Motorcycle by state
Motorcycle License Requirements by State (2026)
Last UpdatedAugust 20, 2026State source links, motorcycle permit planning notes, and table structure were reviewed for this launch.
While the motorcycle written test covers the same core topics in every state, each state sets its own rules for minimum age, permit holding periods, safety course requirements, helmet laws, and fees. Use the table below to find your state’s requirements or click your state for a full motorcycle guide.
50-state table
Compare motorcycle permit and license rules
Important: fees, question counts, testing vendors, course rules, and helmet-law exceptions can change. We filled stable public figures for major states where official sources clearly publish them. If a state source does not publish a stable number on its public motorcycle page, this table points you to the official source instead of guessing.
| State | Min Age for Permit | Written Test Questions | Passing Score | MSF Course Required? | Helmet Law | Permit Fee | License/Endorsement Fee | State Page |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AlabamaOfficial source | 14+ restricted motorcycle class path | State motorcycle knowledge test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm in the state testing system | Course encouraged; check the course rule for your age/path | Universal helmet law | See ALEA fee source | See ALEA fee source | Open guide |
| AlaskaOfficial source | 14+ motorcycle instruction permit path | State motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm in the state testing system | Course optional/waiver rules vary | Under 18 generally helmet required; confirm | See Alaska DMV fee source | See Alaska DMV fee source | Open guide |
| ArizonaOfficial source | 15 years 6 months+ permit path | State motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm in the state testing system | Course may support waiver; confirm | Under 18 helmet rule; confirm | See AZ MVD fee source | See AZ MVD fee source | Open guide |
| ArkansasOfficial source | 16+ motorcycle license path | State motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm in the state testing system | confirm course/skills-test rules | Under 21 helmet rule; confirm | See DFA fee source | See DFA fee source | Open guide |
| CaliforniaOfficial source | 15 years 6 months+ permit path | 30-question motorcycle knowledge test | 80% passing score | CMSP training required under 21; waiver/path varies for 21+ | Universal helmet law | Class M1/M2 application/addition: $59 | Class M1/M2 application/addition: $59 | Open guide |
| ColoradoOfficial source | 16+ motorcycle endorsement path | State motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm in the state testing system | MOST course can affect skills-test path; confirm | Under 18 helmet rule; confirm | See Colorado DMV fee source | See Colorado DMV fee source | Open guide |
| ConnecticutOfficial source | 16+ motorcycle learner path | State motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm in the state testing system | Approved rider course may be required/used; confirm | Under 18 helmet rule; confirm | See CT DMV fee source | See CT DMV fee source | Open guide |
| DelawareOfficial source | 17+ motorcycle endorsement path | State motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm in the state testing system | Course/skills waiver rules vary; confirm | Under 19 helmet rule; confirm | See Delaware DMV fee source | See Delaware DMV fee source | Open guide |
| FloridaOfficial source | 16+ motorcycle endorsement path | 25-question BRC/provider knowledge check; confirm course format | 80% planning target; confirm with the course provider | Basic RiderCourse required for endorsement path | Under 21 helmet rule; insurance exception rules apply; confirm | No separate DMV permit path; BRC provider fee varies | $7 motorcycle endorsement + license/tax collector fees | Open guide |
| GeorgiaOfficial source | 16+ Class MP permit; 17+ Class M license | DDS motorcycle knowledge exam; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm DDS system | Approved course may waive test path; confirm | Universal helmet law | $10 Class MP permit | confirm Class M license term fee with DDS | Open guide |
| HawaiiOfficial source | 16+ motorcycle path; county licensing process varies | State/county motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm with the county testing system | Course strongly encouraged; check county rules | Under 18 helmet rule; confirm | See Hawaii fee source | See Hawaii fee source | Open guide |
