Yes, you can get a motorcycle license at 16 in most states, but the rules vary
Most states allow you to get a motorcycle license or endorsement at 16, though some require you to be 17 or 18. The age depends on your state and the type of motorcycle license you want — a learner's permit usually comes earlier than a full license. You will also need to pass a written test on motorcycle safety and rules, and a riding skills test on an actual motorcycle.
The process is different from getting a car license because motorcycles require separate training and testing. Some states let you take a motorcycle safety course instead of the riding test, which can actually be faster than the standard route. Starting at 16 gives you time to build skills before you ride on your own.
Key Takeaways
- Most states allow a motorcycle learner's permit at 16, but you must be 17 or 18 to get a full motorcycle license in some states.
- You will need to pass a written test on motorcycle laws and safety, and a riding skills test on an actual motorcycle.
- Taking an approved motorcycle safety course can replace the riding test in many states and may lower your insurance costs.
- A learner's permit usually comes with restrictions like no night riding or passengers, which vary by state.
- You must have a valid car license or learner's permit in most states before you can get a motorcycle license.
Age requirements by license type
A learner's permit for motorcycles is available at 16 in most states. This lets you practice riding under certain conditions — usually only during daylight, without passengers, and sometimes only with a licensed rider present. The permit is temporary and expires after a set period, usually six months to a year.
A full motorcycle license (called an endorsement or restriction in some states) typically requires you to be 17 or 18, depending on where you live. A few states allow it at 16 with parental consent. Check your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website for the exact age in your state, since the rules change and vary widely.
Some states have a restricted motorcycle license for younger riders, which limits engine size or horsepower. This is common for 16-year-olds and usually expires when you turn 18 or 21, at which point you can test for an unrestricted license.
What you need before you test
You must have a valid driver's license or learner's permit for a car in most states before you can get a motorcycle license. A few states skip this requirement, but it is the standard. Bring your current ID, proof of residency, and your Social Security number to the DMV.
You will also need access to a motorcycle to use during the riding test. This can be your own bike, a borrowed one, or a motorcycle provided by a safety course. The motorcycle must be street-legal and registered — you cannot use an off-road bike. If you do not own one, taking a safety course is often easier because the course provides the motorcycle.
Some states require proof of insurance before you can register a motorcycle, so check your state's rules. You may also need a helmet that meets safety standards, though most testing locations provide one if you do not have your own.
The written test and what it covers
The written test covers motorcycle-specific rules and safety. You will answer questions about how to brake on a motorcycle, what to do if your front tire blows out, how to lean in a turn, and how to share the road with cars. The test usually has 20 to 50 questions, and you need to pass with a score of 70 to 80 percent depending on your state.
You can study for the written test using your state's motorcycle handbook, which is free and available online from your DMV. Many states also offer practice tests online. Spend a few weeks reading the handbook and taking practice tests — the written portion is usually easier than the riding test for most people.
Some states let you take the written test at home online, while others require you to go to the DMV. Check your state's website to see which option is available where you live.
The riding skills test or safety course option
The riding skills test is a practical test where you ride a motorcycle in a controlled area while an examiner watches. You will be tested on basic skills like starting the bike, riding in a straight line, braking, turning, and swerving to avoid an obstacle. The test usually takes 15 to 20 minutes. You must wear a helmet and protective gear, and the examiner will fail you if you drop the bike or lose control.
Many states let you skip the riding test if you complete an approved motorcycle safety course. These courses are usually two or three days long and teach you how to ride safely. You practice on actual motorcycles with an instructor watching. If you pass the course, you get a certificate that you can bring to the DMV instead of taking the riding test. This is often easier for first-time riders because instructors are trained to teach beginners.
Safety courses also have another benefit: many insurance companies give you a discount if you have completed one, sometimes 10 percent or more off your motorcycle insurance. This can save you money for years.
Restrictions on a learner's permit
A motorcycle learner's permit comes with rules you must follow. You cannot ride at night in most states — usually you must be off the road by sunset or a set time like 8 p.m. You cannot carry passengers, and you cannot ride on highways or interstate roads in some states. You must wear a helmet and eye protection.
These restrictions exist because new riders are more likely to crash, and crashes are more serious on a motorcycle than in a car. The restrictions stay in place until you pass the riding test or safety course and get your full license. The permit usually lasts six months to a year, so plan to test before it expires.
What happens after you pass the test
Once you pass the written and riding tests (or complete a safety course), you will get a motorcycle endorsement added to your driver's license. This is usually done at the DMV on the same day you test. You will pay a fee, usually between $15 and $50, and your license will be updated to show you can ride a motorcycle.
If you got a restricted license because of your age, the restriction will expire on a set date — usually when you turn 18 or 21. At that point, you can test again for an unrestricted license if your state requires it, or the restriction will automatically lift.
You will need to register your motorcycle with your state and carry proof of registration when you ride. You will also need motorcycle insurance before you ride on public roads. Insurance costs vary based on the bike, your age, and your riding record, but expect to pay more as a young rider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ride a motorcycle at 16 without a license if I have a learner's permit?
No. A learner's permit lets you practice, but you must follow all the restrictions — usually no night riding, no passengers, and no highways. You cannot ride freely until you pass the test and get your full license. If you ride without following the permit rules, you can be ticketed.
Do I need to take a safety course or can I just take the riding test?
You can do either one. The riding test is shorter but harder if you have not practiced much. A safety course takes longer but teaches you skills first, and many people find it less stressful. The course also gives you an insurance discount, which the test does not.
What if I fail the riding test?
You can usually retake it after a waiting period, often one week to one month depending on your state. Use that time to practice more on your learner's permit. Many people pass on the second try. Check your state's DMV website for the exact waiting period and retake fee.
Can I ride a big motorcycle at 16, or are there engine size limits?
Many states limit engine size for riders under 18. Common restrictions are 500cc or less, or a maximum of 35 horsepower. These limits are designed to match bike power to rider experience. Once you turn 18 or 21, you can usually test for an unrestricted license to ride any motorcycle.
How much does a motorcycle license cost?
The test fee is usually $15 to $50, and the license endorsement fee is similar. A safety course costs $100 to $300 depending on your area. These are one-time costs. Motorcycle insurance, registration, and the bike itself will cost much more over time.