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Can a Class C License Drive a 16-Seater Vehicle in Vietnam?

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09/02/2025

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Anh Tuan, a seasoned passenger van driver on the My Dinh – Xuan Mai route for nearly 10 years, resides in Hoai Duc district. Rumors about Class C licenses soon permitting the operation of 16-seater vehicles have ignited a spark of hope within him. He dreams of owning a new Ford Transit, providing airport transfer services to Noi Bai, and escaping the daily grind of navigating crowded roads, rain or shine. But can this dream become a reality? Let’s explore this with Xe Tai Ha Noi!

Class C License: Can It Be Used to Drive a 16-Seater Vehicle?

The answer is NO. According to current regulations outlined in Circular 12/2017/TT-BGTVT and Circular 01/2021/TT-BGTVT, a Class C license only permits the operation of the following vehicles:

Trucks, including specialized trucks with a design load capacity of 3,500 kg or more.
Tractors with a gross vehicle weight of 3,500 kg or more.
Vehicle types specified for Class B2 and B1 driver’s licenses.

A 16-seater vehicle is classified as a passenger vehicle with a capacity of 9 to 30 seats, falling under the purview of a Class D1 driver’s license. Therefore, to drive a 16-seater vehicle, you must obtain a D1 license.

D1 Driver’s License Fee Schedule in Hanoi

Driving School	Estimated Total Fee
College of Transportation	12,000,000 VND
Dong Do Driving Training Center	13,500,000 VND
Sao Viet Driving Training Center	12,800,000 VND

Note: Prices are for reference only and may vary depending on the time of registration.

Important Notes for Obtaining a D1 Driver’s License

Eligibility Requirements: Must be 21 years of age or older, possess good health, and have a clean criminal record.
Application Documents: ID card/Citizen ID, Health Certificate, passport photos, etc.
Training Duration: Approximately 3-4 months.
Examination Content: Theory, practical driving on roads and in a controlled environment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Driver’s Licenses and 16-Seater Vehicles

Can a Class C license drive a self-drive 16-seater vehicle?

As previously stated, a Class C license does not permit driving a 16-seater vehicle, even for self-drive rentals.

Is the D1 license exam difficult?

The D1 license exam requires thorough preparation in terms of knowledge, driving skills, and a stable mindset.

Which 16-seater vehicle is a good choice to buy?

Currently, there are many quality 16-seater vehicles on the market, such as the Ford Transit, Hyundai Solati, and Toyota Hiace. You can choose the model that best suits your needs and budget. You can refer to articles about these vehicle models on Xe Tai Ha Noi.

What about Feng Shui when choosing a 16-seater vehicle?

Vietnamese people often consider Feng Shui when purchasing a vehicle. Choosing a color that matches your destiny and an auspicious date and time for vehicle delivery is believed to bring fortune and luck.

Where to Buy Reputable Trucks in Hanoi?

Xe Tai Ha Noi is proud to be a leading provider of trucks, tipper trucks, and specialized vehicles in the Northern region. We are committed to providing customers with quality products, competitive prices, and excellent after-sales service.

Contact Xe Tai Ha Noi for consultation and the best quotes!