How to Get a Motorbike License in China

Take one look at the traffic jammed streets of China’s major cities and you’ll know that it’s a mad, mad world out there. So obviously you want to be a part of it, right? A lot of foreigners find that driving a car is simply too much of a hassle, what with all the public transportation available and many foreign companies providing their employees personal drivers. But a motorbike? Well, that’s a whole different story – they’re fast, convenient and (usually) don’t cost an arm and a leg. Here’s what you need to know to get yourself in the driver’s seat and join China’s growing throng of motorbike riders.

Who Needs a License for Motorbikes

In China, anyone driving a motorbike powered by diesel or gasoline requires a driver’s license. This includes motor scooters. If you’re driving an electric scooter or bike, however, you do not need a driver’s license.

Types of Motorbike Licenses

Depending on your preference and the type of motorbike you intend to ride, you can obtain:

  • D License: Allows you to drive any kind of motorbike, including those with sidecars.
  • E License: Permits you to drive any two-wheeled motorbike.
  • F License: Allows you to drive a two-wheeled motorbike under a certain engine power limit.

Process for Getting a Motorbike License

If You Don’t Have a Driver’s License at All:

  1. Written Test: Study for and pass a written test.
  2. Driving Lessons: Complete a minimum of 35 hours of driving lessons.
  3. Health Check: Undergo a health check, typically an eye exam.
  4. Driving Test: Take and pass a driving test.

    Yunnan Motorbike Tour
    Yunnan Motorbike Tour

If You Already Have a Driver’s License (Foreign or Chinese):

  1. Submit a health check (eye exam).
  2. Take the written test specific to motorbikes.

Steps to Register for the Test

  1. Prepare Documents:
    • Passport and copy of the picture page.
    • Copy of residence permit or visa valid for at least three months, along with registration form of temporary residence.
    • Copy of latest entry stamp in passport.
    • Copy of both sides of foreign driver’s license, legally translated by a certified translator.
    • Four passport-style photos with a white background.
    • Completed health check.
  2. Register at Local PSB Office: Find the office location and register for the test.

Test Procedure

  • The test procedure is similar to obtaining a car license.
  • All test questions are available online for study beforehand.
  • Visit your local PSB to register for and take the test.

Renewal and Inspections

  • License Validity: A motorbike license is valid for six years.
  • Vehicle Inspections: New motorbikes must undergo a roadworthiness inspection every two years for the first four years of ownership. Afterward, inspections may vary by city.

Legal Considerations

  • Residency Permit: You must have a residency permit (even temporary) to receive a motorbike license.
  • Consequences of Non-Compliance: According to Article 99 of the Safety Law, driving without a valid motorbike license can lead to severe penalties, including license revocation, vehicle confiscation, fines up to 2000 RMB, and imprisonment up to 15 days.

Registering for and actually taking the test are the exact same procedures as those for getting a car license. Your motorbike license will be valid for six years, after which you’ll have to go back to the testing office and get it renewed.

It’s required that you have a residency permit (even just a temporary one) in order to receive a motorbike license. Now, I know China allows laws to often be bent, and sometimes even broken, but this is one law you really don’t want to mess with – especially if you live in smaller towns (who are more likely to stop and check foreigners). According to Article 99 of the “Safety Law”, if you’re stopped by the police and don’t have a motorbike license, you’re subject to a) getting your license revoked, b) your motorbike confiscated, c) a possible fine of up to 2000 RMB, and/or d) up to 15 days imprisonment. So save yourself the hassle and get a valid motorbike license!

So you registered, took the test, and have your valid motorbike license – congratulations! There’s just one more thing to keep in mind. If you bought a new motorbike, you’re supposed to get it inspected for “road worthiness” every two years, for the first four years you own it. After four years, you’re expected to get it inspected once every year. The rules for how often you need to get it inspected after that vary from city to city, so make sure you check your specific requirements. The more you know of motorbike laws, the more you follow them, and save yourself possible headaches down the road.