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How To Acquire Your Motorcycle License

Sep. 17 2020 Ownership Tips By Biggs Harley-Davidson®

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Are you a pedestrian, bicyclist or car driver who’s looking to expand your horizons? Maybe motorcycle riding is the thrill you’re seeking. If you can picture yourself riding along the California coastline without a care in the world, then maybe it’s time you explored everything that motorcycling has to offer.

Riding a motorcycle is cost-effective, fun and allows you a great deal of freedom. However, in order to legally operate a motorcycle, you’re going to need to acquire your motorcycle license first. Biggs Harley-Davidson in San Marcos is proud to be your southern California motorcycle dealer. Here are the steps you need to take in order to get your motorcycle license.

Take a Training Course

Most states require you to take some form of training before you hop on a bike. Even if your state doesn’t, though, it’s really a good idea. Just as you learned how to drive a car, you can learn how to ride a motorcycle with care by taking a course from professional trainers. You’ll learn about local laws that apply to you, and you’ll also learn how each part of a motorcycle functions.

Obtain Your Permit

Before you get your license, you’re going to need a permit. The age at which you may apply for a permit varies by state, with some states allowing riders as young as 14 to acquire a permit. Many states require you to be at least 18 before you are allowed to get a full motorcycle license. Be aware that your permit may have an expiration date that is much sooner than a typical license is good for. 

Get In Some Practice

Everyone practices with their parents or another adult who’s a licensed driver when they’re learning to drive a car. You can’t expect to get behind the wheel for your driving exam without ever having turned on the ignition. The same applies to motorcycles: get in some practice when you’ve acquired your motorcycle permit. 

Your permit will likely have limits on when and how you can ride. For example, you may not be allowed to ride your motorcycle before sunrise or after sunset while you hold a permit, you may be prohibited from riding on the freeway and you probably won’t be able to have a passenger on your bike, either (which definitely isn’t safe anyway, at least until you’re a more experienced rider).

Apply For Your License

Once you’ve taken your courses and trained up enough, you should be able to apply for the motorcycle license itself. You will likely need to take several tests and pay a fee, so be sure to study the laws in your area. Tests may include a vision test, a written exam and a riding test.

State-Specific Tips

Every state has different rules when it comes to what you must do in order to legally ride a motorcycle. Here in California, you’re required to get a motorcycle permit for any type of motor-based cycle. A Class C license will allow you to operate a three-wheeled vehicle like a trike. 

To operate any motorcycle on two wheels, you’ll need what’s called a Class M1 license, also called a motorcycle endorsement. Riders who are under 21 will have to earn a permit first, take a motorcycle safety training program and then gain a driver’s license. If you’re over 21, you’ll need to complete these steps:

  • Complete a California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP) or pass a motorcycle driving test at your local DMV.

  • Present your California driver’s license or your state-issued ID.

  • Complete a DL 44 form and pay the requisite $36 fee (which may increase depending on the year).

  • Pass a vision test as well as a written exam.

  • Provide your thumbprint and have your photo taken for your permit.

We hope this guide helps you to obtain your motorcycle license with as little fuss as possible! Shopping for your first bike? Browse our website to check out the great stock of new and used motorcycles at our dealership in San Marcos, CA. Biggs Harley-Davidson proudly serves all of our southern California customers in and around San Diego and Oceanside.