HOW TO GET A MOTORCYCLE LICENSE

Securing your Alabama motorcycle license can be done with a few short steps.

1. Firstly, you need to be at least 16 years of age for a Class M motorcycle license or 14 years old to be eligible for a motor-driven cycle license. The latter is a restricted license to operate a motor-driven cycle only, i.e., a moped.

2. Additionally, you must pass a DPS motorcycle knowledge test (more on that below) OR take a motorcycle safety course.

The DPS knowledge test is an essential component of securing your license, and you will need to study the Alabama Motorcycle Operator Manual to prepare adequately for this test. Taking and passing this test is a key part of obtaining your license, so practice before taking it.

To earn your Alabama motorcycle license, you must have an endorsement on your license to legalize it. Pass your DPS motorcycle knowledge exam or complete a safety course to achieve this endorsement.

It’s also worth knowing what you must bring to the DPS office when applying for your license:

• Bring your out-of-state license, if applicable, and your Social Security card.

• Ensure you have at least one primary form of ID (including a US passport, certified birth certificate, Alabama ID card, etc.).

Visiting your local DMV office in Alaska is the best way of making this process as smooth as possible.

You must bring proof you have completed a skills test and fill out a license application form. Providing acceptable legal documentation and paying a $20 license fee are other key steps in the process.

You must also ensure you understand and adhere to the eligibility requirements for your Class M1 motorcycle license.

You must:

• be at least 16 years old (if you’re under 18, you will need written permission from your parent or legal guardian)

• have held your instruction permit for 6 months (more on this below)

• have completed either an MSP education course or an on-road motorcycle skills test

Please note that you cannot take your road skills test during winter. The road must be free of snow and ice. A payment of $15 is required for this test.

Earning your permit is a key first step toward securing your motorcycle license, and a few steps are involved in the process.

You’ll need to head to the local DMV and:

• pass the written examination

• pass a vision screening

• submit a D1 form Application for Alaska Driver License, Permit, or Identification Card

• provide proof of your legal name, date of birth, AK residency, and SSN

• pay the $15 motorcycle permit fee

Alaska doesn’t require you to take a motorcycle education course, and you can waive the road skills test provided you complete a Motorcycle Safety Foundation course.

You must be at least 16 years old to apply for a motorcycle license or endorsement in Arizona.

You must obtain an instruction permit if you are under 18 and want to gain a Class M motorcycle license. You must have held this permit for six months and it needs to be valid at the time of your application.

Completing any DMV-approved motorcycle education program is another essential part of securing your permit. Alternatively, your parent or guardian can certify in writing that you’ve completed a minimum of 30 hours of motorcycle riding practice.

An endorsement is when your Class M license is combined with another type of license in Arizona.

You’ll need an instruction permit for at least 6 months, complete the DMV-approved education program, and pass a knowledge test, vision exam, and an on-cycle test.

As for these exams, the main one you’ll need to take is a driving skills exam. You should study the AZ Motorcycle Operator Manual to gain the knowledge you need to do this more effectively.

You must be at least 16 years old, hold an instruction permit, and complete an education program to get your motorcycle license in Arkansas. Applicants must pass an MSF Rider Course.

Once you have completed the relevant exams, take your MSF certificate and licensing documents to the Arkansas Revenue Office to secure your license.

The eligibility requirements for your license vary depending upon the type of license you want, and there are two types of licenses you can apply for:

• Class M license - With this license, you must be at least 16 years old, allowing you to ride any motorcycle of more than 250 cc. You’ll need to also pay a $40 license fee.

• Class MD license - This license is for those aged between 14 and 15 and permits them to ride a motor-drive cycle of 250 cc or less.

If you’re seeking a motorcycle permit in Arkansas, you must:

• ensure you provide proof of ID

• pass the written knowledge exams

• pass the vision test

• pay the necessary fees

The permit is valid for 12 months, and you cannot renew it. Once you get your permit, you can practice for your road test to secure your license.

You’ll need to complete Arkansas motorcycle education courses to get your license.

If you take the approved MSF rider course, Arkansas OMV will allow you to skip the motorcycle road skills test, However, you will need to present the completed MSF course within 90 days to enjoy this perk.

There are different requirements in place for an M1 or M2 motorcycle license in California depending on your age.

For minors between 15-and-a-half and 17-and-a-half years old, you’ll need to submit a DL 389, have a Class C driver license or bring proof of completion of both driver training and driver education, and pass both the motorcycle driver knowledge and driver knowledge test.

For those over 18 but under 21, you need to submit a DL 389 and pass both the motorcycle driver knowledge and driver knowledge test.

If you’re 21 years old or older, you’re not required to enroll in the California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP) training course, but it is encouraged.

