Few words can describe the rush and freedom of cruising down the road on a motorcycle.
However, not just anyone can hop on and start riding. You can’t legally ride a motorbike on public roads without having a motorcycle license or learner’s permit. Let’s start with the steps to obtain a learner’s permit.
First, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with the motorcyclist handbook published by your state’s DMV. The booklet contains all the information you need to pass the written permit exam. You can pick up a copy from your local DMV office, or simply download a digital copy from your state DMV’s website. Once you feel ready, apply for your permit at your local DMV office. Note that you must meet your state’s minimum age threshold and pay an application fee. After you clear the written test and the vision exam, you can start practicing for the license exam.
Of course, this means you’ll need a legal motorcycle. Beginners should consider cruiser models with low seating, as they allow for more comfort and control. Make sure you can provide vehicle insurance, registration, and a valid license plate.
Practice is key. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) offers a basic safety course that incorporates both lecture material and hands-on riding experience. The course begins by teaching the proper safety gear to wear and how to inspect your motorbike for potential issues. It then centers on how to ride in various road conditions and situations, and wraps up with additional pointers. If you complete a course, your state may even forego a portion of your license exam. You can find the curriculum at thousands of locations nationwide.
Each state has its own requirements for how long permit holders must wait before taking the license exam. This is your time to practice. Start by practicing basic starting, braking, and maneuvering. The parking lot at your local DMV office is an ideal training ground, being the site of your exam. Once you feel well-versed in handling your motorbike, schedule a day for your license exam. You must pay the application fee.
Now, all that’s left is clearing the license exam. You must pass all portions of the exam to receive your motorcycle license, one of which may be waived if you completed a MSF training course. If you fail, you must wait a few days before re-attemping. Once you pass, you’ll have to pay a small fee for a motorcycle endorsement, fill out supplementary paperwork, and get your license photo taken. Congratulations, and enjoy the freedom of the open road!
The information in this article was obtained from various sources. This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements, nor is it intended to replace manuals or instructions provided by the manufacturer or the advice of a qualified professional. The definitions, terms and coverage in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.
