Do Electric Motorcycles Require a Driver's License in 2021?
2 Answers
In 2021, electric motorcycles require a driver's license, but not all of them need to be tested. After the new national standard for electric vehicles was announced and implemented, electric vehicles were divided into three types: electric bicycles, electric light motorcycles, and electric general two-wheeled motorcycles. The difference between electric motorcycles and electric light motorcycles: Electric motorcycles and electric light motorcycles are classified as motor vehicles, and the new national standard for electric motorcycles has been implemented since April 1, 2019. The "New National Standard for Electric Motorcycles" stipulates that electric motorcycles must be licensed to be on the road, and drivers must hold a driver's license, vehicle license, and purchase commercial insurance. They are also required to drive in the motor vehicle lane. Violators may face criminal charges. For electric bicycles with a speed below 25km/h and a body weight below 55kg, no driver's license is required to be on the road. Electric motorcycles also need to be licensed: Electric vehicles classified under motor vehicle management not only require a driver's license but also need to be licensed and purchase relevant vehicle insurance before they can legally operate on the road. Of course, electric bicycles manufactured and sold according to the new national standard, with all equipment and performance meeting national standard requirements, fall under the new national standard for electric bicycles.
I bought an electric motorcycle last year and initially wasn’t sure if a driver’s license was required. Later, I consulted the vehicle management office and learned about the 2021 regulations. There’s a national standard based on speed: electric bicycles with a maximum speed not exceeding 25 km/h don’t require a license, but if it exceeds 25 km/h, it’s classified as an electric motorcycle, and you must hold a license such as a D or E license to ride. My bike’s label showed a top speed of 35 km/h, so I promptly enrolled in a driving school to get licensed. The test includes a theoretical part on traffic rules and a practical road test. After passing, I registered my bike and started riding. Police often check speeds on the road, and riding without a license for over-speed vehicles can result in fines or even confiscation. I recommend checking the manual or consulting a professional before buying to avoid risks. Safety first!