The eligibility requirements for a California motorcycle license are as follows:

• Pass a vision exam

• Pay the required fees

• Pass the applicable skills and knowledge tests

• Complete a Driver License or Identification Card Application

• Get a signature from your parent or guardian if you’re a minor

• Have an instruction permit for at least 6 months if you’re under 21

• Certificates of Completion of Motorcycle Training if you’re under 21

• Certificates of Completion of driver education and behind-the-wheel driver training if you’re under 18

In Colorado, you’ll need a motorcycle license and an endorsement, which you secure by:

• passing an exam

• buying a permit

• or completing an MSF course

You’ll need to pay $33 for a Driver License and then a further $2 for the Motorcycle Endorsement.

You have two endorsement options.

1. The Class “M” endorsement allows you to drive two- and three-wheel motorcycles.

2. A Class 3 endorsement means you can only ride motorcycles with 3 wheels.

Obtaining a permit means submitting proof of identity, age, and the place you live, as well as being able to pass a written test.

There is, of course, a small fee as well, which should only set you back around $18.52.

Law in Colorado requires minors under the age of 18 to buy and hold a motorcycle instruction permit for one-year before they can add a motorcycle endorsement to their license.

For those under the age of 16, you’ll need to be under the direct supervision of an MSF motorcycle instructor at all times while operating the vehicle.

In Connecticut, you’ll need to apply for a permit to then work toward getting a motorcycle endorsement on your license. The fee for a motorcycle learner’s permit is $16.

A learner’s permit enables you to drive a motorcycle and get experience on the road for 60 days. There are restrictions in place, and you can renew your permit once during the same calendar year.

The restrictions that you need to adhere to are as follows:

• You can only drive in Connecticut

• You need to wear protective headgear that conforms to the minimum requirements as per Section 14-289g of the Connecticut General Statutes

• You need to wear vision-protecting equipment – this includes but is not limited to wind screens, windshields, face shields, glasses, and goggles

• The permit is not valid on limited-access highways

• You cannot carry passengers

• Daylight hours driving only

To get this motorcycle learner’s permit, you will need to have a valid Connecticut driver’s license, complete Form R-229 for a non-commercial driver’s license and provide a notarized certificate of parental consent if you’re not yet 18.

You’ll also need to make an appointment at a DMV office for a vision and motorcycle knowledge test. Study the Connecticut Driver’s Manual and Connecticut Motorcycle Operator’s Manual to pass the 16-question knowledge test. This test costs $40. You’ll then receive your permit in the mail within 20 business days.

You can operate a two- or three-wheel motorcycle on public highways if you have an “M” motorcycle endorsement. This requires you to complete a novice motorcycle safety course that the DMV has approved. Once you’ve done this, you can visit a DMV branch office or hub to get an endorsement added to your license.

You’ll need a motorcycle endorsement on your driver’s license. To acquire this, you’ll need to pass a road skills test and a written exam, unless you complete the approved rider education program.

You’ll get your motorcycle permit by passing a knowledge exam. The permit is valid for 6 months, and you will be able to extend your permit one time for an additional 6 months for just $5.

If you’re over 18, you can get your endorsement by:

• showing your permit

• passing the state’s road skills test and written examination OR completing the motorcycle rider education course

• signing the right documents

Those under 18 must meet graduated driver’s license requirements and complete an approved driver’s education course.

Eligibility requirements include being over 18, obtaining a learner’s permit, passing exams or taking a motorcycle education course (which allows you to waive the written and road skills tests).

Again, those under 18 must complete a motorcycle education course and get their parents’ signatures.

In Florida, you must be a minimum of 16 to get your motorcycle license. Different requirements depend upon whether you want to get a license only or an endorsement - though both are crucial.

If you have a Class E license, you’ll need to complete a Motorcycle Safety Foundation Basic Rider Course.

You’ll then need to head to the local DHSMV office and bring your MSF Basic Rider Course certificate and ID to get your endorsement. You’ll need to do this within one year of passing the Rider Course.

Motorcycle education is a core part of gaining your license and completing the Motorcycle Safety Foundation Basic Rider Course is a prerequisite for applicants before applying.

Learning the basic skills and techniques for riding on two wheels is essential.

Getting a Florida “motorcycle only” license requires you to be over 16.

• If you're between 16-18, you’ll need to hold a Class E learner’s license (for 1 year) and have zero moving traffic violations. You will also have to pass a vision test and a written exam.

• If you are over 18, you must pass the Basic Rider Course and hold a Class E learner’s license.

To operate a motorcycle in Georgia, you’ll need a Class M Instructional Permit or a Class M license.

To get a permit, you must be over 16 and head to your local DDS office. Bring proof of ID with you and fill in a license application. You’ll have to pass a vision test and a motorcycle knowledge test.

16-year-olds will need to complete a Georgia Driver Training and Driver Education Course, which consists of six hours of practical behind-the-wheel instruction and 30 hours of theoretical instruction.

If you’re under the age of 18, you need to present a Certification of School Enrollment, and you’ll need a parent or legal guardian to sign the Form for Driver’s License/ID/Permit and a Responsible Adult Affidavit.

