Do electric vehicles require a driver's license in 2021?
2 Answers
In 2021, riding an electric vehicle requires a driver's license. The new national standard "General Technical Conditions for Electric Motorcycles and Electric Light Motorcycles" stipulates: Electric bicycles weighing over 40 kilograms with a speed exceeding 20 kilometers per hour will be classified as light electric motorcycles or electric motorcycles, falling under the category of motor vehicles. This regulation will be implemented from January 1, 2010. This means that once this national standard is in effect, riding an electric vehicle will require going through a series of procedures such as obtaining a driver's license, registration, and purchasing insurance. Classification of electric vehicles: Electric vehicles are now divided into two types: electric bicycles, which are non-motorized vehicles, and electric light motorcycles and power motorcycles, which are motor vehicles. According to the "New National Standard Regulations for Electric Vehicles," electric bicycles do not require a driver's license, while electric light motorcycles and power motorcycles do. The rules and mandatory requirements for driver's license examinations, as well as the implementation time of the regulations, vary from place to place.
Back in 2021, I bought an electric vehicle for commuting. The salesperson emphasized checking the type: if it's an electric bicycle with a speed not exceeding 25 km/h and power under 400W, equipped with pedals for riding, then no driver's license is required—it's classified as a non-motor vehicle and can be ridden directly on the road. However, if it's slightly faster with power exceeding 400W, you'll need to get a driver's license, as those are categorized as electric motorcycles. Riding without an E or F license can easily lead to trouble. At that time, I personally witnessed traffic police stopping and checking riders. A friend of mine was fined for choosing a 30 km/h model without obtaining the required license. My advice is to verify the product specifications and labels before purchasing—don’t cut corners for cheapness or convenience only to break the law. Safety and peace of mind are what truly matter.
