They're not even issuing them for Kitas holders now either, so even if you have a work visa you're not allowed to get a license, its absolute bullshit. I think its just a way for cops to make extra cash with bribes. 

If you decide you want to drive with out a license though and you get pulled over, ask for a blue slip, do not pay the bride. You can get into a lot of trouble paying off the cops. On top of that its more expensive, Cops will say the fine is 2.5 mill if you want to pay it the legal way, then they will ask you for a 500k bribe. The fine with out a license here is 250k and you pay for it by transferring the money directly into the account of the courts. You then take the payment slip to the police station where the motorbike/car papers are being held and exchange it.