| IdahoOfficial source | 15+ motorcycle instruction permit path | State motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm in the state testing system | STAR course may support skills waiver; confirm | Under 18 helmet rule; confirm | See ITD fee source | See ITD fee source | Open guide |
| IllinoisOfficial source | 16-17 with driver education path; 18+ adult instruction permit path | Separate motorcycle written exam; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm SOS system | Cycle Rider Safety Training optional/waiver rules; confirm | No universal helmet law; eye protection rules may apply; confirm | Instruction permit/license fees vary by age | $5 motorcycle classification fee plus regular license fee | Open guide |
| IndianaOfficial source | 16 years 90 days+ motorcycle endorsement path | Motorcycle knowledge exam; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm BMV system | Ride Safe Indiana course may waive skills exam; confirm | Under 18 helmet rule; confirm | See BMV fee source | See BMV fee source | Open guide |
| IowaOfficial source | 14+ motorcycle instruction permit path | Motorcycle knowledge test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm DOT system | Course/skills rules vary by age; confirm | No universal helmet law; confirm | See Iowa DOT fee source | See Iowa DOT fee source | Open guide |
| KansasOfficial source | 14+ motorcycle instruction permit path | State motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm DOR system | Course may support skills waiver; confirm | Under 18 helmet rule; confirm | See Kansas DOR fee source | See Kansas DOR fee source | Open guide |
| KentuckyOfficial source | 16+ motorcycle permit path | Motorcycle knowledge test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm KYTC system | Motorcycle safety course may waive skills test; confirm | Under 21/permit/new license rules; confirm | See KYTC fee source | See KYTC fee source | Open guide |
| LouisianaOfficial source | 15+ motorcycle endorsement path | State motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm OMV system | Course/skills-test rules vary; confirm | Universal helmet law | See OMV fee source | See OMV fee source | Open guide |
| MaineOfficial source | 16+ motorcycle permit path | State motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm BMV system | Course required for some applicants/paths; confirm | Under 18/permit/new license rules; confirm | See BMV fee source | See BMV fee source | Open guide |
| MarylandOfficial source | 15 years 9 months+ learner path | Motorcycle knowledge test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm MVA system | Approved course may be required/waive testing; confirm | Universal helmet law | See MVA fee source | See MVA fee source | Open guide |
| MassachusettsOfficial source | 16+ motorcycle learner permit path | Motorcycle learner permit test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm RMV system | Course optional/insurance or waiver value; confirm | Universal helmet law | See RMV fee source | See RMV fee source | Open guide |
| MichiganOfficial source | 16+ CY endorsement path | Motorcycle knowledge test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm SOS system | Rider course may be required for under 18/waiver paths; confirm | Partial helmet law; check age and insurance conditions | First-time CY or permit: $16 | Motorcycle endorsement: $16 plus license transaction fees | Open guide |
| MinnesotaOfficial source | 16+ motorcycle permit path | Motorcycle knowledge test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm DVS system | Course required for under 18 skills-test waiver/path; confirm | Under 18/permit holder helmet rule; confirm | confirm with DVS | confirm with DVS | Open guide |
| MississippiOfficial source | 17+ regular motorcycle path | State motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm DPS system | Course/skills rules vary; confirm | Universal helmet law | See DPS fee source | See DPS fee source | Open guide |
| MissouriOfficial source | 15 years 6 months+ motorcycle permit path | Motorcycle knowledge test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm DOR system | Course/skills waiver rules vary; confirm | Partial helmet law; check age and insurance conditions | See DOR fee source | See DOR fee source | Open guide |
| MontanaOfficial source | 15+ motorcycle endorsement path | State motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm MVD system | Course may waive skills test; confirm | Under 18 helmet rule; confirm | See MVD fee source | See MVD fee source | Open guide |
| NebraskaOfficial source | 17+ motorcycle operator path | State motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm DMV system | Course/skills-test rules vary; confirm | Universal helmet law | See DMV fee source | See DMV fee source | Open guide |
