Anyone who has driven a quad knows how much fun these four-wheeled speedsters are. They offer unbelievably high driving dynamics. But when it comes to the right driver's license, many are unsure. When do you need a quad driver's license? What about the quad insurance? And is every quad street legal? Find out everything you need to know below.
Driving a quad: which driver's license do I need?
In traffic law, quads are referred to as “ four-wheeled light motor vehicles ”. You don't have to get a special quad driver's license if you want to drive it.
That means: If you already have a category AM driver's license or a category B driver's license, everything is fine. This allows you to sit on the handlebars both on the road and off-road.
Until 2013, the AM category driver's license was referred to as "S". If you still have such an old "rag", it is of course also valid as a quad driver's license.
However, there are a few exceptions if you are under 18 years old.
And something else that you mustn't forget: If you use your quad on the road, you need liability insurance. Comprehensive insurance , either as partially comprehensive motor vehicle insurance or as fully comprehensive motor vehicle insurance, may also make sense.
Under 18 years: You can drive these quads
Under the age of 18 you are restricted with driving license category AM. In this case, your quad must not drive faster than 45 kilometers per hour. And it must not have more than a maximum displacement of 50 cubic centimetres. At least if you want to enjoy the "freedom on four wheels" alone.
If you have a B17 driver's license, you can also drive a quad with more speed. But for this - similar to the car - a registered companion must sit with you on the quad. In this case, it may also be worthwhile for you to take out driver insurance.
- You can read how fast your quad can go and how much displacement it has in the registration.
- Good to know: The performance of the engine is irrelevant for the quad driver's license.
Driving a quad without a license: what is allowed?
Have you ever seen an offer where even children can take part in a quad tour, for example while on holiday?
Actually, that shouldn't be possible at all. After all, you can only drive a quad if you are at least 15 years old. And then only if you already have your “scooter license” in your pocket. This includes the quad driver's license. Of course only if the quad is suitable for this driving license class.
However, you can also saddle up without a driver's license and without having reached the minimum age. And that is when the quad is only moved on private property. However, this must not be connected to public roads. And that the permission of the property owner must be present is logical.
But what about insurance coverage in this case ? Depending on where you drive and the circumstances, driver protection insurance can be useful. If you are traveling in another country, foreign damage protection can also protect you from unpleasant consequences.
Quad driver's license - this applies to passengers
A quad has a lot of advantages - but unfortunately also a few disadvantages. On the one hand you enjoy the freedom. Because quads offer high driving dynamics and are therefore particularly fun to drive. On the other hand, quad biking in the rain is anything but pleasant.
By far the biggest disadvantage, however, is that quads do not offer a crumple zone around them. This means that you are at the mercy of all dangers in the event of an accident. This is exactly why helmets are compulsory on the quad – for both the driver and the passenger.
The person sitting in the back does not need a quad driver's license or any other driver's license. However, the vehicle must also be approved for two people. Caution is advised here. Because some quads may only be "occupied" by one person. If you still take a passenger on the back, you are liable to prosecution.
Driving license costs
Now you already know that there is no extra quad driver's license. An AM driving license (scooter driving licence) costs approximately between 150 and 250 euros. However, the prices for the theory lessons differ within the federal states. And of course they also differ from driving school to driving school. According to the ADAC, as a learner driver you often have to reckon with costs of 500 to 1,200 euros.
- The amount consists of the basic fee for the driving school and the costs for the theory and practical lessons.
- In addition, there are the required teaching materials, the costs of registering for the theory and practical exam, an eye test and an immediate first aid course.
A category B car driver's license, on the other hand, is usually much more expensive in comparison. Again, it depends on the individual prices of the driving school and the number of driving lessons required. Also due to the general increase in prices, you can quickly face costs of 2,500 to 3,000 euros.
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