To receive a Class M license, you must be at least 17 years old and have a valid proof of ID. There are two ways you can go about getting your license.

The first is to take a Motorcycle Safety Program Course, which involves getting professional motorcycle handling training. You’ll be provided with a motorcycle, and you’ll get a 90-day Motorcycle License Test Waiver if you complete the course successfully. This means you can bypass the on-cycle skills and knowledge test at a Customer Service Center (CSC).

The second option is to head to a CSC and apply directly. You’ll need to pass a vision, on-cycle skills, and knowledge test. You’ll need to provide your own motorcycle for this.

You’ll need to get a Class 2 license to operate a motor scooter or motorcycle in Hawaii.

If you want a motorcycle license in Hawaii, you first need a permit, which means a trip to the local licensing office.

You’ll need to provide proof of ID and two documents for Proof of Residence. Furthermore, you must successfully pass the rules of road written test if you don’t hold a Class 3 license, as well as passing the motorcycle written test. You also need to have a clear driving record on the National Driver Registry and successfully pass vision screening.

Submitting credentials is a key part of getting your motorcycle license in Hawaii, and these are some of the key things you need to submit:

• proof of age

• residency

• social security card

• written proof of passing motorcycle road skills tests (or certificate for MSF course)

• license fee

To complete your motorcycle skill test, you need to present your current registration and motorcycle permit. You also need to present your current motorcycle insurance card and safety inspection form. A DOT inspected helmet is also needed, and make sure you wear long sleeves or a jacket with shoes or boots and pants.

You’ll need to have a standard Idaho driver’s license (Class A, B, C, or D), and then get a motorcycle endorsement (M) on the driver’s license. Until you get your endorsement, you can get a motorcycle instruction permit on a temporary basis.

Those below 21 will have to complete an Idaho Skills Training Advantage for Riders education course - for those over 21 completing this will waive the road skills exam.

In addition to the cost of a regular driver’s license, you’ll have several fees to pay:

• You’ll pay a one-time fee of $15 for the Motorcycle “M” endorsement

• You’ll pay $15 for your motorcycle instruction permit, which is valid for 180 days

• You’ll pay $25 to your examiner for your Motorcycle Skills Test

• You’ll pay $5 to the county for your Motorcycle Knowledge Test

You’ll need a standard Idaho driver’s license to get your motorcycle permit. To secure your permit, you must visit your local Idaho DMV office and present:

• proof of citizenship

• proof of residency

• proof of passing the motorcycle written knowledge exam

Your permit will be valid for 12 months.

Once you have your permit, you can apply for a motorcycle endorsement. To do this, you can either take and pass your motorcycle safety education course or practice to pass your DMV road skills exam.

Then you can provide ID and proof of course completion to secure your endorsement.

Before securing endorsement, the state requires everyone under the age of 21 to complete a STAR (Skill Training Advantage for Riders) Course. But it is recommended for riders of all ages due to the important skills learned and the fact it can waive the road skills exam.

You’ll need to get an “M” class license to ride a motorcycle license in Illinois.

You can complete an optional Motorcycle Safety Course. Once you’ve successfully got your completion card, simply present it at an Illinois Secretary of State Driver’s Services Facility. It’s that simple.

The Motorcycle Safety Course is mandatory if you’re under the age of 18. Once you present this at an Illinois Secretary of State Driver’s Services Facility, you’ll also need to do a driving and written exam.

You must be over 16 years and 90 days of age. To secure your motorcycle endorsement in Indiana, you need to either obtain a motorcycle learner’s permit and take a skills exam or you’ll have to pass a Motorcycle Operator Safety Education course.

To get a motorcycle endorsement in Indiana, you will first require a motorcycle learner’s permit and pass a skills test or motorcycle safety course. Once you have completed these, you should head to the BMV licensing office with the necessary paperwork.

A learner’s permit is required before applying for your endorsement (unless you passed your Motorcycle Operator Safety Education course). To secure your permit, head to your BMV office with the following documents:

• Provide a valid license

• Proof of ID

• Get your application signed by a parent (if under 18)

• Pass a vision test and knowledge test

• Pay your fee

In Iowa, the minimum age for a motorcycle license is 16, and you will need to complete a motorcycle operating knowledge test, motorcycle knowledge test, skills driving test, and vision screening. It costs $2 year to add this to your existing license or $6 per year for the motorcycle license only.

To be eligible for an Iowa driving license, you must be at least 16 years of age (16 for an endorsement and 14 for a permit).

You’ll also need to earn a motorcycle permit, complete a safety and education course, pass a skill exam, and pay all the necessary fees.

Before securing your license or endorsement in Iowa, you’ll need a motorcycle permit, and this means heading to the MVD licensing office with the right paperwork. This includes:

• proof of residency

• successful completion of tests (vision and written)

• money for fees

Taking a motorcycle education course is essential in Iowa, and the MSF course teaches you basic skills and techniques for riding on the road and will result in waiving the on-road motorcycle skills test.

