Can Four-Wheeled Motorcycles Be Driven on the Road?
3 Answers
To drive on the road, a motorcycle must have a license plate, a driver's license, and a vehicle registration certificate. Motorcycles must be registered: According to Article 8 of the "Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China": "The state implements a registration system for motor vehicles. Motor vehicles can only be driven on the road after being registered with the traffic management department of the public security organ. Motor vehicles that have not yet been registered and need to be driven on the road temporarily must obtain a temporary pass." Previously, all motorcycles were required to be registered. Materials required for motorcycle registration: Proof of identity of the motor vehicle owner, proof of origin of the motor vehicle such as the purchase invoice, the motor vehicle's factory qualification certificate or import certificate for imported motor vehicles, proof of payment of vehicle purchase tax or tax exemption certificate, compulsory third-party liability insurance certificate for the motor vehicle, and other proofs or certificates required by laws and administrative regulations to be submitted during motor vehicle registration.
I recently looked into this out of curiosity, and the issue of four-wheeled motorcycles being allowed on the road is quite complex. It mainly depends on the type and local regulations. For example, ATVs are typically used off-road and are not permitted on public roads, while some legally registered small four-wheeled vehicles can be driven as long as they are licensed and the driver has a valid license. I recommend first consulting the traffic authority about licensing requirements—the vehicle must meet safety standards such as having proper lighting and braking systems. Improper modifications can be dangerous. Always wear a helmet and carry the necessary documents when riding, or you risk getting fined. Some areas, like rural roads, may allow them, but highways usually do not. There’s significant risk involved, as poor speed control can easily lead to rollovers. Before riding, it’s best to check local laws to ensure compliance and safety.
I believe whether a vehicle can be driven on the road depends on three major factors: whether the vehicle is certified, whether the driver's qualifications are valid, and whether the road type is suitable. In most places, standard four-wheel motorcycles may be banned if they haven't passed the MIIT (Ministry of Industry and Information Technology) tests, but small cars purchased through official channels can be driven if they are registered and insured. I often see people ignoring regulations and driving directly on the road, only to be fined. To handle such matters, it's necessary to check the vehicle's brakes and tire conditions in advance to avoid potential hazards. It's best to go through the official DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) process to obtain a license plate and driver's license to reduce trouble and ensure driving safety, especially during rainy or snowy weather.
