DMV Information
Summary: Information and links to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
DMV Information
What to bring with you to get your motorcycle permit
Depending on what state you live in, the rules and information are sometimes slightly different for what you need to bring. Many states now require six points of identification, which could include digital drivers license, original birth certificate, passport, marriage license, work or federal photo id, bank statement, etc.
When you arrive at the DMV, tell them that you want to fill out the form to get your motorcycle permit. They will provide a card for you to fill out, and they will provide a copy of your state's motorcycle manual that you should become very familiar with.
Once you've studied, you can go to the DMV and take the eye test and the computerized or written test. The eye test is simply having you look at a screen and differentiate colors (makes sense for traffic signals and lights). Once you pass this, you will be taken to a spot for you to sit for the written test. The written test is typically a computer program that will ask you several questions regarding the information you learned in the motorcycle manual as well as the auto drivers manual. Questions such as street signs, right of way, alcohol impairment, etc. will be on the test.
After completing the exams successfully, the DMV will issue you a valid motorcycle permit for you to use for practice. Many, if not all, states will require you to ride along side of a licensed/endorsed motorcyclist when you have only your permit. Most states require you to have your permit for a minimum of 20 days before you can attempt the road test to get your endorsement.
The Road Test at the DMV
Once you're comfortable riding your motorcycle, go ahead and schedule your road test with the DMV. At this time, you may also want to consider whether you plan on taking the road test with your motorcycle, a friends motorcycle, or if you'd rather rent one or even rent a scooter.
The DMV road test will comprise of a set of specific challenges for you to perform on your motorcycle in a confined and controlled space. These challenges are typically left and right hand turns, come to a stop with your front wheel in a painted box, cone weave, u-turn, emergency stop, and an obstacle avoidance with an emergency stop.
After you've completed the test and passed, your permit will be signed and authorized by the DMV observer, and you can go back to the DMV offices. To get your endorsement on your license, you will once again need to take all of the personal information (as above) to the DMV, fill out the card for the change in adding the endorsement, pay the fee, and you'll be on your way.
Once you have your license, you can now officially call yourself a biker!! Good Luck, ride safe, and enjoy the ride!
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