Previously, we’ve discussed how foreign nationals can buy a new or used car in Taiwan. This time around, we will talk about another mode of transportation that’s extremely popular all over the country: scooters.
In Taiwan, and other places in Southeast Asia, for that matter, most people like to use scooters. They’re easy to operate and maintain, help reduce traffic congestion, and able to reach narrow streets — where cars or bigger vehicles cannot go. As long as you have a driver’s license and other essential documents, buying a scooter in Taiwan is pretty much straightforward.
How to Buy as Scooter in Taiwan
Where can a foreign national buy scooters in Taiwan? What are the requirements and steps involved? In this guide, we’ll be sharing the answers to these questions.
Where to Buy Scooters in Taiwan
There are many places where you can buy scooters: official shops or dealerships, mechanics/repair shops, private sellers, and online marketplaces.
Official Shops or Dealerships
Brands such as Yamaha, Kymco, and SYM have official shops or dealerships for their products. Yamaha is a well-known Japanese brand, while Kymco (Kwang Yang Motor Co. Ltd) and SYM (Sanyang Motor Co. Ltd.) are Taiwanese motorcycle manufacturers based in Kaohsiung and Hukou, Hsinchu Country, respectively.
Notably, some manufacturers sell scooters through partner supermarkets (e.g. Carrefour), so you can actually buy a brand new scooter in these places, aside from your groceries!
Mechanics/Repair Shops
Ask your colleagues or friends to recommend a trusted mechanic or repair shop. These shops often sell used or secondhand scooters, which are less expensive than new ones. After buying a scooter, you could opt to have it maintained in the repair shop as well.
Private Sellers
If you know anyone who is selling their scooter, consider buying from them. Of course, be sure to ask how long they’ve had their vehicle, what repairs have been made, and other details. Moreover, don’t forget to test drive the scooter and check its performance!
Online Marketplaces
In the past, people advertised their used vehicles on newspapers and bulletin boards. These days, most of these activities are done online. A quick search on Facebook Marketplace could result in several options, and you could also join Facebook Groups when planning to buy a scooter. Just remember to be wise when dealing with sellers; do not hesitate to ask for the vehicle’s papers, and conduct a test drive before making a purchase!
Cost of Scooters in Taiwan
The cost of scooters depend on their brand and type. For instance, a brand new 100-150cc scooter may cost TWD 50,000 – 100,000, whereas a 250-500cc scooter is usually priced at TWD 100,000 – 250,000. For scooters or motorcycles 500cc and above, the price could range between TWD 250,000 – 600,000.
As for used or secondhand scooters, those 150cc and below typically cost TWD 10,000 – 40,000, depending on their condition.
Requirements
Similar to buying cars, purchasing a scooter in Taiwan requires an Alien Residence Certificate (ARC) and a local driver’s license.
If you don’t have a Taiwanese driver’s license yet, you’ll need to have your Philippine driver’s license verified at the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) first, before applying to get a new (or converted) driving license in Taiwan.
Procedure
If you have the required documents, and of course the money to buy a scooter, here are the next steps that you’ll be taking:
1. Search and select a scooter.
After going to dealerships and shops, or searching online, make a list of your possible options. Compare them based on brand, model, features, and price. Consider if you are buying a General Light Motorcycle (below 50cc), a General Heavy Motorcylce (50 to 250cc), or a Large Heavy Motorcycle (above 250cc).
If you are buying a secondhand scooter, don’t forget to check and take it for a test drive, to make sure that it is still in good condition.
2. Buy and pay for the scooter.
Once you’ve chosen a scooter, it’s time to buy it! If you are buying a used scooter, it would be a good idea to bring a Chinese-speaking friend who can act as translator. This way, you can ask for details and make sure that you are getting a good deal from the seller!
3. Apply for registration/transfer of ownership.
Just like when buying a car, scooters need to be registered under your name. If you are buying from a dealership, they will usually handle registration. On the other hand, if you purchased a secondhand scooter, you and the seller need to go to the nearest Motor Vehicle Office to transfer its ownership. This process involves submitting the scooter’s registration card and identification (IDs) of both parties, among other requirements.
Additional Reminders
After buying a scooter, what else do you need to do? Here are some important reminders for you as a vehicle owner:
1. Buy a parking space (if necessary).
In some office buildings, workers may need to pay a fee for parking their scooters. Fortunately, in most apartments, parking for scooters is free; the same goes for parking them on streets.
2. Activate your vehicle’s ETC account.
If you are using a Large Heavy Motorcycle (above 250cc), you’ll need to activate an Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) account for it. The ETC is a system that automatically collects toll payment from vehicles that pass through national highways in Taiwan.
3. Buy and renew insurance yearly.
Purchasing a vehicle involves buying compulsory insurance, which may come in handy in case of a road accident. To get bigger coverage, you can buy third party insurance (optional), as well as driver’s injury insurance (optional).
4. Pay for taxes yearly.
For scooters 150cc and above, you’ll need to pay a license plate tax and fuel tax annually. On the other hand, electric scooters do not require fuel tax.
5. Get vehicle checks regularly.
If the scooter you bought is five years old or older, it would need to take an emissions test every year. Be sure to have the oil changed and repairs made regularly, too.
6. Follow traffic rules and regulations.
As a vehicle owner, you are responsible for your own safety, and those of your passengers and fellow motorists — every time you go on the road. Hence, you’ll need to follow traffic laws and regulations at all times!
Using a scooter is a great way to get around, whether you live in the city or in a rural area of Taiwan. Scooters are also easier to maintain and less expensive than four-wheeled vehicles.
That being said, Taiwan has an excellent public transportation system, which includes buses, trains, and taxis. If you’re the kind of person who prefers to commute, check out this guide on navigating public transportation within the country.