You can transfer your out-of-state license if need be. To gain your Class M license from your local Department of Revenue (DOR), you must get an endorsement on your existing license and pass a knowledge exam.

To get a permit, you must be at least 14, pass a vision screening, written knowledge test, and provide proof of ID at the County Treasurer's office.

A Class M endorsement requires you to be at least 17 and hold a valid state driver’s license. Again, you must pass a knowledge test, screening, education course, or an on-cycle skills test. Expect to pay between $9-20.

Military applicants are exempt from having to complete the written and driving exams if they complete the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) education course.

To gain your Kentucky motorcycle license, you must:

• be at least 18 or 16 with a valid immediate motor vehicle license

• have a valid motorcycle permit

• complete a motorcycle safety course or road skills exam

The first option is to book an appointment with the Kentucky State Police to apply for your permit by taking a written motorcycle test. This costs $15. You can then take your Motorcycle Skills test after 30 days have passed and get your license.

Another option is to sign up for a Basic Rider Course (BRC). The course consists of range, classroom, and online instruction time, taking between 15 and 20 hours. Once you’ve done this, you can apply for a license at any Driver Licensing Regional office. This costs $21.50 for four years or $43 for eight years.

To get your Louisiana motorcycle license, you need to hold a standard driver’s license and add a motorcycle endorsement.

Your Louisiana motorcycle endorsement is added to a basic license to allow you to operate a motorcycle. The endorsement fee is $12, and you must pass a motorcycle knowledge exam and an on-cycle skills test.

Taking the Louisiana Motorcycle Safety, Awareness, and Operator Training Program is essential for improving your knowledge. You can also take the Basic Rider Course, Intermediate Rider Course, or Advanced Rider Course.

Complete a hands-on rider education program to get your license. If you’re between the ages of 16 and 18, you’ll also need to take a basic driver education course. All new riders will also need to take this 15-hour course.

The average cost for this is approximately $325. You’ll do a motorcycle skills test and written test, and if you pass the written test, you’ll also get your motorcycle permit. You’ll receive a road test waiver for passing the skills test too.

If you don’t meet the requirements above for the permit/waiver, you’ll need to pass a written test to obtain your permit and submit an application form, providing proof of ID and citizenship. Additionally, you’ll have to pass a vision exam and a written knowledge test and pay the $35 fee.

A written exam is vital for earning your motorcycle permit and license. Passing both the written test and the skill test is essential, and you need to head to the BMV with your certification.

If you don’t pass the skills exam, you can take a motorcycle road test. The permit fee covers one test; any tests thereafter cost $35 each.

How you get your motorcycle license in Maryland depends on your age, current license, and whether or not you’ve had a motorcycle license before.

A motorcycle permit in Maryland is essential for helping you learn and practice, but you can skip this by completing a motorcycle safety course. You’ll have to bring paperwork to the MVA and complete:

• vision test

• road signs exam

• written test

To be eligible, you must:

• be 16 years and 6 months (and complete a motorcycle safety course if you’re under 18)

• complete an education course

• pass a written test

• take a road test

• pay the fees

You will need to complete the Maryland Motorcycle Safety Program’s Basic Rider Course if you’re not yet 18-years-old. Even if you’re over the age of 18, taking a course can be highly beneficial, as you won’t need to take the skills test, knowledge test, or obtain a learner’s permit.

To ride a motorcycle in Massachusetts, you must have a Class M permit, license, and endorsement. A learner’s permit application costs $30.

Securing your Class M permit requires you to be at least 16, complete the right application form, show proof of residency, provide ID, give your social security number, and pay a fee of $30.

Adding a Class M endorsement to your license is integral, and you will need to hold a regular state license and a motorcycle permit to apply for this. Passing a road test or a Motorcycle Rider Education Program and paying a fee is also essential.

You’ll need to take an MREP-approved motorcycle safety course to learn the basic skills and techniques for riding on the road. The MSF Basic Rider and Experienced Rider Education courses are a great option to help with this.

You’ll need a valid state license and a motorcycle endorsement to secure your motorcycle license.

In Michigan, you are issued a Temporary Instruction Permit (TIP), which allows you to practice riding legally before you have a license. The fee is $16; you must pass a written test and vision screening to get the permit.

Once you have gotten your permit and gotten some practice in, it’s time to apply for your endorsement. This involves passing a written test and an on-cycle skills test and paying a fee of $16.

If you’re under the age of 18, you must also provide proof of completing an approved motorcycle safety course.

A motorcycle safety course is a requirement for applicants under 18, as well as those who may have failed their on-cycle skill exam twice. But it’s also worthwhile anyway to keep you knowledgeable and up to date.

