Buy a motorcycle license

What are the steps to obtaining a motorcycle license?

To obtain a motorcycle license, you must take a written exam, practice riding a motorcycle, and take a road driving test.

Step 1: Pass a written test

Before you can actually get on a motorcycle, you must pass a written test and obtain a motorcycle learner's permit in most states. The written test includes questions on basic motorcycle terminology, techniques, and laws. Depending on where you live, you can choose to take the test online or at the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Before taking your test, read the resources provided by your state DMV. These materials contain all the information you need to pass your exam.

Topics of the written motorcycle tests

Basic motorcycle techniques
The rules of the road
Motorcycle terminology
Best practices for security
State laws

Step 2: Practice in practice

Once you have your license, you will need to practice riding a motorcycle. Some states require you to log a certain number of supervised training hours, especially for new riders under 18.

Of course, a motorcycle doesn't allow someone to supervise you from the passenger seat. Instead, many states require that you be supervised by another motorcyclist within a certain distance while you learn to ride. You will also typically have restrictions on when and how you can ride your motorcycle.

General requirements and restrictions for driving with a motorcycle license

Limited usage times (e.g., daylight only)
No passengers
Must be supervised by a licensed motorcyclist (within a quarter mile).
0% BAC value

These requirements can vary by state, so check with your DMV to confirm the rules for practicing your skills. You'll also need motorcycle insurance for your bike if your state requires it—and almost every state does.

Step 3: Take the aptitude test

The final part of the motorcycle license is a road driving test. A motorcycle examiner cannot supervise you from the passenger seat, so the format is different from the test to obtain a regular driver’s license.

First, the examiner will observe your maneuverability on a closed course or other isolated area. You may be required to demonstrate your ability to accelerate, brake, and make safe, controlled turns. For example, here are the maneuvers required in Ohio:

Ohio Motorcycle Skill Test Maneuver

Conical binding, normal stop
Turn, U-turn
Brief stop
Obstacle avoidance

Depending on your state and whether you already have a driver's license, you may also be required to demonstrate actual driving skills. If so, you'll go out on the road to show that you can interact with other vehicles and will receive regular instructions from the examiner. You'll typically need to provide the examiner with a support vehicle and driver so they can ride along during the test if any part of it requires on-road driving.

When taking your driving test, you should carefully check what you need to bring with you. If you're missing any of the required items, you may automatically fail and have to reschedule. For example, here's what you need to bring in New York:

What you need to bring for a motorcycle road test in New York State

Your learner's permit with photo
Glasses or contact lenses if your authorization indicates that you require corrective lenses.
Your original pre-licensing course certificate (MV-278) or student completion certificate (MV-285)
A properly functioning, registered and inspected motorcycle
A driver aged 21 or older with a valid driver's license for the test vehicle
A properly functioning, registered and inspected motor vehicle and a driver with a valid driving licence to transport the driving examiner during your driving test.
If you are under 18 years old, you will need a supervised driving certificate (MV-262) completed by your parents or guardians.

DO YOU WANT TO BUY A REAL DRIVER'S LICENSE ONLINE?

It's time to contact us and place your order.