| NevadaOfficial source | 16+ motorcycle instruction permit path | State motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm DMV system | Course may waive skills test; confirm | Universal helmet law | See Nevada DMV fee source | See Nevada DMV fee source | Open guide |
| New HampshireOfficial source | 16+ motorcycle learner/endorsement path | State motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm DMV system | Course/skills waiver rules vary; confirm | Under 18 helmet rule; confirm | See NH DMV fee source | See NH DMV fee source | Open guide |
| New JerseyOfficial source | 17+ unrestricted motorcycle path | State motorcycle knowledge test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm MVC system | BRC may waive road test; confirm | Universal helmet law | See MVC fee source | See MVC fee source | Open guide |
| New MexicoOfficial source | 13+ restricted motorcycle path; road privileges depend on class | State motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm MVD system | Course/skills waiver rules vary; confirm | Under 18 helmet rule; confirm | See MVD fee source | See MVD fee source | Open guide |
| New YorkOfficial source | 16+ motorcycle permit path | 20-question Class M/MJ permit test | 14 correct out of 20, including road sign rule | Course may waive road test; confirm | Universal helmet law | Class M/MJ fee varies by age/license type | Class M/MJ or add-on fee range: $21-$120 | Open guide |
| North CarolinaOfficial source | 16+ motorcycle learner permit path | Motorcycle knowledge test plus traffic sign/vision requirements; confirm count | 80% planning target; confirm NCDMV system | Course/skills waiver rules vary; confirm | Universal helmet law | confirm current learner permit fee with NCDMV schedule | confirm endorsement/license fee with NCDMV schedule | Open guide |
| North DakotaOfficial source | 14+ motorcycle permit/license path | State motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm NDDOT system | Course/skills-test rules vary; confirm | Under 18 helmet rule; confirm | See NDDOT fee source | See NDDOT fee source | Open guide |
| OhioOfficial source | 15 years 6 months+ motorcycle TIPIC path | Motorcycle or motor scooter knowledge test; check current count in the official source | 75%+ Ohio knowledge-test baseline; confirm motorcycle test rule | Basic Rider Skills may waive skills test; confirm | Under 18/novice helmet rule; confirm | TIPIC/license fees vary by age and term | Motorcycle-only license: $27.50-$54.00 | Open guide |
| OklahomaOfficial source | 14+ motorcycle-only restricted path | State motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm Service Oklahoma | Course may waive skills test; confirm | Under 18 helmet rule; confirm | See Service Oklahoma fee source | See Service Oklahoma fee source | Open guide |
| OregonOfficial source | 16+ motorcycle endorsement path | State motorcycle test/course path; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm DMV/TEAM Oregon | TEAM Oregon training requirement/path; confirm | Universal helmet law | See Oregon DMV fee source | See Oregon DMV fee source | Open guide |
| PennsylvaniaOfficial source | 16+ motorcycle permit path | 18-question motorcycle knowledge test | 15 correct out of 18 | Free PAMSP course may waive skills test; confirm | Partial helmet law; check age and experience conditions | $12 motorcycle permit | Initial motorcycle permit + 4-year license: $57.50 | Open guide |
| Rhode IslandOfficial source | 16+ motorcycle permit path | State motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm DMV system | Motorcycle safety course required for permit path; confirm | Under 21/permit holder helmet rule; confirm | See RI DMV fee source | See RI DMV fee source | Open guide |
| South CarolinaOfficial source | 15+ motorcycle beginner permit path | State motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm SCDMV system | Course/skills waiver rules vary; confirm | Under 21 helmet rule; confirm | See SCDMV fee source | See SCDMV fee source | Open guide |
| South DakotaOfficial source | 14+ motorcycle instruction permit path | State motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm DPS system | Course/skills waiver rules vary; confirm | Under 18 helmet rule; confirm | See DPS fee source | See DPS fee source | Open guide |
| TennesseeOfficial source | 15+ motorcycle learner permit path | State motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm Driver Services | Course may waive skills test; confirm | Universal helmet law | See Driver Services fee source | See Driver Services fee source | Open guide |