Courses will cost around $50, and there are a variety of courses you can take, including:

• Basic Rider Course

• Returning Rider Basic Rider Course

• 3-Wheel Rider Course

• Advanced Rider Course

Getting a motorcycle license in Minnesota involves being over 16, having a valid state driver’s license, passing a motorcycle skills test, and passing a written knowledge test to secure your permit.

If under 18, you’ll need to take the MMSC basic rider course.

If you’re over the age of 18, you can go down the route of using the Skills Test Waiver and Third-Party Testing option. With this, if you have a motorcycle instruction permit and a Minnesota driver’s license, by taking the Minnesota Motorcycle Safety Center Basic Rider Course, you’ll be able to waive the riding skills test for your motorcycle endorsement.

Before you take the BRC test, you’ll need to get your motorcycle instruction permit by passing a state knowledge test. You can use the Minnesota Motorcycle and Motorized Bicycle Manual to study for this.

Another option if you already have a valid Minnesota driver’s license is to acquire your permit, pass a riding state skills test, and pay for a duplicate license fee at a DVS exam station.

To get your permit, you must:

• visit your local DVS office

• bring your state license

• pay a $29 fee

• pass a motorcycle knowledge test

A motorcycle skills test is essential to securing your license; you’ll need your permit and the right equipment to take the test.

You will also need to take and pass a basic rider course, which costs $245, before getting your permit.

To get a Mississippi motorcycle license, you’ll need to be at least 16 and have a standard state license, as well as secure an endorsement and possibly a permit. You can get your motorcycle learner’s permit, but you need to hold it until you’re 17 or for one year, whichever occurs first.

The written exam is required to earn your license endorsement. Once you pass, you can take your road test immediately or get a permit to practice from your local DPs office.

After the written exam, you’ll need to take the road test to earn your endorsement, which you can do simultaneously (or book a separate appointment). You must bring your state license and pay the $5 fee.

The minimum age for getting a license in Missouri is 15 ½, and those under 16 must take a Motorcycle Rider Training Course.

You can apply for a permit at 15 ½ (provided you have completed your course). You’ll also need to have a parent or guardian sign your statement, present your ID, pass tests, and pay the fee of $9.25.

If you’re over 16, you will not need to take the motorcycle rider training course, and the fee decreases slightly to only $7.

To secure your Class M license:

• you must be at least 18

• pass the Class F & M written and on-cycle exams

• pass the vision and road sign exams

• provide proof of ID

• pay the fees - $10 for a 3-year license or $20 for a 6-year license

If you’re under 16, you must complete a Motorcycle Rider Training Course before getting your permit. You can also take an Introductory Motorcycle Experience, the Basic Rider Course (which means you can waive the on-cycle skills exam), and the Advanced Rider Course.

To get a motorcycle endorsement in Montana, you need to pass a written test, complete a driving test, and keep it renewed. Fees depend on your age and license type.

Please note that you can only take the skills test between April and November, as it’s weather dependent. Motorcycle road tests will not be conducted on wet roads.

If you successfully pass a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Basic Rider Course, the driving test may be waived.

You’ll need proof of ID, residency, and if you’re under the age of 18 you won’t be able to apply until you’ve held a Provisional Operator’s Permit for one year in total. You’ll also need to:

• provide a valid permit

• pass a vision exam

• take a written test (if you have no permit)

• take an on-road test

• pay $29

If you have a permit already, which is up to date, and endorsed, you’ll need to take a vision test. You must take the road and written tests if you’ve not held a permit before.

There are a few DMV-approved educational courses you can take that will help you secure a license, and successfully completing one of these courses will allow you to waive your motorcycle knowledge and skills test.

To get your Nevada motorcycle license, you must get a motorcycle permit or complete the required DMV tests. There is a $25 testing fee.

However, the DMV skills and written tests can be waived if you take a certified Motorcycle Safety Foundation course.

Once you’ve done this, take your MSF card and your current Nevada license to a DMV office to get your new license. Courses are accepted up to one year after completion. It costs $8.25.

You don’t need to get an instruction permit if you take an MSF course and you’re aged 18 or older. However, if you’re under 18, you must hold a permit for at least six months.

If you want to get a New Hampshire motorcycle license, you’ll need to get a permit first.

Applying for and securing your permit is essential if you’re going to gain your full license. You’ll need to take a written exam, then head to the DMV office with your driver’s license and application form, take a vision test, complete a knowledge test, and pay the $30 permit fee.

You’ll then need to either pass a motorcycle skills test at the DMB or take a motorcycle rider training program. Once you’ve done this, you can apply for your motorcycle license. This costs $30.

To get your motorcycle license in New Jersey, you have two options. You can either enroll in a Basic Rider Course, which is essential if you’re yet to turn 18, or you can apply without doing this course.

You don’t need a permit if you go down this route, which consists of roughly 10 hours of riding and 5 hours of classroom instruction. You’ll also need to do a vision test and pay a fee.

