What kind of driver's license is required for a three-wheeled motorcycle?

[VonJasper]

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.

[DelCatherine]

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.

[EmeryLynn]

My elderly neighbor bought a farm tricycle for transportation two years ago and specifically obtained a D-class license. He said the tricycle has a unique structure and requires a special license to operate. When registering for the exam, you need to bring your ID card and a medical certificate. The test mainly consists of two parts: theory and field operations. The second subject includes tests like single-plank bridge crossing and slope parking, which demand good balance. After getting the license, you need to pay attention to annual reviews. Even those with a C1 car license must obtain an additional endorsement to drive a tricycle. I've seen cases where people were caught driving tricycles with just a C1 license—they got 12 points deducted and had to retake the test, so don't take chances.

[Ibarra]

As a motorcycle instructor, I often get asked about the license requirements for three-wheeled motorcycles. Indeed, a Class D driver's license is required, which covers all three-wheeled and two-wheeled motorcycles. Applicants must be between 18 and 70 years old, with vision being the most critical aspect of the medical examination. The entire examination process takes about three weeks, and tuition fees vary by location—around 1500 in our area. Students most frequently struggle with the slalom test; three-wheelers have a much larger turning radius, so I recommend practicing figure-eight circles before the test. After obtaining the license, note that three-wheelers require yellow license plates, and insurance must be purchased separately.

[DeBradley]

My experience of obtaining a D-class license at the driving school last year made me realize that riding a three-wheeled motorcycle is not as casual as riding an electric bike. A specialized three-wheeled motorcycle license is required because the vehicle's center of gravity and handling methods are completely different. The most challenging part of the test was the right-angle turn, as the wide body made it particularly easy to cross the line. After getting the license, I drove a three-wheeler to help deliver goods for my family's fruit shop, and everything went smoothly when the traffic police checked my documents. For those considering taking the test, I recommend directly opting for the D-class license—it saves time compared to first getting an E-class license and then upgrading, and the cost is similar. If an accident occurs while driving without a license, the insurance will definitely not cover it, and the risk is too great.