New Regulations for Electric Vehicles: Mandatory Licensing and Documentation Starting June 1, 2025

Starting June 1, electric vehicles (EVs) must comply with the “2 plates and 3 certificates” requirement to operate legally on the road. Failure to meet this standard could result in fines of up to 2000 yuan.

To drive an electric vehicle, it is essential to have the “2 plates.” The vehicle license is fundamental, serving as a connection between the owner and the electric vehicle. It links the vehicle’s frame number to the owner’s ID, making the license a necessary document for road use.

There are mainly two categories of electric vehicles: compliant models and non-standard models. Compliant models must display a formal license plate, while non-standard models must show a temporary license plate to be allowed on the road.

To obtain a formal license plate, the following documents are required: the vehicle’s compliance certificate, purchase invoice, and vehicle consistency certificate. If the vehicle is a motor vehicle, proof of mandatory insurance purchase is also needed. For non-standard electric vehicles, acquiring a license plate is simpler; it requires just the owner’s ID and the compliance certificate. If the compliance certificate is lost, a legal source commitment letter can be signed to obtain the license plate for free.

In addition to the plates, it is mandatory for electric vehicles to carry the “3 certificates” while on the road. Missing any of these certificates could also lead to fines of up to 2000 yuan.

Driving License: Since the implementation of classified management for electric vehicles, many models are categorized as motor vehicles, which require a driving license to operate legally. The new regulations specify that, apart from electric bicycles, all other motor vehicles must have the appropriate driving license. Electric lightweight motorcycles require at least an F license, while electric motorcycles need at least an E license. For electric tricycles, a D license is necessary, but users can directly obtain a D license, which covers E and F license categories as well.

Driving without a license is prohibited. If caught driving illegally, the vehicle may be impounded, and a fine of up to 2000 yuan may be imposed. Additionally, driving a vehicle without the correct license type will result in a deduction of 9 points from the driving license and a fine of 200 yuan.

Vehicle Registration Certificate: All electric vehicles displaying a formal license plate must also carry a vehicle registration certificate. This certificate provides information about the vehicle’s specifications and the owner’s details, confirming whether the vehicle has undergone any modifications. Currently, both the vehicle registration and driving licenses can be applied for in electronic versions, allowing owners to present them via their mobile phones without needing to carry paper copies, thus enhancing convenience.

3C Certification: Furthermore, electric vehicles must meet national standards before production and sale, which necessitates passing the mandatory national certification known as 3C certification. Certified electric vehicles will have a 3C certification label affixed prominently on the frame, along with a 3C certification document indicating the standards met and the certification’s validity period. Electric vehicles lacking 3C certification cannot be registered, and selling such vehicles may incur hefty fines.

Conclusion: By June 2025, the standards for electric vehicles on the road will become increasingly clear. They must adhere to the “2 plates and 3 certificates” requirement, displaying either formal or temporary license plates, while also carrying a driving license, vehicle registration certificate, and 3C certification. Each of these five documents is essential; failure to comply may result in fines of up to 2000 yuan. What are your thoughts on the electric vehicle management regulations set to take effect on June 1, 2025? Feel free to leave your comments.