Getting Your Minnesota Motorcycle Permit

Getting your Minnesota motorcycle permit, also known as a motorcycle instruction permit, is the first step to acquiring your full motorcycle license endorsement. Every rider in the state must have a valid driver’s license and motorcycle instruction permit or license endorsement.

Let’s explore what you can expect from the permit process, including what tests you’ll need to pass and how you can stay safe while learning how to ride.

The Process of Obtaining a Motorcycle Instruction Permit in Minnesota

Before applying for a motorcycle instruction permit, you must have a valid driver’s license. If you have a driver’s license, the next step is to pass a written knowledge test at a driver examination station.

If you’re under 18, you must pass the written knowledge test and have a certificate or completion of a state-approved motorcycle rider training course.

Finally, you must pay a $29 fee for your motorcycle permit and endorsement. This permit is valid for one year and allows you to practice your motorcycle riding skills on public roads. If your permit expires before you obtain your full motorcycle license endorsement, you must retake the written test and pay for a new permit.

Restrictions on Minnesota Motorcycle Permit Holders

Motorcycle permit holders in Minnesota must adhere to certain restrictions until they receive their full license endorsement:

• Riders must wear helmets approved by the federal Department of Transportation (DOT). The DOT has a helpful website for choosing the right motorcycle helmet and avoiding unsafe helmets.
• Riders cannot carry passengers with an instruction permit.
• Riders cannot ride at night with an instruction permit, which means between half an hour after sunset and half an hour before sunrise.

Motorcycle Registration and Permit Fees

You must register your motorcycle with the state, pay the registration tax, and have a valid license plate. If you’re a new Minnesota resident, you have 60 days to complete the motorcycle registration.

If your permit expires or you need a replacement, you must pay additional fees. These fees can be found on Minnesota’s Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) website.

Getting Your Minnesota Motorcycle License Endorsement

Instruction permit holders over 18 can receive their full motorcycle license endorsement by passing the riding skills test or completing a Minnesota Motorcycle Safety Center Basic Rider Course. You can complete the Basic Rider Course with an expired instruction permit as long as it has been expired for less than one year.

Riders who are under 18 can receive their license endorsement by completing the Basic Rider Course, passing a written knowledge test, and passing a riding skills test.

The final step is to pay the duplicate license fee and receive your motorcycle license endorsement.

Ready to Ride in Minnesota? Law Tigers Has Your Back!

Whether you’re just getting your Minnesota motorcycle permit or have been riding for years, accidents can happen. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, trust Law Tigers, the motorcycle accident lawyers who ride. We’re here to protect you and your bike, ensuring you get the support and compensation you deserve.

Call Law Tigers Minnesota today at 1-800-LAWTIGERS, or visit us online to schedule a free consultation. Ride safe, and remember—we’ve got your back on and off the road!