Minimum age depends on your state and the type of motorcycle license you want
You can get a motorcycle license as early as age 14 or 15 in most states, but the exact age varies by state and by license class. Some states let you ride a limited-engine motorcycle (often called a moped or motorized bicycle) at 14, while a full motorcycle license typically requires you to be 16 or older. A few states don't issue motorcycle licenses until you turn 18. The age requirement also depends on whether you're getting a learner's permit, a restricted license, or an unrestricted license — each has its own minimum age.
Key Takeaways
- Most states allow motorcycle learner's permits between ages 14 and 16, but you must be at least 16 to get an unrestricted motorcycle license in the majority of states.
- Limited-engine motorcycles (under 50cc) often have a lower minimum age than full-size motorcycles, sometimes as low as 14 or 15.
- You will need to pass a written test, a riding skills test, and often a vision and hearing screening before you receive any motorcycle license.
- Some states require you to hold a learner's permit for a set period before you can test for a full license, which delays when you can ride unsupervised.
- Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency sets the specific age rules and testing requirements for your area.
Age requirements for learner's permits versus full licenses
A learner's permit usually comes first and has a lower age requirement than a full motorcycle license. In most states, you can get a motorcycle learner's permit at 14, 15, or 16 — the exact age depends on your state. With a learner's permit, you can ride a motorcycle but must follow restrictions, such as riding only during daylight hours, not carrying passengers, or riding only on certain roads.
A full, unrestricted motorcycle license typically requires you to be 16 or older in most states, though some states require you to be 18. To move from a learner's permit to a full license, you usually must hold the permit for a minimum period (often 6 months to a year) and then pass a riding skills test. A few states skip the learner's permit stage entirely and let you go straight to a full license test if you meet the age requirement.
Limited-engine motorcycles have lower age thresholds in many states
A limited-engine motorcycle — typically defined as 50cc or smaller — often has a lower minimum age than a full-size motorcycle. Some states let you ride a 50cc motorcycle or moped at age 14 or 15 without a full motorcycle license, sometimes with just a moped endorsement on your regular driver's license or a separate limited license. This category includes motorized bicycles and scooters that fall below the engine size threshold.
The rules for limited-engine bikes vary widely. Some states treat them as bicycles with a motor and don't require a motorcycle license at all. Others require a separate endorsement or a restricted motorcycle license. Check your state's DMV website to see how your state classifies small-engine motorcycles and what license you need to ride one legally.
What you must do to get a motorcycle license at any age
Regardless of your age, you must pass a written test covering motorcycle safety, traffic laws, and road signs. Most states offer this test at the DMV. You will also need to pass a riding skills test, which is usually conducted by a DMV examiner or a certified motorcycle safety instructor. Some states let you waive the riding test if you complete a motorcycle safety course (often called a Motorcycle Safety Foundation course or MSF course), though you still take the written test.
You will also need to pass a vision screening and sometimes a hearing test. You must provide proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. If you are under 18, some states require parental consent or a parent's signature on your process. Bring your learner's permit if you have one — most states require you to hold it for a set time before testing for a full license.
State-by-state age differences
Age requirements are not uniform across the country. The following table shows the general pattern, but your specific state may differ. Always check your state's DMV website for the exact rules in your area, because requirements change and vary by license class.
| License Type | Typical Minimum Age | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Learner's permit (full motorcycle) | 14–16 | Varies by state; restrictions explore (no passengers, daylight only, etc.) |
| Full motorcycle license | 16–18 | Most states require 16; some require 18; holding a learner's permit for 6–12 months is often required first |
| Limited-engine (50cc or smaller) | 14–16 | Some states allow this at a younger age than a full motorcycle license; rules vary widely |
| Moped or motorized bicycle | 14–16 | Some states do not require a motorcycle license for vehicles under 50cc; check local law |
How to find your state's specific age requirement
Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent agency — some states call it the Secretary of State or Registry of Motor Vehicles) publishes the exact age requirements and testing procedures for motorcycle licenses. Go to your state DMV's website and search for "motorcycle license" or "motorcycle endorsement." You will find the minimum age, the documents you need to bring, the test fees, and the steps to follow.
If you cannot find the information online, call your local DMV office or visit in person. Staff can tell you the age requirement for your state, what restrictions explore to learner's permits, how long you must hold a permit before testing for a full license, and whether a motorcycle safety course can waive the riding test. Some states also offer the MSF course through community colleges or private instructors, which can speed up the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a motorcycle license before I turn 16?
Yes, in most states you can get a learner's permit at 14 or 15. However, a full, unrestricted motorcycle license typically requires you to be 16 or older. Check your state's DMV website to see the exact ages for learner's permits and full licenses in your area.
What if I already have a regular driver's license — do I still need to test for a motorcycle license?
Yes. A motorcycle license or endorsement is separate from a regular driver's license. You must pass a written test and a riding skills test (or complete a motorcycle safety course) to add a motorcycle endorsement to your license, even if you already hold a driver's license.
Can I take a motorcycle safety course instead of the riding test?
Many states allow you to waive the riding test if you complete an approved motorcycle safety course, such as an MSF course. You still must pass the written test. Check your state's DMV to see if this option is available and which courses are approved in your state.
Do I need a learner's permit before I can test for a full motorcycle license?
Most states require you to hold a motorcycle learner's permit for a set period (often 6 months to a year) before you can test for a full license. Some states allow you to skip the learner's permit and go straight to a full license test if you meet the age requirement. Your state's DMV can tell you which path applies to you.
What restrictions explore to a motorcycle learner's permit?
Learner's permit restrictions vary by state but commonly include riding only during daylight hours, not carrying passengers, not riding on highways, and riding only in your home county or state. Some states require you to wear a safety vest or display a special license plate. Check your state's DMV for the exact restrictions that explore to your permit.