Can a C License Drive a Motorcycle?
2 Answers
C license does not permit driving motorcycles. The vehicle types covered by a C driver's license do not include motorcycles. For regular three-wheeled motorcycles, a D license is required; for regular two-wheeled motorcycles, an E license is needed; and for light motorcycles, an F license is necessary. If you already have a C driver's license and frequently ride motorcycles, you can obtain an additional license for the corresponding motorcycle type and then merge the licenses. However, it's important to note that a C driver's license does not cover motorcycles. Here are some related details: Detail One: The difference between two-wheeled motorcycles and light motorcycles lies in the age requirements for license application: for two-wheeled motorcycles, the age range is 18 to 60 years, the engine displacement must exceed 50ml, and the maximum speed must be over 50km/h. Driving a two-wheeled motorcycle requires an E or D license. For light motorcycles, the age range is 18 to 70 years, the engine displacement must be 50ml or less, and the maximum speed must not exceed 50km/h. Driving a light motorcycle requires a D, E, or F license. Therefore, when purchasing a motorcycle, you should choose the displacement based on the level of your current license. Detail Two: For individuals who hold both a C license and a motorcycle license, the licenses can be merged. Similarly, if you hold one license and are preparing to add another, the licenses will be merged once the new license is obtained. After merging, you can use a single license to drive both the vehicle types covered by the C license and those covered by the motorcycle license. However, the drawback is that the total points remain at 12 and do not increase to 24. The merged license will be classified as C1D, C1E, C1F, etc., depending on the levels of the C and motorcycle licenses.
I remember when I first got my Class C license years ago, I foolishly thought I could ride a motorcycle for a spin. But after just a few blocks, I was stopped by traffic police patrolling the roadside. At the time, I tried to explain, but they directly issued me a ticket, saying that a Class C license only permits driving four-wheeled vehicles, while motorcycles are classified as special vehicles requiring a Class D or E license. Not only was I fined 200 yuan, but I also got points deducted, nearly losing my license altogether. Afterward, I looked up the traffic regulations and learned that different licenses correspond to different vehicle types. For example, motorcycle tests require practicing balance and emergency stops, which are completely different from driving a car. Since then, I’ve never dared to mess around again—I dutifully went back to driving school and passed the Class E license exam. Looking back now, I’m just glad nothing worse happened, as riding unlicensed in heavy traffic is extremely dangerous, especially in rainy weather where a motorcycle skid could have dire consequences. That lesson taught me to always check the permitted vehicle types before driving, and I suggest you pay extra attention too—don’t make the same mistake.