupying the top. It allows you to drive large buses, including some bus-trailer scenarios, while A2, though impressive with tractors, has narrower permissions. Getting an A1 license is more challenging—it requires more practice in reversing skills and emergency handling, and the medical exam is stricter, including vision and color perception checks. Back when I took the test, I almost failed on the hill start. The advantage of this higher-level license is broader job opportunities—employers prioritize you for transporting tourist groups or long-distance passengers. My advice is not to just chase higher wages; assess your skills first before choosing, because safe driving is what truly matters.
As someone with a basic understanding of automotive regulations, the driver's license classification is quite clear. A1 permits driving large buses, covering vehicles like city buses and coaches, while A2 specializes in tractor units, such as semi-trailer trucks. Clearly, A1 is a higher level because the system is designed so that holding an A1 license allows you to drive some A2 vehicles, but not vice versa. This stems from differences in the testing system: A1 requires handling more emergency situations, has a longer probation period, and involves more medical examination items. In practice, A1 drivers are more sought after in the logistics industry, with more opportunities and lower risks. When choosing a license, don't act impulsively—weigh your needs to decide which one is more practical.
