According to the new Road Traffic Safety Law effective from January 1, 2025, holders of a B1 driving license will no longer be permitted to drive cars. Instead, they will only be allowed to drive three-wheeled motorcycles and other vehicles specified under an A1 driving license. This new regulation is outlined in Article 57 of the Law.
Current Regulations for B1 Driving Licenses
Currently, a B1 driving license allows its holder to drive the following types of vehicles:
- Automatic transmission passenger cars with up to 9 seats (including the driver’s seat).
- Automatic transmission trucks and specialized trucks with a maximum load capacity of under 3,500 kg.
However, as of January 1, 2025, a B1 driving license will no longer be valid for driving cars. Individuals who wish to drive cars will need to take an exam to obtain a B or higher class driving license.
Illustration of a B1 driving license
New Regulations for B Driving Licenses from 2025
A B driving license will be issued to individuals who can drive the following types of vehicles:
- Passenger cars with up to 8 seats (excluding the driver’s seat).
- Trucks and specialized vehicles with a design load capacity of under 3,500 kg.
- Cars towing trailers with a total designed weight of up to 750 kg.
For automatic transmission B1 licenses, starting January 1, 2025, holders may exchange their license for a B license, allowing them to drive automatic transmission cars. B1 and B2 licenses can also be exchanged or renewed for a B or C1 license, along with a certificate for driving specialized motorcycles for those operating tractors with a load capacity of up to 3,500 kg.
Changes to Other Driving License Categories
The Road Traffic Safety Law also introduces changes to other driving license categories:
Category A License: Only two types remain—A and A1.
- A1: Issued to individuals driving motorcycles with engine displacement up to 125 cm³ or electric motor power up to 11 kW.
- A: Issued to individuals driving motorcycles with engine displacement over 125 cm³ or electric motor power over 11 kW, along with the types of vehicles specified for an A1 license.
Category C1 License: Issued to individuals driving trucks and specialized vehicles with a design load capacity between 3,500 kg and 7,500 kg, as well as B-class vehicles towing trailers with a design load capacity of up to 750 kg.
Category C License: Issued to individuals driving trucks and specialized vehicles with a design load capacity over 7,500 kg, as well as B and C1-class vehicles towing trailers with a design load capacity of up to 750 kg.
Categories D1, D2, and D Licenses: Issued to individuals driving passenger buses with between 16 and over 29 seats and corresponding trailer vehicles.
Driving licenses such as BE, C1E, CE, D1E, D2E, and DE will be clearly classified to meet the requirements for driving larger trailers.
Conclusion
The changes in the Road Traffic Safety Law effective from 2025 will directly impact holders of B1 driving licenses and other categories. Citizens need to familiarize themselves with the new regulations to prepare adequately for licensing exams and renewals that align with their driving needs.
