The thrill of riding a motorcycle in Iowa begins with obtaining your Iowa motorcycle license. We have all the information you need to help you get your Iowa motorcycle license, from your application to learner’s permits and passing the required tests. Prepare for the journey ahead, and enjoy the freedom of riding in the Hawkeye State.
Different Types of Iowa Motorcycle Licenses
Iowa has specific categories of motorcycle licenses and endorsements designed to suit different rider needs:
Iowa Motorcycle Permit
- This permit allows new riders to practice riding under a licensed motorcyclist’s supervision. The supervising rider must remain within sight and hearing distance and be on or in another vehicle. This permit is valid for four years.
Class M Motorcycle License
- This license allows the holder to operate a motorcycle on public roads. Riders must pass a motorcycle knowledge test, an operator knowledge test, and a driving test.
Motorcycle Endorsement
- Individuals with a valid Iowa driver’s license can add a motorcycle endorsement (Class M) to their existing license. This endorsement requires the same tests and requirements as the Class M Motorcycle License.
Steps to Get Your Iowa Motorcycle License
Ready to get your Iowa motorcycle license? Here are the steps you’ll need to take.
Obtain a Motorcycle Permit
- Age Requirement – You must be at least 14 years old.
- Tests – You must pass a vision screening and a 25-question written knowledge test based on the Iowa Motorcycle Operator Manual.
- Fees – If you have a valid Iowa driver’s license, the fee for a permit is $2 per year, and the permit lasts for as long as your current license. If you do not have a current driver’s license, the fee is $14. Permits last four years.
Complete a Rider Education Course (Optional but Recommended for those over 18 years of age)
- Course – Enroll in and complete an Iowa-approved motorcycle rider education course. This course includes classroom instruction and practical riding experience and allows applicants to waive the skills test requirement.
- Certificate – Obtain a completion certificate, which is valid for up to six months.
Practice Riding
- Permit Restrictions – Practice riding under the supervision of a licensed motorcyclist, adhering to permit restrictions such as no passengers and no nighttime riding.
Schedule and Pass the Iowa Motorcycle Riding Test
- Skills Test – Schedule and take the motorcycle skills test unless you have a completion certificate from an approved rider education course.
- Documents – Bring your instruction permit, proof of identity, and completion certificate (if applicable) to your local DMV.
Apply for Your Motorcycle License or Endorsement
- Application – Apply for your Class M Motorcycle License or add the motorcycle endorsement to your existing driver’s license.
- Fees – Pay the required fee of $6 per year for a motorcycle-only license or $2 per year for adding a motorcycle endorsement to an existing driver’s license.
Ready to Hit the Road?
The license is yours once you pass all the required tests and submit the necessary documentation. Don’t put off the thrill of the ride—start your license or endorsement application today.
Law Tigers Always Have Your Back
At Law Tigers, we’re riders just like you. This allows us to provide the best legal representation and resources with a biker-friendly perspective. With our team on your side, you can go on adventures anywhere in the country and know that we’ll be there in case something unfortunate does happen.
Sign up for our free Rider Benefit Kit today so you can be part of The Law Tigers Team. That way, you’ll never ride alone.
