What License is Required to Ride a Large-Displacement Motorcycle?
2 Answers
Large-displacement motorcycles require either an E-class or D-class license. In China, there are three types of motorcycle licenses: F, E, and D. The F-class license only permits riding lightweight motorcycles with engine displacements below 50CC. The E-class license allows riding any two-wheeled motorcycle, regardless of displacement. The D-class license permits riding all two-wheeled and three-wheeled motorcycles. Therefore, with an E-class license, you can ride any two-wheeled motorcycle. Important Notes for Motorcycle License Tests: Before taking the test, the right index finger's fingerprint is recorded to prevent proxy test-taking. After completing the legal training, the test can be taken, with two attempts allowed. If the first attempt fails, a retest can be taken immediately. If both attempts fail, a retest fee (including two test opportunities) must be paid, and the candidate must wait for the driving school to schedule the next test. The test items for ordinary three-wheeled motorcycles, ordinary two-wheeled motorcycles, and lightweight motorcycles typically include pole tests, slope parking and starting, and single-plank bridge crossing, supervised by police and examiners. Training and testing for Subject 3 are completed together with Subject 2, without separate training or testing.
I just bought a big-displacement motorcycle, close to 400cc, and I'm super excited, but I need to get a license before riding. I got an E license myself, specifically for two-wheeled motorcycles. The process was quite a hassle: first, attending driving school training, memorizing a bunch of traffic rules for the theory test, like speeding penalties and traffic light requirements; during the road test, I had to demonstrate turns, parking, and emergency braking in the training area. I practiced for several days, afraid of making mistakes. Riding a high-displacement bike has strong power, and without a license, unstable handling can easily lead to accidents. Traffic police checks are strict, and you might face fines or even have your bike impounded. Now I can ride safely and often go to the suburbs on weekends to relax. Actually, getting an E license isn’t just about riding legally—it also taught me a lot about safety, like anti-skid techniques in the rain. I really recommend new riders get licensed early and not just focus on the thrill while ignoring the risks.
