Which Type of Motorcycle Does Not Require a Driver's License?
2 Answers
All motorcycles require a driver's license. For three-wheeled motorcycles, a Class D license is needed; for two-wheeled motorcycles, a Class E license is required; and for light motorcycles, a Class F license is necessary. The process for obtaining a motorcycle driver's license is as follows: First-time application for a motor vehicle driver's license: You can apply for vehicle types such as city buses, large trucks, as well as small cars, small automatic transmission cars, low-speed trucks, and three-wheeled cars. For those who already hold a motor vehicle driver's license: You can apply to add additional vehicle types, including large passenger vehicles, tractors, as well as medium-sized passenger vehicles, large trucks, small cars, small automatic transmission cars, low-speed trucks, three-wheeled cars, ordinary three-wheeled motorcycles, and ordinary two-wheeled motorcycles.
Under Chinese regulations, what is truly exempt from a driver's license is not traditional motorcycles but electric bicycles that comply with national standards. Specifically, if the speed does not exceed 25 km/h, the weight is within 55 kg, and it has pedal-assist functionality, these are classified as non-motor vehicles in traffic regulations and do not require a driver's license. I've seen many people mistakenly believe that electric motorcycles don't need a license, only to be fined by traffic police for buying models that exceed the speed limit. Therefore, when choosing a vehicle, it's essential to check the certification to confirm its speed and performance. Other vehicles, such as gasoline or electric motorcycles with an engine displacement exceeding 50cc or a speed over 50 km/h, are all classified as motor vehicles and require an E or D license to operate on the road. Safety first—don't cut corners and ignore legal requirements to avoid trouble and potential insurance claim issues.
