Do Electric Motorcycles Require a Driver's License in 2021?

[OCalvin]

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.

[EzraLynn]

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!

[SanMax]

In 2021, whether an electric motorcycle requires a driver's license depends on its speed. Simply put, the rule is: electric bicycles with a speed of 25km/h or below are treated as non-motor vehicles and do not require a license; electric motorcycles exceeding 25km/h are classified as motor vehicles, and you must hold a D, E, or F license to ride them on the road. This regulation is based on the national standard GB 17761, aiming to reduce traffic accidents. Riding a high-speed electric motorcycle without a license may result in a fine of 200-500 RMB and possible points deduction, with severe cases leading to vehicle impoundment. With more electric vehicles on the road now, it's best to check your vehicle's specifications in advance or consult the local traffic police department to ensure all necessary documents are ready for safer and worry-free riding.

[MacMariana]

This is a pretty common issue. Back in 2021, electric motorcycles were divided into two categories: those with a speed below 25km/h didn't require a driver's license, while those exceeding 25km/h needed one, such as a D-class license. If you're stopped by traffic police for a speed check on the road, they'll use a speed gun to verify. Exceeding the limit without a license can land you in trouble. My advice is to check the nameplate or manual when buying a bike—if it's marked as over 25km/h, get licensed promptly. The process isn't complicated: master the theory and pass the road test. Don't underestimate this—a friend of mine got fined several hundred for skipping the license out of laziness. For safety, always wear a helmet and carry your license when riding, cultivating good habits.

[LeMakayla]

I've been riding electric bikes since middle school. In 2021, whether an electric motorcycle requires a license depends on its speed. Those with a speed below 25km/h are classified as electric bicycles and can be ridden freely without a license; electric motorcycles exceeding this speed are treated as motor vehicles, requiring either a D or E license to ride legally. Nowadays, inspection equipment is advanced, and traffic police can easily determine the speed with a quick test. I remind beginners to pay attention: check the label when buying a bike. For those exceeding the speed limit, not only is a license required, but it's also advisable to have insurance for road use. Otherwise, there's a significant risk of fines if caught, and safety should always come first during regular rides.

[OSabrina]

Based on experience, whether an electric motorcycle required a driver's license in 2021 primarily depended on its specifications. National regulations classified those with a speed limit not exceeding 25km/h as non-motor vehicles, exempt from licensing. Those exceeding this speed were categorized as motor vehicles, requiring either a D or E license. When purchasing, check the voltage and power labels—if marked over 40 volts or exceeding the speed limit, a license was necessary. The test wasn't difficult, mainly consisting of theory and skill assessments. Don't take chances; being caught without a license could result in fines of several hundred yuan and vehicle impoundment. I recommend regular vehicle inspections to avoid potential hazards.