You’ll need a motorcycle examination permit, which involves passing vision and knowledge tests, as well as providing 6 points of ID verification. You’ll also need to complete 20 days of practice riding, pass a motorcycle road test, and then pay the required fees to get your motorcycle endorsement.

To apply for your license, you must submit proof of identity, residency, and social security number and pay the fee.

To get your motorcycle credentials, you’ll need to head to your local DMV and take:

• your MSF course certificate

• proof of identification and residency

• enough money to cover the fee

Contact the MVD to find out the varying fees in New Mexico.

There are three types of endorsements you can get in New Mexico:

1. W endorsement - which allows you to ride any motorcycle that has 2 or 3 wheels and has 100 cc power

2. Y endorsement - which allows you to ride any motorcycle that has 2 or 3 wheels and has 50-100 cc power

3. Z endorsement - which allows you to ride any motorcycle that has 2 or 3 wheels and has less than 50 cc power

Completing the Basic Rider Course is hugely important, though optional for riders over 18. Completing the course will exempt you from taking the written test with the MVD.

If you want your NY motorcycle license:

1. get your learner permit

2. pass a New York DMV on-road skills test

3. Get your license

Applying for a learner’s permit is essential for securing your license. This process includes passing a knowledge test, applying, and providing proof of identity.

The motorcycle license eligibility requirements state that you must be at least 17 for your Class M license or 16 for your junior Class MJ license. You’ll also need a learner’s permit and pass the on-road motorcycle skills test.

To get your North Carolina license, you’ll need a standard state driver’s license and endorsement, as well as passing a written knowledge test and an on-cycle skills test.

Endorsement eligibility requirements are that you must be at least 16 years old and pass a written knowledge and on-road motorcycle skills test.

The endorsement fee is $2.55, and if you’re under the age of 18, you’ll need a permit, as well as completing a motorcycle education course.

To claim a motorcycle permit in North Carolina, you must be between 16 and 18 and hold a full provisional or standard stats license. You’ll also need to ensure you head to the North Carolina DMV with:

• proof of ID

• pass the written knowledge test

• take a vision screening

• pay the permit fee of $21.50

Securing your endorsement means visiting the DMV office with proof of age and residency, holding a permit, or passing the written knowledge test, passing the on-road skills test, and paying the $2.55 endorsement fee.

To secure your motorcycle license, you will need to earn a permit, and you’ll need to be at least 14 years old. You must have passed a road skills exam and completed a motorcycle safety course.

Earning your motorcycle permit involves a visit to your local Department of Transport, where you should provide:

• proof of ID

• your social security number

• pass a written knowledge exam and vision screening test

• pay the fee ($8)

In North Dakota, you need to be at least 14 years old, and you will have to earn your permit, practice riding, complete an MSF course, and pass the on-cycle skills exam.

Applicants aged 14 to 15 will need to take an MSF course, which will allow them to waive the motorcycle road skills test. Regarding course fees, the written knowledge test fee is $5 per test, whilst the on-road exam will also cost $5.

Visit Ohio BMV with proof of ID, pass a written test, and complete a Basic Rider Course, as well as paying the necessary fee:

• $23.25 for age 18

• $22 for age 19

• $20.75 for age 20

• $24.50 for ages 21+

You can receive your TIPIC at a minimum age of 15 ½, and you’ll need to study hard, complete your motorcycle knowledge test and vision test, supply proof of completion and ID, and pay the $26.50 fee.

If you’re under 18, you must hold your TIPIC for at least 6 months. To obtain your motorcycle-only license, you need to:

• complete a driver’s education course

• pass the basic rider course (which carries a $50 fee)

• complete a Fifty Hour Affidavit

• pass your skill test

• pay the fees, which differ by age ($25.75 aged 16, $24.50 aged 17 & $23.25 aged 18).

You’ll need a valid license to apply for your endorsement, and you will need to book and pass your knowledge test — practice in advance!

Passing the knowledge exam, obtaining your TIPIC, and then passing a skills test are all essential for helping you apply for your endorsement.

A motorcycle-only license allows you only to operate a motorcycle.

However, an endorsement can be added to any existing Class A, B, C, or D license to allow you to operate a motorcycle alongside a regular license.

Passing tests and securing a learner’s permit is essential too.

To secure a permit, you must be 14 or older and visit your local Oklahoma DPS with proof of ID, address, and citizenship. You’ll also need to pass a vision and a written knowledge exam and pay the permit fee.

Gaining an endorsement means you’ll need to be at least 16, have secured a learner’s permit, and have completed a motorcycle education course OR pass an on-road skill test.

You must enroll in a motorcycle education course in Oklahoma if you’re under 18.

To get your Oregon license, you must be at least 16 years old, own a standard driving license, earn your permit, take a course, and pay the necessary fees.

A new Oregon license with a motorcycle endorsement is $162, whilst an endorsement on an existing license will be $98.

To be eligible, you must fulfill the above-mentioned obligations and complete a Team Oregon motorcycle education course. Once you’ve done this, you can apply for a motorcycle instruction permit to practice.

