Can a Motorcycle Be Licensed Before Obtaining a Driving License?

[SanKennedy]

Motorcycles cannot be licensed before obtaining a driving license. Here are the details: Registration: Register at a driving school, traffic police station, or vehicle management office. Bring your ID card, 6 photos (some may require taking photos at the driving school or vehicle management office), and temporary residence permit. Then pay the fee and fill out the form. Exam Content: Theory Test (Subject 1): Attend classes with a card swipe, take a 50-question test, and pass with a score of 90 or above. Practical Test (Subject 2): Navigate an S-shaped course around three poles and back without placing your feet on the ground, stalling the engine, or crossing the yellow line. Road Test (Subject 3): Complete the route as instructed by the examiner. Advanced Theory Test (Subject 4): Recognize various road signs, traffic police hand signals, and learn how to handle different situations while riding a motorcycle.

[OAxel]

In my decades of motorcycle riding experience, this question is often asked by beginners, but the answer is simple: you generally cannot register the motorcycle (commonly known as getting a license plate) before obtaining a license. According to traffic regulations, registering a motorcycle requires providing a valid driver's license as a prerequisite, which serves as proof of your eligibility to ride. Without a license, the vehicle management office simply won’t process the registration. I remember making a similar mistake years ago—I bought a bike and tried to register it directly, only to be told to come back after obtaining my license. Nowadays, the policy is even stricter: you must first attend a motorcycle training course (for a C1 or C-class license), pass the test, and then bring your ID and purchase invoice to the vehicle management office for registration. The time saved can be used for vehicle maintenance preparations, such as checking the brakes and tires, just in case issues arise on the road. Though the process is tedious, it ensures safety first—otherwise, you risk fines or having your bike impounded if caught.

[LaKira]

As someone who frequently assists customers with vehicle paperwork, I must say it's impossible to register a motorcycle before obtaining a license. Motorcycle registration requires submitting a copy of your driver's license, and the registration system will directly verify the information. If you attempt to register without a license, the DMV system will outright reject it. I advise beginners not to look for shortcuts—spend two weeks getting licensed while familiarizing yourself with the bike's performance. If you've already purchased a motorcycle, store it in the garage temporarily until you get your license, or have a licensed friend test it for you. Never ride without a license—accidents could lead to not only financial losses but also personal injury. Learning basic maintenance skills like changing bulbs or checking the chain is also very useful.

[VanGianna]

When I first bought my motorcycle, I also wondered if I could get the license plate first and then the license. Turns out, it's not possible. The law is very clear: you must have a motorcycle driver's license to apply for a plate. A friend of mine tried once and got rejected outright, so he had to go and learn properly. My advice is to sign up for the test immediately—usually, it only takes a few days to complete, and then getting the plate is a breeze. While waiting, you can decorate your bike, maybe add a wrap or a storage box, and also pick up some basic safety knowledge, like choosing a certified helmet—don't cut corners on safety. The whole process is quick, so there's no need to rush.