How To Get A Motorcycle License? What You Need to Know

So you dream of two wheels and the open road, but you’ve yet to take that step?

First off, congratulations. One of the most thrilling and rewarding pastimes in existence awaits, complete with a huge community of like-minded individuals with whom you can share that passion.

Of course, before you can be properly welcomed into the legions of riders already initiated into the motorcycling lifestyle, you’re going to need to get yourself a motorcycle license.

So exactly what do you need to do to get one?

Well, it’s not really that complicated for any given individual, but it is rather complex to explain when attempting to sum it up for everyone. Each state has its own rules and regulations, so you’re going to have to do a bit of your own homework to figure out exactly what you’ll need.

But read on for a general overview that will provide you a better idea of the various factors that will come into play in determining your next steps.

How Old Are You?

Most states will require you to be 16, although several require you to be a year or two older than that, while others will allow you to get a permit as young as 14.

In some states, parental consent is needed if you’re under 18.

How Big is Your Motorcycle?

Scooters 50cc and under are usually treated differently and more leniently in terms of licensing and age restrictions. Some states even have different rules for bikes up to 250cc.

How Many Steps Will It Take?

Some states will require you to obtain a learner’s permit, which allows you to ride under more restricted conditions, before you can later graduate to a full motorcycle license.

This can be based on age and/or experience.

Have You Taken a Motorcycle Safety Course?

Most states will require you to first take and pass a motorcycle safety course. In some cases this is based on age with the ability to forgo it at a certain point – although it’s generally always recommended. 

Are You Ready to be Tested?

As many as three tests may be required before you obtain your license, depending on the state.

Some states have separate tests to ascertain your knowledge of motorcycling specifically and the rules of the road more generally.

There is also a skills test that will determine whether or not you have the necessary tools to ride safely by having you demonstrate your ability on a motorcycle in a more practical setting. At least as practical as weaving around cones in an empty parking lot can be. But you’ll likely have to show that you can at least handle a bike at a slow speed.

Note that the skills test may not apply if you’ve previously taken and passed the required motorcycle safety course.

Can You See?

You can expect that you’ll need to pass a vision test before you can be issued a motorcycle license.

Do You Have Your Documentation?

You’re going to be asked to prove who you are and where you reside. At minimum, you’ll need some form of identification such as a driver’s license, passport, or birth certificate.

Did You Bring Your Wallet?

You can also expect there will be some fees associated with getting and maintaining a motorcycle license.

Now What?

Visit the website of your home state’s DMV (or the equivalent) to determine the precise requirements in your individual case.

No matter the state, none of the requirements are overly burdensome, and it’s well worth it to ensure motorcyclists have the requisite knowledge and skillset to ride safely.

So now do your homework so you can come out and play with the rest of us.