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How To Get A California Motorcycle License

Oct. 27 2020 Travel Guide By Biggs Harley-Davidson®

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Before you can hit the open road on your motorcycle, you will need a California license. The process of obtaining a license is not difficult, but it can be hard keeping all of the steps straight. That’s why we created the following beginner’s guide to getting a California motorcycle license. 

If you have any questions or want to shop motorcycles for sale, chat with the experts at Biggs Harley-Davidson. Our dealership is based in San Marcos, California, and we proudly serve those in San Diego and Oceanside as well.

Pick A Motorcycle License

There are two California motorcycle license classes:

  • Class M2 only allows the operation of a motorized bicycle, moped, or bicycle with an attached motor.
  • Class M1 allows operation of all vehicles that fall into the Class M2 category as well as operation of any two-wheeled motorcycle and all vehicles that fall into the Class M2 category.

Consider which license class matches your vehicle type, then pursue accordingly.

Gain The Motorcycle Riding Skills

The first step is to learn how to safely ride a motorcycle. 

For many riders, the best approach is completing a California Highway Patrol approved California Motorcycle Safety Program training course. This will cover the basics and prepare you for a lifetime of safe motorcycle riding. You will need to provide a Certificate of Completion of Motorcycle Training (DL389) to the DMV, which allows you to skip the driving test.

If you don’t take the training course, then you will need to pass a motorcycle driving test at a DMV office. Be sure to practice the techniques until you are confident about your abilities.

Review For The Knowledge Test

You will need to pass the knowledge test. Like any other test, you’ll do better if you study. The motorcycle handbook is available online and covers what you will need to know. All the questions on the test come directly from this handbook.

It’s also wise to take a sample test. It’ll help you gauge whether you are ready or whether you need to study a bit more. Sample tests can be found online at the DMV website.

Visit The DMV

Start with a driver license or identification card application. Once the day arrives to visit the DMV, you will need to bring:

  • Your social security number
  • Verification of identity with an acceptable identity document
  • Either a California DL/ID card or acceptable residency documents
  • Payment for the non-refundable application fee, which is valid for 12 months

At the DMV, you will need to:

  • Pass a vision exam
  • Get your fingerprints scanned
  • Get your photo taken
  • Pass the knowledge test within three attempts

Taking The Motorcycle Driving Test

For those that need to take the motorcycle driving test, it’s important to note that his test is by appointment only. It’s wise to make the appointment with the DMV sooner rather than later. Spots can fill up surprisingly quickly!

You will also need to provide proof of financial responsibility that meets California Insurance Requirements.

The test itself will cover a variety of topics such as a pre-trip inspection, slow riding, gear shifting, and going in different track paths. Riders get three attempts to pass.

A Quick Note About Age

All the above information applies to motorcycle riders that are 21 years of age or older. If you are under 21 years of age or are assisting someone younger than 21 years old, there are a few additional requirements.

These riders will need a motorcycle instruction permit for at least six months. They will then need to submit proof of driver education and training (if they don’t have a valid California DL). If they want to skip the skills test, they can provide a Certificate of Completion of Motorcycle Training (DL389). But they may still need to perform an observation test.

We hope you found this guide to getting a California motorcycle license helpful! For more tips or to shop motorcycles for sale, head over to Biggs Harley-Davidson. Our friendly staff is happy to chat with you and assist with anything you need, from suggesting models that fit your budget to replacing a broken motorcycle part. Our dealership is located in San Marcos, California. We also proudly serve those in San Diego and Oceanside, California.