The minimum age to get a motorcycle license varies by state and depends on the type of license you want
Most states let you get a motorcycle-only license between 16 and 18, but the exact age depends on where you live and whether you want to ride a full-size motorcycle or a smaller one. Some states issue a separate motorcycle endorsement to your regular driver's license starting at 14 or 15, while others require you to be 18 for any motorcycle riding. A few states split the difference with a restricted motorcycle license for younger riders — you can ride bikes under a certain engine size, then upgrade to an unrestricted license at an older age.
The age requirement also changes based on whether you take a safety course. Many states lower the minimum age by one or two years if you complete an approved motorcycle training program, because the course proves you know how to handle a bike safely. Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website lists both the standard age and the course-reduced age for your specific situation.
Key Takeaways
- Most states allow a motorcycle license or endorsement between ages 14 and 18, with the exact age depending on your state and the bike's engine size.
- Completing an approved motorcycle safety course can lower the minimum age by one or two years in many states.
- Some states issue a restricted license for smaller bikes at a younger age, then let you upgrade to unrestricted at 18 or 21.
- You typically need to pass a written test, a riding skills test, and a vision check, regardless of age.
- A few states require you to hold a regular driver's license for a set period before you can get a motorcycle license.
Age requirements by license type
States use different systems, so the age you can start riding depends on what kind of license you are after. A motorcycle-only license (Class M or similar) lets you ride any motorcycle and is separate from your car license. A motorcycle endorsement adds motorcycle riding to your existing driver's license. A restricted or limited license lets you ride smaller bikes — usually under 500cc or 650cc — at a younger age, then you upgrade later.
For a motorcycle-only license, most states set the minimum age at 16 or 17. For an endorsement on your regular license, ages typically range from 14 to 18. Restricted licenses for smaller bikes often start at 14 or 15. If you complete a state-approved motorcycle safety course, you can usually subtract one or two years from the minimum age in your state. Check your state's DMV website for the exact ages and restrictions that explore to you, because the rules vary significantly.
How a motorcycle safety course can lower the age requirement
Taking a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course or your state's equivalent training program is one of the fastest ways to get on a bike younger. Most states recognize these courses and will reduce the minimum age requirement by one or two years if you pass. The course typically runs 15 to 20 hours over a weekend or a few evenings, covers basic riding skills and safety, and ends with a riding test that counts toward your license test.
The benefit is twofold: you learn to ride safely before you take the state test, and you often skip the riding portion of the state test itself if you pass the course exam. Some states also waive the written test if you complete the course. Contact your state's DMV or search for "MSF course near me" to find classes in your area — many community colleges, motorcycle shops, and riding schools offer them. The course costs money (usually $150 to $300), but it can save you time and lower the age barrier.
What you need to bring to get your motorcycle license
Bring the same documents you would bring for a regular driver's license: proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or state ID), proof of residency (utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number or tax ID. If you are under 18, bring a parent or guardian and their ID as well — most states require parental consent for minors. Bring your regular driver's license if you already have one, especially if you are getting an endorsement rather than a separate motorcycle license.
If you completed a motorcycle safety course, bring your course completion certificate. Some states let you mail it in advance, while others want to see the original at the DMV. Call your local DMV office before you go to confirm what they need, because requirements vary by location and some offices have different rules than others.
The written test and riding test
The written test covers motorcycle-specific rules: how to brake and turn safely, what road hazards affect bikes differently than cars, how to read motorcycle gauges, and your state's motorcycle traffic laws. Most states let you study a free manual on the DMV website before you take the test. The test is usually 25 to 50 multiple-choice questions, and you need to pass with a score around 80 percent. You can retake it if you fail, though some states charge a fee for each attempt.
The riding test happens on a closed course or parking lot, not on public roads. You will demonstrate basic skills: starting the bike, riding in a straight line, turning, braking, and swerving to avoid an obstacle. The test takes 10 to 15 minutes. If you completed an MSF course, you may be able to skip this test entirely — your course completion certificate counts as proof you can ride. Ask your DMV whether your course qualifies for a waiver before you register for the test.
Restrictions that explore to younger motorcycle riders
If you get a motorcycle license under 18, your state may impose restrictions on what you can ride or when you can ride it. Common restrictions include a limit on engine size (you can only ride bikes under 500cc, for example), a ban on riding at night, or a requirement to wear a helmet and protective gear at all times. Some states also require you to display an orange or red decal on your bike to show you are a restricted rider.
These restrictions usually stay in place until you turn 18 or 21, depending on your state. Once you reach that age, you can return to the DMV and remove the restrictions without taking another test — you just pay a fee and get a new license card. Check your state's DMV website for the specific restrictions that explore to your age and license type, because they vary widely.
Holding a regular driver's license first
A few states require you to hold a valid regular driver's license for a set period — often 6 months to a year — before you can get a motorcycle license or endorsement. This rule is less common than it used to be, but it still exists in some places. The idea is that you should have some driving experience before you add motorcycle riding to your skills.
If your state has this requirement, you cannot skip it by taking a safety course. You will need to wait out the holding period, then explore for the motorcycle license. Check your state's DMV website or call your local office to find out whether this rule applies to you. If it does, you can use the waiting time to take a motorcycle safety course, so you are ready to test as soon as the holding period ends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a motorcycle license at 14?
In some states, yes — usually with a restricted license for smaller bikes or if you complete a safety course. In others, the minimum is 16 or 18. Check your state's DMV website for the exact age in your location.
Do I need a regular driver's license before I get a motorcycle license?
Most states do not require it, but a few do. Some states require you to hold a regular license for 6 months or a year first. Your state's DMV website will tell you whether this applies to you.
What happens if I fail the riding test?
You can retake it, usually after waiting a few days. Some states charge a fee for each attempt. If you failed because you were nervous, consider taking a motorcycle safety course first — it builds your confidence and may let you skip the riding test altogether.
Can I ride a motorcycle with just a regular driver's license?
No. You need either a separate motorcycle license or a motorcycle endorsement on your regular license. Riding without one is illegal and will result in a ticket and fines.
Do I have to wear a helmet if I have a motorcycle license?
Helmet laws vary by state. Some require helmets for all riders, some only for riders under 18, and a few have no helmet requirement. Check your state's laws, but wearing a helmet is always the safest choice regardless of what the law says.