The basic path to a New Jersey motorcycle license
To get a motorcycle license in New Jersey, you need to pass a written test on motorcycle rules, pass a practical riding test, and pay a fee to the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC). You can take the tests at any MVC office, though you'll need to bring specific documents and pass a vision screening first. The whole process typically takes a few hours on test day, though you may need to schedule your appointment weeks in advance depending on how busy your local office is.
New Jersey offers two main routes: you can take the state's riding test, or you can complete an approved motorcycle safety course and skip the riding test. The safety course route is faster for many people because it eliminates the wait for a riding test appointment, though it costs more upfront.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring your valid New Jersey driver's license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of New Jersey residency to any MVC office to take the written and riding tests.
- The written test covers motorcycle-specific rules and is taken on a computer at the MVC; you need a score of at least 80 percent to pass.
- You can either take the state's riding test on an MVC-provided motorcycle or complete a New Jersey-approved Motorcycle Safety Foundation course to waive the riding test.
- The motorcycle safety course costs between $200 and $300, takes one or two days, and includes both classroom and hands-on riding instruction.
- Once you pass both tests, you pay the license fee at the MVC and receive your motorcycle endorsement added to your existing driver's license.
Documents you need to bring to the MVC
Bring your current New Jersey driver's license, a document showing your Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof that you live in New Jersey (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 30 days). You'll also need to bring the $10 fee for the written test and $25 for the riding test if you're taking the state test instead of a safety course.
If you don't have a New Jersey driver's license yet, you'll need to get one first before you can add a motorcycle endorsement. The MVC website lists all required documents for a standard driver's license process.
Taking the written test at the MVC
The written test is administered on a computer at any MVC office and covers New Jersey motorcycle laws, safe riding practices, and hazard recognition. The test has 50 questions, and you need to answer at least 40 correctly to pass. You can take the test in English or several other languages.
The test covers topics like proper helmet use, how to handle a motorcycle in different weather conditions, right-of-way rules specific to motorcycles, and what to do if your brakes fail. Study materials are available on the MVC website, and many people use the official New Jersey Driver Manual (which includes a motorcycle section) to prepare. You can retake the test if you don't pass, though you'll pay the $10 fee again.
The riding test versus the safety course option
If you take the state riding test, an MVC examiner will watch you perform specific maneuvers on a provided motorcycle in a closed course. The test includes starting the motorcycle, riding in a straight line, making turns, braking, and swerving. You must wear a helmet and protective gear, which the MVC provides. The test lasts about 20 minutes, and you need to demonstrate safe control of the motorcycle without putting down your feet or hitting any cones.
The alternative is to complete a New Jersey-approved Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course instead. These courses are offered by private training schools throughout the state and typically cost $200 to $300. The course includes classroom instruction on the first day and hands-on riding practice on the second day, using training motorcycles provided by the school. Once you complete the course, you receive a certificate that you bring to the MVC, and you skip the state riding test entirely. You still take the written test at the MVC.
Many people choose the safety course because scheduling a riding test appointment can take several weeks, while safety courses often have openings within days. The course also gives you actual instruction from a trained instructor rather than just being tested, which some riders find more valuable.
Scheduling your MVC appointment and test day
Schedule your MVC appointment online through the New Jersey MVC website or by calling 609-292-6500. You can book an appointment at any of the 19 MVC offices across the state. Appointments fill up quickly, especially at offices in populated areas, so book as far in advance as you can. Walk-ins are not accepted for license tests.
On test day, arrive at least 15 minutes early. Bring all required documents, your glasses or contacts if you need them for vision correction, and appropriate clothing if you're taking the riding test (closed-toe shoes are required). You'll start with a vision screening, then take the written test on a computer. If you pass the written test and are taking the state riding test, you'll do that when ready after. If you're using a safety course certificate, you'll skip the riding test and just pay your license fee.
What happens after you pass both tests
Once you pass the written test and either the riding test or submit your safety course certificate, you pay the motorcycle endorsement fee at the MVC office. The fee is $25 for a four-year endorsement or $37.50 for a ten-year endorsement. You'll receive your updated driver's license with the motorcycle endorsement added within a few days by mail.
Your new license will show an "M" endorsement, which means you're legally permitted to operate a motorcycle on New Jersey roads. The endorsement is valid for the same period as your driver's license. When you renew your driver's license, you can renew the motorcycle endorsement at the same time.
Finding and registering for a motorcycle safety course
To find an approved MSF course in New Jersey, visit the Motorcycle Safety Foundation website or search the New Jersey MVC website for a list of authorized training providers. Courses are offered year-round, though availability is higher in spring and summer. Most courses run on weekends and take either one full day (8 to 10 hours) or two half-days.
When you register for a course, you'll need to bring a valid driver's license and pay the course fee directly to the training school. The school provides the motorcycle, helmet, and protective gear. After you complete the course, the school gives you a certificate of completion, which you bring to the MVC along with your other documents. You still need to take the written test at the MVC even after completing the safety course.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a motorcycle license if I only ride on private property?
Yes, a motorcycle license is required to operate any motorcycle on public roads in New Jersey. If you only ride on private land with the owner's permission, you don't need a license, but any riding on streets, highways, or public parking lots requires one.
Can I use an out-of-state motorcycle license in New Jersey?
Yes, you can ride with a valid motorcycle license from another state. However, if you become a New Jersey resident, you must get a New Jersey license within a certain timeframe. Check the MVC website for the specific residency requirements.
What if I fail the riding test?
You can retake the riding test by scheduling another appointment at the MVC. There's no limit on how many times you can retake it, though you'll pay the $25 fee each time. Many people who fail the state test then take a safety course instead, which gives them instruction before being tested again.
How long does the motorcycle endorsement last?
The endorsement lasts as long as your driver's license — either four or ten years depending on which license term you chose. When you renew your driver's license, you can renew the motorcycle endorsement at the same time for the same fee.
Can I take the safety course before I have my driver's license?
No, you must have a valid New Jersey driver's license before you can take the safety course or take the MVC tests. The motorcycle endorsement is added to your existing driver's license, not issued as a separate document.