How to Get a Motorcycle License

General Licensing Process

1. How to Get a Motorcycle License Picture 1
   Get a motorcycle handbook from your government's motor vehicle bureau. This book provides the information used to draw up the questions on the motorcycle learner's permit written exam. In most jurisdictions, the easiest way to get a copy is to download it from your motor vehicle bureau's website.^[1]

   1. You can also get a copy at the local branch of your motor vehicle bureau.
   2. Don't just skim through the book. Read it, take notes, and do any practice tests that may be provided.
   3. Consult the handbook or contact the motor vehicle bureau regarding the basic requirements for getting a motorcycle learner's permit. For instance, you typically have to be at least 16 years old in U.S. states.
2. How to Get a Motorcycle License Picture 2
   Apply for your motorcycle learner's permit. If you meet the basic criteria (minimum age, etc.) and have studied the handbook, go to the motor vehicle bureau to fill out a learner's permit application. You'll probably be required to pay a permit application fee and pass written and vision tests to receive one.^[2]

   1. If you fail the written exam, you'll likely be able to take it again if you pay another application fee.
   2. The vision test is typically pretty rudimentary. If you need to wear glasses or contacts to pass it, a notation will likely be added to your permit (and later license) that you must wear them when operating a motorcycle.
3. How to Get a Motorcycle License Picture 3
   Practice operating a motorcycle with your learner's permit. You'll always have to wait some period of time before you can test for a full license. In some U.S. states the mandatory waiting period is 20 days, in others it's at least 6 months. In any case, spend this time practicing your skills.^[3]

   1. Obey the restrictions placed on the learner's permit. You may only be allowed to operate a motorcycle during daytime, and not be allowed to carry passengers.
   2. Don't drink any amount of alcohol before getting on your motorcycle. Learner's permits usually come with very severe blood alcohol content restrictions (often 0%).
4. How to Get a Motorcycle License Picture 4
   Complete an approved motorcycle training course to get your license (option 1). As the end of your learner's permit waiting period draws near, sign up for a privately-operated but government-approved motorcycle training course. In many jurisdictions, successfully completing this fairly brief (often 2-3 day) course means you can skip taking the road test at the motor vehicle bureau and go straight to getting your full license!^[4]

   1. Once you pass the course, you'll get a certificate to bring to your motor vehicle bureau. If this is accepted in lieu of a road test, you'll be able to apply for your license at that point. Contact the office ahead of time so you know what to bring with you (ID, payment, forms, etc.).
   2. Make sure the course is approved by your motor vehicle bureau. In most U.S. states, courses overseen by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation are government-sanctioned and can allow you to skip the motor vehicle bureau road test.
5. How to Get a Motorcycle License Picture 5
   Sign up for the licensing road test at your motor vehicle bureau (option 2). Keep practicing your skills until the waiting period on your learner's permit is up. Then, visit your local motor vehicle bureau, fill out the motorcycle license application, and pay the application fee. Many U.S. states provide this application form on their website, but you'll likely have to submit it in person.^[5]

   1. In some jurisdictions, you may be able to apply and take the road test on the same day, but typically you have to schedule a future test day.
   2. If possible, check the weather forecast before scheduling your road test, since you won't want to take it in the rain.
6. How to Get a Motorcycle License Picture 6
   Obtain a street-legal motorcycle you can ride for your test. You can buy one, rent one, or borrow one, but the motorcycle has to be legally registered for road travel in your jurisdiction. The motor vehicle bureau doesn't provide loaner bikes!^[6]

   1. Cruiser models with a low seat height are ideal for taking your motorcycle test on because they have a lower center of gravity.
   2. Verify you have insurance, valid license plates and registration for the motorcycle. You risk receiving a ticket if any aspects of your bike are not in compliance with the law.
   3. Motorcycle insurance is a separate policy from car insurance. Contact your insurer for information.
7. How to Get a Motorcycle License Picture 7
   Pass the road test and complete the paperwork for your license. If you know the course they use for the road test—sometimes it's just the motor vehicle bureau's parking lot—visit it during off hours before your test day. That way, you can practice braking, starting, stopping, and turning techniques while the office is closed.^[7]

   1. If you fail the test, you can usually take it again at another time. There may be a limit on how many times you can take the test, however.
   2. Once you pass the road test, you'll just have to fill out some paperwork and (likely) pay some fees to get your motorcycle license or driver's license endorsement.
8. How to Get a Motorcycle License Picture 8
   Get your motorcycle license and hit the road! Whether you pass the road test given at the motor vehicle bureau or at an approved training course, you'll have to get your actual license at the motor vehicle bureau. Make sure you know what paperwork and fees are involved in the process. In most cases, getting your photograph taken is the last step in the process.^[8]

   1. You may get a temporary license until the permanent one is mailed to you, or be able to pick up your permanent license right away.
   2. Carry your license with you at all times when operating a motorcycle.
   3. In the U.S., a valid license in one state will permit you to ride legally in all the other states. If you move to a new state, though, you'll have to apply for a new license and may need to pass written and/or road tests.