The minimum age for a motorcycle license depends on the type of bike and your state
Most states let you get a motorcycle license at 16, but some require you to be 18. A few states split the difference: you can ride smaller bikes at 16 and larger ones at 18. The exact rules depend on where you live and what size motorcycle you want to ride. Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency sets these rules, and they vary significantly.
The reason for the variation is that states treat motorcycle licensing differently from regular car licenses. Some states tie motorcycle age limits to engine size (measured in cubic centimeters, or cc), while others tie them to the rider's age alone. A few states have a separate "moped" or "motorized bicycle" category with its own age requirement, usually lower than motorcycles.
Key Takeaways
- Most states allow motorcycle licenses at age 16, but some require you to be 18; check your state's DMV website to find the exact rule where you live.
- Many states let younger riders get licenses for smaller bikes (under 500 cc) at 16 and require age 18 for larger bikes.
- Some states require you to hold a regular driver's license first or for a certain amount of time before you can get a motorcycle license.
- You will need to pass a written test, a riding skills test, and sometimes a vision and hearing test, regardless of age.
- A few states offer a learner's permit for motorcycles at a younger age, which lets you practice with restrictions before taking the full license test.
Age requirements by state and bike size
The most common rule is age 16 for any motorcycle. States including California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Texas allow riders to get a full motorcycle license at 16. However, this does not mean every state with a 16-year-old minimum treats all bikes the same way.
Some states use engine size to set different age limits. For example, in Colorado, you can ride bikes under 500 cc at 16 but must be 18 for anything larger. Other states like Washington and Oregon follow a similar tiered system. A few states, including New Jersey and Delaware, require you to be 18 for any motorcycle license, with no exceptions for smaller bikes.
The best way to find your state's exact rule is to visit your state DMV's website and search for "motorcycle license age" or "endorsement requirements." The rule may also depend on whether you are getting a learner's permit or a full license, which are different things.
Learner's permits versus full licenses
A motorcycle learner's permit usually has a lower age requirement than a full license. Many states let you get a learner's permit at 15 or 16, even if you have to be 18 for the full license. A learner's permit lets you practice riding under certain restrictions — usually you cannot ride alone, cannot ride at night, and must wear safety gear.
The learner's permit period typically lasts a few months to a year. During this time, you practice and prepare for the riding skills test. Once you pass that test, you can get your full license. Some states require you to hold the learner's permit for a minimum number of days or months before you can test for the full license, so you cannot rush through the process even if you are ready.
Check your state's DMV website for the learner's permit age and the minimum holding period. This information is usually in the motorcycle or endorsement section of the site.
Whether you need a regular driver's license first
Some states require you to have a valid driver's license before you can get a motorcycle license or endorsement. Others let you get a motorcycle license on its own, without a car license. A few states let you do either, but give you a discount or simpler process if you already have a driver's license.
If your state requires a driver's license first, you will need to pass the car license test before you can even explore for the motorcycle test. This can add weeks or months to the process. If your state does not require it, you can go straight to the motorcycle license without getting a car license first — though most people do get both eventually.
Your state DMV website will state this requirement clearly in the motorcycle section. If it is not obvious, call your local DMV office and ask directly.
Tests you will need to pass
Regardless of your age, you will need to pass a written test about motorcycle safety and traffic laws. This test covers things like how to brake on a motorcycle, what to do in bad weather, and how to handle intersections. You study from your state's motorcycle manual, which is free and available on the DMV website.
You will also need to pass a riding skills test, where an examiner watches you ride and scores your ability to control the bike, turn, brake, and handle obstacles. Some states let you take this test on your own bike; others provide a test bike. A few states accept completion of a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course in place of the riding test, which can be faster and less stressful.
Most states also require a vision test and sometimes a hearing test. These are quick checks to make sure you can see and hear well enough to ride safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them to the test.
How to prepare for the motorcycle license test
Start by getting your state's motorcycle manual from the DMV website. Read it carefully and take practice tests if your state offers them online. Many states have free practice tests on their DMV sites. Spend at least a week studying before you take the written test.
For the riding skills test, practice on a motorcycle or scooter as much as you can during your learner's permit period. If you do not have access to a bike, consider taking an MSF course. These courses teach you to ride safely and many states waive the riding test if you complete one. The course usually takes two to three days and costs between $150 and $300.
Wear proper safety gear every time you practice: a helmet, jacket, gloves, long pants, and boots. This builds the habit and protects you if you fall. On test day, wear the same gear and arrive early so you have time to get comfortable with the test bike if you are using one.
What happens after you pass the test
Once you pass both the written and riding tests, you will get your motorcycle license or endorsement. An endorsement is added to your regular driver's license; a separate license is its own document. Your state will tell you which one you are getting.
Your new license will have restrictions if you are under 18 in some states. Common restrictions include no passengers, no riding between certain hours, and mandatory helmet use. These restrictions usually lift when you turn 18 or after you hold the license for a certain period of time.
Keep your license with you whenever you ride. You will also need to register your motorcycle with your state and carry proof of insurance. These are separate from the license itself but are required by law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a motorcycle license if I do not have a regular driver's license?
It depends on your state. Some states let you get a motorcycle license without a car license, while others require you to have one first. Check your state DMV website or call your local office to find out. If your state requires it, you will need to pass the car license test before you can test for the motorcycle license.
What if I am under 16 and want to ride a motorcycle?
In most states, you cannot get a motorcycle license under 16. However, some states have a "moped" or "motorized bicycle" category for younger riders, usually with an engine size limit of 50 cc or less. These vehicles have a lower age requirement — sometimes as low as 14 or 15. Check your state's DMV website for moped rules in your area.
Do I have to take a motorcycle safety course to get my license?
Most states do not require it, but many offer it as an option. Taking an MSF course can help you pass the riding test and may waive the test entirely in some states. It also teaches you safety skills that could save your life. If you are nervous about the riding test, a course is worth the time and cost.
Can I ride a motorcycle with a learner's permit?
Yes, but with restrictions. A learner's permit usually means you cannot ride alone, cannot ride at night, and must wear a helmet and safety gear. You may also be restricted from riding on highways. These rules vary by state, so check your permit paperwork or your state DMV website for the exact restrictions where you live.
What if I fail the riding test?
You can retake it. Most states let you retake the test after a waiting period of a few days to a week. Use that time to practice more and figure out what went wrong. Many DMV offices let you schedule your next test right away, so you do not have to wait long between attempts.