Can a motorcycle over twenty years old still be licensed?

[JaceRose]

Whether it can be licensed depends on whether the following conditions are met. Here is the relevant information: Conditions: Old motorcycles can be licensed, but the prerequisite is that the procedures are complete and the vehicle's factory qualification certificate is within the validity period. Required Materials: Original identity proof of the motor vehicle owner. For mainland residents residing temporarily, the identity proof is the "Resident Identity Card" or "Temporary Resident Identity Card"; original proof of the motor vehicle's origin; original factory qualification certificate for domestically produced motor vehicles; original "Goods Import Certificate" for imported motor vehicles; original "Notification of Entry (Exit) License (Cancellation) for Motor Vehicles under Customs Supervision of the People's Republic of China" for customs-supervised motor vehicles; original proof of vehicle purchase tax payment or tax exemption certificate; original motor vehicle traffic accident liability compulsory insurance certificate; if the original is lost, submit a copy of any other page stamped with the insurance company's seal; original proof of vehicle and vessel tax payment or tax exemption certificate; for ambulances, fire trucks, and engineering rescue vehicles, an original proof of vehicle use nature issued by the competent authority must also be provided; for small automatic transmission passenger cars equipped with auxiliary devices for physically disabled persons, an original and copy of the auxiliary device installation qualification certificate must also be provided; ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, for motor vehicles not imported through customs and motor vehicles exempted from safety technical inspection as stipulated by the State Council's motor vehicle product authority, an original motor vehicle safety technical inspection qualification certificate must also be provided.

[StKatherine]

I have some knowledge about traffic policies: whether a motorcycle over 20 years old can be registered depends largely on local environmental and regulatory standards. The national emission requirements, such as China I or China II levels, often make older models fail to meet current standards. Vehicles over 10 or 15 years old may be subject to mandatory scrapping restrictions, especially in major cities like Beijing and Shanghai, where they can hardly pass the annual motor vehicle inspection. However, if the motorcycle is well-maintained and passes exhaust emission tests and safety inspections after a thorough overhaul, some smaller localities might still allow registration. It's advisable to first consult the local vehicle management office for specific policies and bring all necessary vehicle documents for a preliminary assessment to avoid wasted effort. Even if an old motorcycle can be repaired and registered, it requires frequent maintenance for road use, offering high collectible value but limited practical utility. With increasingly stringent environmental trends, encouraging owners to upgrade is a positive development.

[LeDaniel]

I've been riding motorcycles for over 20 years and currently own an old bike from my generation. Last year, I went through the arduous process of trying to get it licensed. First, I spent a considerable amount on a complete overhaul to ensure the engine ran smoothly and the brakes were responsive. The inspection focused mainly on emissions and the lighting system, and only after passing was I able to proceed with registration. The process was time-consuming and costly, but the emotional attachment to the bike made it feel worthwhile. Nowadays, many cities have tightened their policies, making it easier for older motorcycles to be rejected due to their age, though remote areas might be more lenient. If you're truly committed, I recommend consulting a professional technician to assess feasibility and avoid wasting your investment. Even after restoration, old bikes can still be taken out for occasional rides, but be mindful of the increased risks due to more frequent inspections. Ultimately, it's about balancing nostalgia with practicality.

[VonAlex]

As a maintenance technician, I emphasize that passing the inspection is crucial for licensing: old motorcycles must meet standards for exhaust emissions, brake functionality, and complete lighting and horn systems. Aging wiring harnesses are common, so replacing parts in advance ensures safety. It's advisable to visit a professional station for a pre-inspection to identify defects before deciding on repairs. Emission requirements are strict, and old engines often struggle to comply. If the inspection fails, all efforts are in vain. If the cost isn't high, it might be worth a try, but most old bikes have already reached their scrapping point. Regular maintenance can extend their lifespan, but the success rate for licensing remains low.