What is the difference between Beijing A and Beijing B motorcycle license plates?
3 Answers
The differences between Beijing A and Beijing B motorcycle license plates are as follows: Different driving restrictions: Motorcycles with Beijing A license plates can normally operate in urban areas of Beijing except for Chang'an Street, while motorcycles with Beijing B license plates can only be used in suburban areas and are not allowed to enter the urban area at any time. Different values: Beijing A license plates retain their value well, whereas Beijing B license plates are generally priced much lower. Different road access: Motorcycles with Beijing A license plates can access the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Ring Roads, while those with Beijing B license plates cannot. Additional information: In 1985, Beijing stopped issuing new Beijing A motorcycle license plates. At that time, approximately 25,000 Beijing A plates had been issued. Since then, citizens who wish to purchase a motorcycle must find a used or scrapped vehicle with a Beijing A plate and transfer it to their name to legally ride on the road.
I'm quite familiar with motorcycle license plates. Jing A and Jing B are the two types of license plates in Beijing, mainly differing in driving range and price. Jing A is the traditional urban plate, allowing riding throughout the city, including bustling areas inside the Second Ring Road. It had a large issuance volume in earlier years but was later discontinued. Now, it can only be purchased from others, often costing tens of thousands or even hundreds of thousands, making it extremely scarce. Jing B is a suburban plate, restricted to outer areas like suburban roads. Riding into the city center will result in fines and points deducted without hesitation. This policy aims to control traffic congestion and pollution in Beijing, with strict government regulations. For example, if you commute to work in Dongcheng or Xicheng, you must choose Jing A; otherwise, you'll face daily checks. Jing B suits those living in the suburbs—cheaper but less flexible. Additionally, Jing A plates hold strong value in the second-hand market, often seen as an investment. In short, your choice depends on your lifestyle and budget, but don't cross the red line.
A few days ago, I was chatting with friends about motorcycle license plates, so I thought I'd share some experience. Jing A plates can ride freely anywhere in Beijing city, while Jing B plates are restricted to the outer areas and can't enter the bustling districts—otherwise, you'll get fined by traffic police. I once tried entering the city with a Jing B bike and ended up with a ticket—totally not worth it. Why the difference? It's Beijing's way to limit vehicles in the city to reduce congestion. Jing A plates are rare old plates and insanely expensive, while Jing B plates are easier to get but still tough now, requiring you to meet suburban residency conditions. If you're a new rider living in places like Fengtai or Fangshan, a Jing B plate is sufficient and saves money, but watch out for policy changes. By the way, Jing A's advantage is obvious in summer traffic—saves time. In winter, when air quality is poor, enforcement is stricter. Choose based on your situation—don't go cheap and regret it later.
