What License is Required to Drive a Motorcycle?

[Robin]

To operate a motorcycle, you need a Class D license. Motorcycle licenses are categorized as Class D or E, where Class E is for two-wheeled motorcycles, and Class D includes Class E and also permits driving three-wheeled motorcycles. If you already have a C1 license and wish to obtain a D or E license, this is considered an additional endorsement. You must have held the C1 license for at least one year before applying. A Class D driver's license is a type of motor vehicle driving license (driver's license). The permitted vehicle types include ordinary three-wheeled motorcycles and the vehicles allowed under Class E and F licenses. Among these, a Class F license allows you to operate a light motorcycle, which is defined as a motorcycle with an engine cylinder displacement not exceeding 50 milliliters, a maximum design speed not exceeding 50 kilometers per hour, and intended for single-person use only.

[StErin]

Riding a motorcycle requires a specialized license. In China, there are several types: A D license allows you to ride three-wheeled motorcycles, an E license is for regular two-wheeled motorcycles like those above 250CC, and an F license is for lightweight, small-displacement vehicles such as electric scooters under 50CC. To get a license, you must attend training at a driving school and pass both theoretical and practical exams, including skills like slalom and hill starts. Having ridden motorcycles for ten years, I believe getting licensed before hitting the road is the safest approach—it avoids fines or vehicle confiscation by traffic police. Unlicensed riding leads to frequent accidents, and insurance won’t cover them. Beginners should start with an F license to get familiar with handling before upgrading to E or D. Remember, a car license like C1 doesn’t permit motorcycle riding—you must take a separate test. Don’t cut corners and ignore the risks. When buying a bike, also check if the engine displacement matches your license to avoid legal troubles.

[Diego]

Want to ride a motorcycle? First, you need to get a license. In China, there are three types: D, E, and F. The E license is suitable for regular two-wheelers, while the F is for lightweight scooters. Which one to take depends on the engine displacement. I personally got an E license, and the process was quite fun—I trained at a driving school for two weeks, and the test included a written exam and obstacle course. With the license, you can ride legally and won’t worry about fines during random checks. Skipping the license leads to much higher accident rates, and hurting others would be your own misfortune. Beginners are recommended to find an instructor to learn basic controls—safety first. Also, rules vary slightly by city; some places require an E license for bikes over 50CC. It’s advisable to regularly check your license expiration date for a worry-free and liberating ride.

[Benjamin]

Riding a motorcycle requires holding the corresponding driver's license to be legally allowed on the road. In China, motorcycle licenses are categorized into Class D, E, and F, with Class E typically used for regular two-wheeled motorcycles. The licensing process is completed through driving schools, emphasizing both theoretical and practical training. Riding without a license carries high risks: increased likelihood of accidents, invalidation of insurance, and severe fines. From a safety perspective, licensed driving ensures qualified training, reducing harm to both the individual and others. It is recommended to start with a Class F license and upgrade after gaining sufficient experience.