Do I Need a License to Buy a Scooter?
2 Answers
Scooter motorcycles are classified as motor vehicles and require a driver's license to operate on the road. Below is relevant information: 1. Relevant Regulations: The "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China" stipulate the following: Article 13 states that motor vehicle license plates must be displayed in designated positions at the front and rear of the vehicle, ensuring clarity and completeness. Heavy and medium-duty trucks, their trailers, tractors, and their trailers must have enlarged license plate numbers painted on the rear of the body or compartment, with the characters being upright and clearly visible. 2. Key Considerations: It is essential to determine whether the scooter meets motor vehicle standards. If it qualifies as a motor vehicle, a driver's license and vehicle registration certificate are required (if the engine displacement is 50CC or below, a driver's license is still necessary). For motorcycles with an engine displacement of 50ml or less and a maximum design speed of 50km/h or below, an F-class license is required.
A couple of days ago, I went to a dealership with a friend to look at scooters, planning to buy one for commuting, while also thinking about the license issue. The seller said that purchasing a scooter itself doesn't require showing a license—you can pay and take the scooter right away, much like buying a bicycle. However, it's a different story once you hit the road. If you're caught riding without a license, the police may impose a fine at the least, or confiscate the vehicle at worst. It depends on the engine displacement: scooters under 50cc in many places require a special moped license or a Category C license, which is relatively simple to obtain, involving just a theory test and a practical exam. For scooters over 50cc, you'll need a full motorcycle license (Category E). I later went ahead and got a moped license—the process was quick, just a few days of study, and now I can ride with peace of mind. I recommend checking local regulations before buying; don't overlook safety for convenience, as regrets come too late once an accident happens.
