Can a C1 driver's license not drive a motorcycle?
2 Answers
C1 driver's license cannot drive a motorcycle. According to the "Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driver's Licenses," motorcycle driver's licenses are divided into three types: D, E, and F. Holders of other driver's licenses must obtain an additional corresponding motorcycle driving category to drive a motorcycle. Driving a non-authorized vehicle type with a C1 license may result in a one-time deduction of 12 points and a fine. Authorized vehicle types for a C1 driver's license: small and micro passenger vehicles, light and micro cargo vehicles; light, small, and micro special-purpose vehicles; small passenger vehicles with a seating capacity of 9 or fewer. Vehicle types that a C1 driver's license cannot drive: large buses, tractors, city buses, medium-sized buses, large trucks, ordinary three-wheeled motorcycles, ordinary two-wheeled motorcycles, light motorcycles, wheeled self-propelled machinery, trolleybuses, and trams. Additionally, a C1 license cannot drive vehicles with more than 9 seats or trucks with a total length exceeding 6 meters.
Last time my neighbor was stopped by traffic police for riding a motorcycle with only a C1 license, got fined and had 12 points deducted. Actually, a C1 license only permits driving small vehicles like sedans and SUVs - motorcycles are completely outside its authorized scope. Traffic laws classify driving licenses very precisely, requiring specialized D, E or F licenses for motorcycles. Even if you're skilled at driving cars, motorcycle balance control and safety techniques are an entirely different system. Enforcement is getting stricter - I've checked the regulations, unlicensed motorcycle riding can result in fines up to 2000 RMB, and possibly even vehicle confiscation. So if you really want to ride, honestly go get the proper additional license instead of taking this risk.
