What kind of driver's license is required for a three-wheeled motorcycle?
2 Answers
A three-wheeled motorcycle requires a Class D driver's license. The Class D license allows driving three-wheeled motorcycles with an engine displacement greater than 50ml or a maximum design speed exceeding 50km/h. Other permitted vehicle types under this license include Class E and F. Examination subjects for the Class D license: Motorcycle license tests consist of Subject 1, Subject 2, and Subject 3 (road driving skills test and safe civilized driving knowledge test). All types of driver's licenses require completion of the probationary period before additional licenses can be added. Other permitted vehicle types under Class D license: Motorcycle licenses are divided into three categories: D, E, and F. Among them, Class D is the highest level of motorcycle license, which also permits driving vehicle types covered by Class E and F licenses. Class E is for ordinary two-wheeled motorcycles with an engine displacement greater than 50ml or a maximum design speed exceeding 50km/h. Class F is for motorcycles with an engine displacement of 50ml or less or a maximum design speed of 50km/h or less.
When I first got my three-wheeled motorcycle license, I specifically looked into this. Riding a standard three-wheeler or a reverse trike requires a Class D license, the regular Class E license for two-wheeled motorcycles isn't enough. To get a Class D license, you must be at least 18 years old, first undergo a physical exam at the driving school, then take the traffic rules test for Subject 1, and practice practical skills like slalom and hill starts for Subject 2. The test isn't actually difficult, but you need to pay attention to the different handling characteristics of three-wheelers compared to two-wheelers, as they're more prone to tipping. I also added a two-wheeled motorcycle endorsement, so now I can ride both types. Riding without a license and getting caught by traffic police will at least result in your vehicle being impounded and a fine, or even detention in serious cases—definitely not worth it.
