Do Scooter Motorcycles Require a Driver's License?

[AxelLynn]

Scooter motorcycles, like other motorcycles, require a driver's license. For engines with a displacement of 50CC or above (including 50CC), an E or D license is mandatory. For engines with a displacement below 50CC (excluding 50CC, including so-called 48CC), an F license is required. Driver's License Application Locations: Applicants residing in their household registration area should apply there. Those residing temporarily can apply in their temporary residence area. Active military personnel (including armed police) should apply at their station. Foreign nationals should apply at their place of residence. For adding a permitted vehicle type, applications should be made at the issuing location of the current motor vehicle driver's license. Driving Age Requirements: Applicants for small cars, small automatic transmission cars, small automatic transmission passenger cars for the disabled, or light motorcycles must be between 18 and 70 years old. Applicants for low-speed trucks, three-wheeled cars, ordinary three-wheeled motorcycles, ordinary two-wheeled motorcycles, or wheeled self-propelled machinery must be between 18 and 60 years old.

[EverettMarie]

I find many people are confused about whether a scooter requires a driver's license. In fact, in China, all gasoline-powered scooters, whether small 50cc models or larger-displacement ones, are classified as motorcycles, so a motorcycle license is mandatory for legal operation. Riding without a license carries high risks—you could face fines of several hundred or even over a thousand yuan from traffic police, have your vehicle impounded, and it may affect your personal credit record. I've encountered many cases where riders assumed small-displacement scooters didn’t require documentation, only to be penalized on the spot. I recommend obtaining a Class D or E license at a local driving school—the process isn’t difficult. Just learn basic traffic rules and practical riding skills to ride safely. Remember, this isn’t just about complying with the law; it also enhances riding safety and reduces accident rates. Regular vehicle inspections can also prevent unnecessary trouble.

[Gael]

As someone who frequently commutes on a scooter, I must remind everyone that a driver's license is absolutely essential. Last year, I witnessed an accident where a novice rider without a license lost control and crashed into a guardrail. Fortunately, the rider was unharmed, but the scooter was totaled—all due to a lack of basic training. Whether you ride a light or heavy scooter, you need to obtain a motorcycle license, such as the common Class D license, which includes both theoretical and practical exams. Riding without a license is extremely dangerous, and traffic police frequently conduct checks—fines can make you regret it deeply. I recommend that beginners first purchase a compliant scooter and then enroll in a driving school. It usually takes just a few weeks to complete, costing only a few hundred yuan. Safety first is non-negotiable—don’t cut corners. Riding legally brings peace of mind and allows you to enjoy the convenience of urban commuting.

[DelJade]

Simply put, riding a scooter requires a driver's license. According to the law, all motorized scooters are classified as motorcycles and require proper licensing for road use. Getting caught riding without a license may result in fines or vehicle impoundment, which isn't worth the risk. I often advise friends to first check their scooter's classification at the DMV to confirm whether an E or D license is needed, then enroll in riding courses. Passing the test grants legal riding privileges. The whole process is quick and cost-effective while teaching valuable safety knowledge. Remember to maintain your vehicle regularly.