Ready to hit the open road in Georgia? Riders on two (and three) wheels must jump through some extra hoops, including getting a Class M motorcycle license.
This article outlines the requirements for applying for a Class M license and tips on making your visit to the Georgia Department of Driver Services a success.
Eligibility Requirements for a Motorcycle License in Georgia
Before you can apply for a motorcycle license, you must meet two basic requirements:
- You must be at least 17 years old, and
- You must pass a skills test or a safety course
Additional Requirements for Minors: Joshua’s Law
For riders under age 18, there are additional requirements that fall under the Teen Driver Education Bill, known as “Joshua’s Law.”
Most significant is that 16-year-old riders cannot get a full-fledged motorcycle license. Instead, they are eligible for a motorcycle permit only, which is referred to as a Class MP (short for motorcycle permit).
There are several methods to get this permit, each involving the following:
– Either online or classroom instruction
– Hands-on training with a parent or guardian
There are also options to receive training from certified schools.
Once a minor receives a motorcycle permit, additional restrictions for operating a bike apply:
– Permit holders can only ride during daylight hours
– Passengers are not allowed to ride on the bike
– Limited access roadways are off-limits
– Helmets are mandatory (this law applies to all riders, regardless of age)
Document Requirements
Because a motorcycle license is a government document, the government also requires you to prove your identity to receive your license.
The documents or information you will need include:
– A government-issued ID that shows your address and citizenship status (lawful status to reside in the U.S. is permissible)
– A Social Security Number
– Proof of school enrollment or graduation (for minors)
– Ability to pay a fee to receive your license. In Georgia, the cost is $25 for a five-year license or $32 for eight years.
Required Tests for Getting Your Georgia Motorcycle License
There are also a series of tests each rider must pass. These include:
– Knowledge exam
– Vision exam
– Motorcycle skills test
About the Motorcycle Skills Test
Whether your vehicle is two wheels or three wheels, you’re subject to a motorcycle skills test if the engine size is at least 51cc, and the test has to be taken at an authorized center. Mopeds do not fall into this category.
The test measures the following:
– Your ability to control the bike
– Responsiveness to hazardous conditions
– Operational maneuvers at 15 mph
– Ability to follow instructions
– Overall safety score
Waiver Eligibility
You can potentially avoid taking the knowledge and skills test if you complete a course through the Georgia Motorcycle Safety Program (GMSP). This course can potentially serve as a substitute for testing because it involves in-depth classroom instruction and functional training on the bike.
At the end of the course, an evaluator will conduct a GMSP test in a controlled environment. In addition to passing the on-cycle portion of the test, aspiring riders must also score at least an 80% on the program’s written evaluation.
To be eligible for the waiver, you must also complete the course within 90 days of applying for your motorcycle license. The course does not waive the requirements for minors who fall under the Joshua’s Law umbrella.
Enjoy the Open Road with Your New Georgia Motorcycle License
The team at Law Tigers offers hearty congratulations to all new riders who have put in the time to become responsible riders. As a team of riders, our lawyers are on your side. Contact us at 1-888-863-7216 to find a motorcycle lawyer near you and receive your free Riders Benefit Kit.
