What is the difference between Jing A and Jing B motorcycle licenses?
4 Answers
The differences between Jing A and Jing B motorcycle licenses are as follows: 1. Different driving areas: Motorcycles with Jing A licenses can normally ride in all areas of Beijing except Chang'an Avenue, and are only allowed on Chang'an Avenue after 8 PM. Motorcycles with Jing B licenses can only be used in suburban areas and are prohibited from entering the city at any time, restricted to riding outside the Fourth Ring Road. 2. Different application conditions: The requirements for obtaining a Jing A motorcycle license in Beijing are: For Beijing residents, provide an ID card; for non-Beijing residents, provide an ID card and a temporary residence permit. Purchase a motorcycle with a Jing A license and transfer it under your name. Purchase an imported vehicle registered with the Environmental Protection Bureau and fully taxed at customs to proceed with the application. As for Jing B, only individuals with household registration outside Beijing's four central districts or non-locals with a temporary residence permit can purchase it. Those within the four central districts can only register the vehicle under a company name or under someone else's name. 3. Different prices: Jing A is more expensive, while Jing B is relatively cheaper. 4. Different issuance statuses: After 1996, the issuance of Jing A motorcycle license plates was halted until 2018 when they were reintroduced in limited quantities, whereas Jing B plates have been continuously issued.
I've been riding motorcycles in Beijing for over a decade, so I know the difference between Jing A and Jing B plates inside out. Jing A plates are only eligible for old Beijingers, allowing you to ride freely within the city without restrictions. However, the price is ridiculously high—a single plate can cost hundreds of thousands, and transferring ownership is a huge hassle, often requiring connections to get it done. Jing B plates, on the other hand, are much easier to obtain, costing just a few hundred yuan, and anyone can apply for them. But they're banned within the Sixth Ring Road—if you ride inside, the police will catch you every time and fine you without hesitation. My friends with Jing B plates often get fined, so they're always on edge when riding. Additionally, Jing A plates hold their value well—you can even make some money when reselling. Jing B plates are purely practical, only suitable for suburban use. In my opinion, if you're a city dweller, Jing A plates offer peace of mind, but if you're looking to save money, Jing B is the more economical choice.
When buying a motorcycle, the brand is key—I've personally chosen many times. The Jing A license plate is extremely scarce, only available to Beijing residents, and transferring it is as difficult as climbing to the sky, with prices soaring to tens of thousands or even hundreds of thousands. Jing B plates are much cheaper, available to non-locals, and cost just a few hundred yuan, but come with restrictions—they can't enter central areas inside the Sixth Ring Road, or you'll face fines starting at over 100 yuan or even vehicle confiscation. In terms of transfer, Jing A plates are like treasures, appreciating in value, while Jing B plates sell quickly with no barriers. In the end, Jing A is hassle-free but expensive, while Jing B is budget-friendly but risky. I mostly buy Jing B—saving money is truly sweet.
When it comes to motorcycle license plate regulations, I've done thorough research. Jing A is specially approved for Beijing locals with no riding area restrictions, but the transfer process is extremely complicated. Jing B is designated as a suburban plate—riding into the city's core areas is illegal, with high fines and potential impacts on vehicle inspections. The price gap is huge too: Jing A can sell for sky-high prices, while Jing B costs just a few hundred yuan. During transfers, Jing A requires visits to multiple departments, whereas Jing B is hassle-free. My advice is to check the rules carefully before buying: Jing A suits city dwellers, while Jing B is a cost-saving option for beginners or suburban riders.