To apply for your motorcycle permit, you will need to provide:

• your current state driver’s license

• proof of ID and residency

• pass a written knowledge test and a vision test

• pay the $30 fee

Taking the right education courses can help you with things like communication on the road, dealing with emergencies turning and stopping, and more.

You must earn a permit and pass a road exam to earn your Pennsylvania motorcycle license. And, if you're under 18, you’ll also be required to complete a safety course.

Getting your permit involves applying to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, along with proof of residency and ID.

You should also take a vision screening and written exam and pay the permit fee, which is $12.

Once you’ve got your learner’s permit, you’ll then need to schedule training through the Motorcycle Safety Program or taking a test at your local Driver License Center.

In Rhode Island, applicants must be at least 16 and hold a standard driver’s license (if 18+) or a provisional license (if 16-18). You must complete your motorcycle education course and apply for a permit.

A license will set you back $27.50.

You need to start by getting your permit, and then converting it into an “M” endorsement on your license within 18 months. The cost of a permit is $27.50 as well.

Your endorsement will require you to bring a valid state driving license (or transfer an out-of-state license) and pass a written knowledge and motorcycle road skills test.

Getting your South Carolina license involves being the right age, passing a motorcycle skills exam or safety course, and, if you’re under 18, you’ll need to take (and pass) an education and driving course.

To be eligible for your motorcycle license in South Carolina, you must:

• be at least 15 years old

• pass a motorcycle written knowledge test

• take a vision screening

• earn your permit

• pay the Class M license fee of $25

A permit is essential before you can get your full license. You can get yours by attending the South Carolina DMV. You will need:

• proof of ID, SSN, and residency

• consent from a parent or guardian if under 18

• completed permit & license application form

• evidence of insurance coverage

• passing a vision and written knowledge test

• paying the fees ($2.50 for permit, $2 for knowledge exam)

The Motorcycle Safety Foundation Basic Rider Course is a great way to learn essential skills for on the road and allows you to waive the motorcycle road skills test.

To secure your license in South Dakota, you must know the age requirements for each credential and pass a vision screening and written/on-road exams or a motorcycle education course. You’ll also have to pay the motorcycle license fee of $28.

To claim your permit, you must pass the vision and written tests, take an on-road exam, and present proof of ID.

If you receive an instruction permit, it’s valid for 12 months, and you must hold it for anywhere between 30-180 days (depending upon the courses you pass) to apply for your license.

Fees are $15 if you hold a regular driver’s license and $28 if you don’t.

A restricted minor’s permit is valid for 1 year, held until you turn 18, and can switch to a regular license. On a restricted permit, you are only eligible to ride between 6 am and 8 pm, and you need permission from your parent or guardian.

South Dakota motorcycle courses allow you to speed up getting your license and provide essential skills required for the future. You can take a motorcycle education course and a Basic Rider Course.

Getting a motorcycle license in Tennessee gives you two options:

1. Motorcycle-only license, which allows you to operate any motorcycle on 2 or 3 wheels of 126 cc+

2. Motorcycle-secondary license, an endorsement added to an existing license, allowing you to drive both your licensed vehicle and a motorcycle

To get your learner permit, you must:

• submit proof of ID and residency

• submit proof of your social security number

• proof of school attendance (if applicable)

• a valid certificate of MSF course completion or pass the written knowledge test/road skills test.

There’s also a $6.50 fee. ($3.50 for the license cost and a $3 application fee)

Taking the MSF Basic Rider Course means the state will waive the written and on-road exams and allow you to learn important and invaluable skills.

To secure your license, you need to be at least 15 years old and complete either a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course or pass a written exam.

You’ll also need to pass an on-road skills test and pay a licensing fee - $29 for a motorcycle license ($26 for the license and a $3 application cost).

To get your Texas license, you must visit the DPS office and submit your certificate of completion for your safety course, provide a Class C license and proof of ID, and pay the fee ($33 if 18+, $16 if under 18).

To be eligible for a Class M license in Texas, you’ll need:

• to be at least 15

• hold a Class C driver’s license

• enroll in a motorcycle safety course

Additionally, those under 18 must pass the written knowledge and road skills exams.

You’ll need to complete a motorcycle safety course, which means if you’re aged 15-17, you’ll need to have a Class C learner’s license, completion of a Driver’s Ed course, and a provisional driver’s license.

Those over 18 can complete this to waive the written and road exams and to learn important skills.

Your age will determine any restrictions on your Texas Class M license.

• J Restriction - this is for anyone under 18 and means they can only ride when supervised by someone at least 21.

• I Restriction - this is for anyone below 16 and restricts them from riding anything that is 250 cc+.

To get your motorcycle license in Utah, you need to be at least 16, have a valid state driver’s license, pass a vision test and written exam, complete a medical questionnaire, pass a skills test, and pay a nonrefundable fee for a duplicate driver license or renewal plus a fee of $18 for your motorcycle endorsement.

