Can You Take Alabama’s Motorcycle Test Online?

In order to get your motorcycle license in Alabama, you must pass a written skills test and pass an on-road skills test. Unfortunately, you cannot take the written skills test online; instead, you must take one at an official Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Driver License Office. Although you can submit license documents online and pre-apply, any actual license testing must take place at a physical ALEA location.

Alabama Motorcycle License Requirements

In order to get a Class M endorsement in Alabama, you must be at least 16 years of age and:

• Pass a written skills test OR
• Complete a certified safety course (more on this later)

Once you meet the above requirements, you will receive a Class M endorsement on your existing driver’s license or receive a separate motorcycle license if you do not have an existing driver’s license. Applicants under the age of 17 must also get parental consent before they can receive their Class M endorsement.

What Does the Written Test Cover?

The written portion of the motorcycle license test contains 30 multiple-choice questions that cover various facets of basic motorcycle operation based on information from the Alabama Motorcycle Operator Manual. Applicants need to answer at least 24 questions correctly to pass with an 80 percent score.

Although you cannot take the actual written knowledge test online, you can find practice tests from numerous websites that have sample questions similar to the ones on the real thing.

What Does the Motorcycle Skills Test Cover?

The on-road skills tests gauge an applicant’s ability to correctly operate a motorcycle in a controlled street environment. The test focuses on basic operational skills, such as turning, braking, signaling, accelerating, and staying within road lanes. According to participants, the on-road skills portion of the license test takes about 30 to 45 minutes.

Can I Waive Any Test Requirements?

Yes, you actually can waive the on-road skills portion of the license exam by completing an approved motorcycle safety course. Once you complete the safety course, you will receive a certificate of completion that you can present at the ALEA office to waive the practical skills exam requirements. Aside from the on-road test waiver, completing a basic rider safety course can give you the knowledge you need to pass the written portion of the exam.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Motorcycle License in Alabama?

It costs $5 to take the written tests, and the ALEA office charges a one-time $31.25 fee for a license endorsement and a one-time $36.25 fee for a separate motorcycle license. The cost of a duplicate motorcycle license is $31.25.

What Happens If I Ride a Motorcycle Without a License in Alabama?

According to ALC 32-6-18, riding a motor vehicle without the appropriate license is a misdemeanor crime that can carry a set penalty of $50 and a variable fine between $10 and $100, depending on the judge’s discretion. It used to be legal to operate a motorcycle in Alabama with just a regular driver’s license, but the law changed in 2016, requiring riders to obtain a separate Class M endorsement.

Do You Have to Wear a Helmet on a Motorcycle in Alabama?

Alabama is one of 17 states with universal helmet laws and requires all motorcycle riders to wear head protection, regardless of age or experience level (ALC 32-5A-245). The sole exception to these helmet rules is if the rider is in an enclosed cab on the motorcycle. Interestingly, Alabama is also the only state that requires motorcycle riders to wear shoes.