Why can't a C1 license drive a 7-seater car?
2 Answers
Why can't a C1 license drive a 7-seater car? The vehicles that a C1 license can drive must have a mass not exceeding 4,500 kilograms, accommodate no more than 9 people, and have a total length of less than 6 meters. Therefore, a C1 license holder is permitted to drive vehicles with fewer than 9 seats. Below is relevant information: 1. A C1 license allows driving C2 vehicles, but a C2 license does not permit driving C1 vehicles. Without a D or E license, one cannot drive a motorcycle. Driving in violation of traffic regulations constitutes unlicensed driving. 2. A C1 license also permits driving vehicles under the C2, C3, and C4 categories. 3. C2 refers to "small automatic transmission vehicles," commonly known as automatic transmission cars. 4. C3 refers to "low-speed cargo vehicles," typically agricultural vehicles. 5. C4 refers to "three-wheeled vehicles," common three-wheeled cars. Note that dual tires mounted together count as one wheel.
Back when I was getting my driver's license, I also wondered why a C1 license couldn't cover 7-seaters. Actually, that's a misunderstanding! A C1 license allows you to drive passenger vehicles with up to 9 seats, including 7-seat SUVs or MPVs, as long as the total weight doesn't exceed 4.5 tons. Many people think it's not allowed, probably because they've heard 7-seaters are bigger and harder to drive, or they've confused the requirements for commercial vehicles. For example, a colleague once mistakenly thought a 7-seater minivan couldn't be driven with a C1 license, but the standard family version is perfectly fine. The rules state that if the vehicle is a standard small car type, with seat count and dimensions within the specified range, a C1 license is sufficient. Of course, if a 7-seater has been modified beyond the standard parameters or converted for passenger transport use, a higher-grade license would be required. The key is to know your vehicle's specific specs—don't just guess, safety comes first. I think it's best to check the vehicle manual or consult a professional before driving, to avoid fines or accidents.