The skill test is now the last step in getting your endorsement (and you can even skip it if you’ve passed the state’s motorcycle rider’s course).

• bring your license and permit to the DLD

• complete your skills test

• pay the $18 endorsement fee

The rider courses allow you to waive the skills test and provide plenty of opportunities to learn the ropes and become a better rider.

To get your Vermont motorcycle license, you’ll need to be at least 16, have a valid state driver’s license, pass the skills test and written examination, and pay the fees.

If you don’t have a motorcycle endorsement, you can learn how to operate a motorcycle by getting your motorcycle learner’s permit. You can do this by either completing the Motorcycle Learner’s Permit Exam or a four-hour Vermont Motorcycle Awareness Program training course.

Endorsements are important in the process of applying for your motorcycle license.

• you must be at least 16

• have a valid driver’s license

• pass the motorcycle written exam

• pass the skills test exam

• pay the right fee

A motorcycle awareness program is the best way to learn basic riding skills and techniques and bypass the Vermont DMV testing process. The 4-hour course costs $185 and automatically qualifies you for a Vermont motorcycle license.

If you’re already a holder of a Virginia driver’s license, you can add a Class M3 or M2 designation to your license to operate a motorcycle.

If you’re 18 or older, you have two options. You can pass a vision screening and Virginia Rider Training Program course. Alternatively, you can take a vision screening, complete a motorcycle knowledge exam, acquire a learner’s permit for 30 days, and then pass the motorcycle road skills test.

If you’re under 18, you have the same options available. However, if you choose the latter, you need to hold your permit for 9 months rather than 30 days.

You must pass the motorcycle knowledge and skill tests to earn your Washington motorcycle license. Then you’ll need to submit your course completion card, driver’s license, and permit and pay the applicable fees.

You’ll need to pass a motorcycle knowledge test, bring your state license, and pay the $35 permit fee.

Visiting the Washington State licensing office to get your endorsement:

• you will need to be at least 16

• have a valid state driver's license

• pass the knowledge and skill test

• cover the cost of the fees ($30-$40)

Gaining your license in DC is done in the form of an endorsement added to your current license. Applicants will be required to pass a motorcycle knowledge and skills exam.

To be eligible for a motorcycle endorsement, you must be at least 18, have a valid state driver’s license, pass the motorcycle knowledge test, complete an approved demonstration course, and pay the $20 fee.

For your endorsement, head to the local DMV with:

• your valid driver’s license

• proof of passing the written exam

• course completion certificates

• an application form

• the relevant fees

All applicants are required to pass a motorcycle demonstration course, and you might also be able to take your motorcycle knowledge test beforehand.

Getting your valid motorcycle license in Mountain State involves passing all the necessary exams. Head to the West Virginia DMV with your West Virginia driver’s license, your permit, and proof of completion of the relevant tests and courses and pay the right fee.

To be eligible for your license in West Virginia, you must be at least 16, pass a written knowledge exam, and take a motorcycle driving test.

Your permit allows you to practice for your road test, and you can acquire one by heading to the DMV office with proof of ID, and state residency, passing a knowledge test, and paying a $5 permit fee.

Education courses allow you to waive the DMV skills test and can help you learn the basic skills and techniques for riding on public roads. Taking a Motorcycle Safety Awareness Program allows you to achieve this, and you’ll need a license or permit and the $100-course fee to complete it.

Getting your motorcycle license in Wisconsin is possible once you have passed your skills test or Basic Rider Course and have a valid driver’s license and a permit.

• Motorcycle Knowledge Test

• Vision Screening

• Sponsorship (for those aged 16-17)

• Driver Education (for those aged 16-17)

• Proof of enrollment in a Basic Rider Course before getting your permit (for those aged 16-17)

Visit the DMV after passing your knowledge, road signs, and vision tests, providing proof of ID and residency, and paying the right fees.

In Wyoming, your endorsement is attached to the license to permit you to ride your motorcycle. To be eligible, you must be at least 15 years old to get a permit and at least 17 to get a full license.

You’ll have to provide all documentation and proof of passing a motorcycle education course, as well as a written test.

Getting a permit is one of the key steps in this process, and you need to get it right to practice on the road. Passing the written test OR completing the motorcycle education course is part of this process.

You’ll also need to pass a vision screening and pay the permit fees ($20 or $10 for a restricted permit).

Getting your Wyoming endorsement means passing your written and skills tests (or completing an education course), providing proof of this, providing your permit, and paying the endorsement fee of $11.

The last thing you'll need to do is to pass a motorcycle skills test, which may require an additional fee; contact WYDOT to discuss this.

Understanding the requirements from state to state is important. Though many of them are similar in many ways, knowing the terms of each state can make the process much easier.

Contact your local DMV with other questions and stay safe on the open road!

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Data accuracy is subject to this article's publication date.