E-Ride Pro SS in Germany: Which Driving License Do You Actually Need?
There is a lot of misinformation regarding the legal requirements for riding an E-Ride Pro SS on German roads. The answer depends entirely on the bike's homologation (vehicle class). Here is the definitive guide to staying legal.
1. Off-Road Version (No Straßenzulassung)
If your bike lacks mirrors, lights and a COC (Certificate of Conformity), it is strictly for private property.
- Where to ride: Private land or closed tracks only
- License: Not required
Warning: Riding this version on public roads or sidewalks is a criminal offense in Germany (driving without insurance and registration).
2. Street-Legal Version (L1e Class) – max 45 km/h
Most street-legal E-Ride Pro SS models sold in Germany are limited to 45 km/h and belong to the L1e (moped) category.
- Required license: Class AM (from age 15 or 16 depending on the state)
- Class B: Standard car license automatically includes AM
Verdict: If your bike is registered as L1e, your regular car license is sufficient. You do not need any special motorcycle extensions.
3. High-Speed Street-Legal Version (L3e Class) – over 45 km/h
If the bike is homologated as a light motorcycle (L3e) and exceeds 45 km/h:
- Required license: Class A1 (from age 16)
- B196 extension: For drivers aged 25+ with at least 5 years of Class B
Verdict: A plain Class B license is not sufficient. You must have A1 or B196.
Critical Facts for German Riders
- The B196 shortcut: Only needed for L3e. Most SS models are sold as L1e.
- The “unlock” risk: Removing the 45 km/h limiter voids insurance and is prosecuted as driving without a license.
License Plates
- L1e: Small annual insurance plate (Versicherungskennzeichen)
- L3e: Full registration plate from the Zulassungsstelle
The Technical Truth: L1e vs. L3e
It is important to understand that from a hardware perspective, the L1e and L3e versions of the E-Ride Pro SS are identical. They share the same motor, battery, controller, and frame.
The only differences are:
- Software: The L1e version has a factory-installed software "governor" that limits the top speed to 45 km/h.
- Documentation: The bikes come with different Paperwork (COC - Certificate of Conformity). One identifies the vehicle as a moped (L1e), the other as a light motorcycle (L3e).