| TexasOfficial source | 15+ restricted Class M path; 16+ standard path with course | 25-question motorcycle knowledge/course path | 80% planning target; confirm DPS/course provider | Approved motorcycle safety course required for most applicants | Under 21 helmet rule; adult exemption conditions; confirm | Class M only new license: $33; add Class M fees may apply | Class M only new: $33; renewal: $44; add-on fees may apply | Open guide |
| UtahOfficial source | 16+ motorcycle endorsement path | State motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm DLD system | Course may waive skills test; confirm | Under 21 helmet rule; confirm | See DLD fee source | See DLD fee source | Open guide |
| VermontOfficial source | 16+ motorcycle learner permit path | State motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm DMV system | Course/skills waiver rules vary; confirm | Universal helmet law | See Vermont DMV fee source | See Vermont DMV fee source | Open guide |
| VirginiaOfficial source | 15 years 6 months+ motorcycle learner path | Motorcycle knowledge test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm DMV system | Virginia Rider Training Program may waive skills test; confirm | Universal helmet law | See DMV fee source | See DMV fee source | Open guide |
| WashingtonOfficial source | 16+ motorcycle permit/endorsement path | State knowledge test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm DOL/approved school | Training/testing through approved schools; confirm | Universal helmet law | See DOL fee source | See DOL fee source | Open guide |
| West VirginiaOfficial source | 16+ motorcycle instruction permit path | State motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm DMV system | Course may waive skills test; confirm | Universal helmet law | See DMV fee source | See DMV fee source | Open guide |
| WisconsinOfficial source | 16+ motorcycle instruction permit path | State motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm WisDOT system | Rider course may waive skills test; confirm | Under 18/permit holder helmet rule; confirm | See WisDOT fee source | See WisDOT fee source | Open guide |
| WyomingOfficial source | 16+ motorcycle instruction permit path | State motorcycle test; check current count in the official source | 80% planning target; confirm WYDOT system | Course/skills waiver rules vary; confirm | Under 18 helmet rule; confirm | See WYDOT fee source | See WYDOT fee source | Open guide |
Each row includes an official source link. Use the internal state guide for planning, then confirm final requirements with the linked state agency before applying or riding.
How to use it
Use the table as a planning checklist
- Start with your state row and open the official source link.
- Check whether your state uses a motorcycle learner permit, endorsement, motorcycle-only license, or rider course path.
- Confirm age, helmet rules, testing steps, course waiver rules, and fees before making an appointment.
- Then use the motorcycle permit practice test to study written-test topics.
Also in motorcycle prep
Next motorcycle study links
FAQ
Motorcycle license requirements by state
Do I need a motorcycle license if I already have a regular driver’s license?
Usually yes. A regular driver license normally does not allow you to operate a motorcycle unless your state adds a motorcycle endorsement, motorcycle class, or motorcycle-only license after you meet its motorcycle testing or course rules.
Can I ride a motorcycle with just a learner permit?
A motorcycle learner permit usually allows restricted practice, not unrestricted riding. Restrictions can include no passengers, no night riding, no freeway riding, helmet use, supervision, or other state-specific limits.
What is the MSF Basic RiderCourse and is it required?
The MSF Basic RiderCourse is a beginner motorcycle safety course used by many states or approved providers. Some states require a course for certain ages, some allow a course to waive the skills test, and some make it optional.
What happens if my motorcycle permit expires before I take the skills test?
If your motorcycle permit expires, you may need to renew it, retake the written test, pay another fee, or restart part of the process. Renewal limits and waiting periods vary by state.
Do I need a motorcycle license for a moped or scooter?
Moped and scooter rules depend on engine size, top speed, and state vehicle classification. Some low-speed mopeds may use a different license path, while faster scooters often require a motorcycle endorsement or license.
Is lane splitting legal in my state?
Lane splitting and lane filtering laws vary by state and can change. Check your official state motorcycle manual or traffic law source before riding between lanes or filtering at stops.
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