Can a C License Drive a Motorcycle?

[Devin]

C license cannot drive a motorcycle. C1 is for small cars, while DEF are for three-wheeled and two-wheeled motorcycles. Holding a C1 license only allows you to drive four-wheeled vehicles. If you want to ride a motorcycle, you need to apply for an additional license (DEF) at the vehicle management office. Below is relevant information: Penalty: Using a C1 license to drive a motorcycle is considered unlicensed driving. The C1 license will be deducted 12 points and fined. C1 License Permitted Vehicle Types: Vehicles with blue license plates. Generally, small vehicles with blue license plates can be driven with a C1 license. All small automatic or manual transmission cars can be driven with a C1 license, which are the basic permitted vehicles for a C1 license. Light, small, and micro special-purpose vehicles can also be driven with a C1 license.

[DePatrick]

When I first got my C1 license, I thought I could also ride a motorcycle for fun, since I could already drive a car. But once, when I wanted to try my friend’s motorcycle, my driving school instructor sternly warned me: A C license only allows you to drive small cars. To ride a motorcycle, you must obtain a D, E, or F license—otherwise, it’s considered unlicensed driving. I checked the regulations, and sure enough, it was clearly written: if caught, you could be fined between 200 to 2000 yuan, have your vehicle impounded, or even face detention. A friend of mine didn’t believe it and rode out with just his C license—he was stopped by traffic police, fined 500 yuan, and lost his bike. That lesson made me quickly sign up for an E license training, where I learned balance and emergency braking skills. Now, I ride much more steadily. Don’t cut corners—safety first. I recommend everyone get the proper license before hitting the road to avoid trouble. Motorcycles are fun, but the rules must be followed strictly.

[LaGenevieve]

Having driven for over a decade, I can confidently say a Category C license has nothing to do with motorcycles. It only covers small passenger vehicles—riding motorcycles requires specialized credentials like Class D, E, or F licenses. I’ve seen too many beginners itching to ride after getting their C license, only to face fines of at least ¥1,000 or worse, accidents. A neighbor once crashed an unlicensed bike and spent tens of thousands on a broken leg. The law isn’t lenient: getting caught without a proper license means fines starting at hundreds of yuan and vehicle impoundment. My advice? Get an E license at a driving school—it’s straightforward, with theory and practical tests wrapped up in days, plus you’ll learn safety skills like stable cornering. Now, with my family licensed, we ride worry-free. Motorcycles offer thrilling speed, but rules are non-negotiable—staying compliant ensures peace of mind.

[ZoeRose]

As an ordinary mom, I'm most afraid of any safety mishaps happening to my family. I've heard some people think a Category C license allows them to ride motorcycles—that's extremely dangerous thinking. The C license is specifically designed for passenger cars; motorcycles require a D, E, or F license. If you don't comply, the risks of unlicensed riding are high: not only could you face fines of several hundred yuan, but accidents become even more troublesome. My neighbor's kid got hurt riding without a license, needed stitches, and the medical bills ran into thousands. So I always remind my husband and kids—if they want to ride, they need to get licensed first. Applying at the traffic department isn't hard; just pass the theory and road tests. Safety is no small matter—wearing a helmet and having the proper license is what really matters. The C license has its limits; don't fantasize about it being universal. Following the rules brings peace of mind.