What Kind of License is a Motorcycle License?
3 Answers
Motorcycle license refers to a motorcycle driving license, which comes in three types: D license, E license, and F license. For a three-wheeled motorcycle, a D license is required; for a regular motorcycle, an E license is needed; and for a moped, an F license is necessary. A D license allows the holder to drive all three types of motorcycles mentioned above, while an E license permits driving regular motorcycles and mopeds. A D license authorizes the holder to operate three-wheeled motorcycles with an engine displacement exceeding 50ml or a maximum design speed over 50km/h, as well as two-wheeled motorcycles with an engine displacement greater than 50ml or a maximum design speed exceeding 50km/h, and motorcycles with an engine displacement of 50ml or less and a maximum design speed of 50km/h or below. An E license allows the holder to drive two-wheeled motorcycles with an engine displacement over 0.5L or a speed exceeding 50km/h, and it also permits driving vehicles covered by the F license. An F license is for operating light motorcycles with an engine displacement under 0.5L or a speed below 50km/h. The main difference among motorcycle licenses lies in the types of vehicles they permit the holder to drive. Therefore, when applying for a motorcycle license for the first time, it is crucial to pay close attention to the details. Based on practical experience, it is advisable to directly apply for a D license to avoid the hassle of upgrading later.
I used to commute by motorcycle, so I had to get a motorcycle license first. In Taiwan, we call it a 'motor vehicle driver's license,' but in mainland China, it's more commonly referred to as a 'motorcycle license.' It's mainly divided into light and heavy categories, with the heavy category allowing you to ride motorcycles over 50cc. The process is quite a hassle—you have to attend a training course for over ten hours, learning everything from balance training to road condition judgment. The written test covers traffic rules, and the road test is even harder, with obstacles like slalom and narrow bridges that really test your balance. After getting the license, you also need to pay attention to its validity period—it needs to be renewed every six years, much shorter than a car license. Last time I went to renew it, I was reminded to attend a safety lecture, since motorcycles are much more dangerous than cars.
When I was getting my motorcycle license, I noticed significant differences in regulations between Mainland China and Taiwan. For example, Taiwan has three license tiers, while we mainly categorize them into light motorcycles and regular motorcycles, primarily based on engine displacement and speed limits. The training content is quite similar though—you need to study traffic laws for the written test and practice cornering techniques. The most dreaded parts of the exam are the fixed-circle riding and straight-line acceleration tests, where many beginners fail. After obtaining the license, you can ride motorcycles below 125cc, but you'll need an additional endorsement for larger bikes. It's best to check the local DMV requirements in advance, as some places may require specific medical certificates. I recommend going to a proper driving school instead of using unlicensed agents, since this license directly relates to road safety.
