Whether you’re dreaming of weekend rides through Utah’s scenic landscapes or planning to commute on two wheels, obtaining your motorcycle permit is a crucial first step. This comprehensive guide covers how to get a motorcycle permit in Utah.
Do I Need a Motorcycle License in Utah?
Yes, you need a motorcycle license to legally operate a motorcycle in Utah. This license ensures you have the necessary skills and knowledge to ride safely on the road.
There are two ways to obtain a motorcycle license in Utah: You can either get a motorcycle permit and then pass a skills test, or you can complete a Utah motorcycle riding course to waive the skills test (but you’ll still need to pass a written exam at the end of the course).
How Long Does It Take to Get a Motorcycle License in Utah?
The time it takes to get a motorcycle license in Utah depends on the route you choose. If you opt for the skills test, it can be completed in about an hour. If you take the 15-hour motorcycle skills course, which includes 10 hours of riding, it will take longer. After holding your permit for six months, you can take the written test. Once you pass both the written and skills tests, your license will arrive in 6-8 weeks.
Steps to Get a Motorcycle Permit in Utah
To acquire a Utah motorcycle permit, you must take the following steps.
Step 1: Meet Age and Document Requirements
To obtain a motorcycle permit in Utah, you must be at least 16 years old. For those aged 16-18, you must hold the learner permit for two months before applying for a full license. Make sure to gather the required documents, including proof of identity (like a birth certificate or passport), Social Security number, and two documents proving Utah residency, such as utility bills or bank statements.
Step 2: Apply for a Learner Permit
The next step is to fill out an online application and schedule an appointment at a Driver License Division (DLD) office. During your visit, you will check in with your confirmation number, take a photo, present your documents, undergo a vision test, and pay an $18 non-refundable fee. After these steps, you will take a 25-question written knowledge test based on the Utah Motorcycle Operator Manual.
Step 3: Pass the Written Knowledge Test
The written knowledge test covers essential topics about motorcycle operation and road safety. Study the Motorcycle Operator Manual thoroughly to prepare. If you pass the test, the state will give you a motorcycle learner permit, which allows you to practice riding. The permit is valid for six months and comes with certain restrictions, such as no passengers for the first two months, no riding after dark, and mandatory use of a helmet and eye protection.
How to Get Your Motorcycle Endorsement
Now that you have your learner’s permit, you can take the following steps to get your full motorcycle endorsement for your driver’s license:
Step 1: Practice Riding Your Bike
With your learner permit, you can practice riding your motorcycle. This is a crucial step to gain hands-on experience and improve your riding skills. Make sure to adhere to the permit restrictions during this period.
Step 2: Complete a Motorcycle Safety Course (Optional)
Completing a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Basic Rider Course (BRC) is highly recommended, although not mandatory. This course provides valuable training, and successfully completing it can result in a waiver of the skills test requirement at a DLD office.
Step 3: Schedule and Pass the Skills Test
If you do not take an MSF course, you must pass a motorcycle driving skills test. Schedule this test with the DLD. Bring your learner permit, proof of insurance, and registration for your motorcycle. The skills test includes various maneuvers to assess your ability to handle a motorcycle safely.
Step 4: Obtain Your Motorcycle Endorsement
After passing the skills test or completing the MSF course, return to the DLD to apply for your motorcycle endorsement. Pay the $18 endorsement fee to receive your updated driver’s license with the motorcycle endorsement added. This endorsement is valid for eight years.
Law Tigers: Your Utah Motorcycle Lawyers
At Law Tigers, we’re not just lawyers—we’re riders too, and we understand the unique challenges that motorcyclists face on Utah roads. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, our dedicated Utah motorcycle lawyers are here to help.
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