How to Get a Motorcycle License in California

Have you ever seen a motorcycle rider coasting down California's cool roadways and secretly wished it was you? It easily could be. California's Department of Motor Vehicles will issue a motorcycle license to any driver who successfully completes motorcycle written and driving tests. You're only a few steps away from feeling the wind in your hair.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Logon to California's Department of Motor Vehicles website (see Resources below). Click on "Publications."

2. Download the current California Driver Handbook and California Motorcycle Handbook.

3. Study both the California Driver Handbook and California Motorcycle Handbook. Carefully study the theories, principles, rules, laws and practices in the handbooks. You need to recall the specifics of this information during testing.

4. Locate your local Department of Motor Vehicles office by clicking on "Offices" and "DMV Public Offices." Click on the name of your city for a street address and phone number.

5. Call the nearest Department of Motor Vehicles office and schedule an appointment. Tell the agent that you are interested in obtaining a motorcycle license. Choose an appointment time before 4:30 p.m. so that you have enough time to complete the required tests.

6. Show up for your appointment. Request Form # DL 44 for motorcycle licensing. Complete the application.

7. Provide proof of your identity in the form of a social security card and birth certificate. Give your thumbprint and have your picture taken at the facility.

8. Pay all fees associated with the application process.

9. Take and pass a vision exam and a traffic laws and signs test. Obtain a motorcycle instruction permit upon successful completion of the tests.

10. Practice riding your motorcycle on real roadways. Avoid highways, freeways and driving at night.

11. Contact the Department of Motor Vehicles office to schedule a motorcycle driving test.

12. Pass the motorcycle driving test. Have your M1 or M2 motorcycle driver's license issued.

Tips & Warnings

• Drivers over 21 have the option of passing a motorcycle rider training course or taking a motorcycle rider's test provided by the DMV. Riders under 21 must complete the motorcycle rider training course and present the completion card to the DMV for their licenses.
• Do not practice driving with passengers.
• You may only take the traffic laws and signs tests three times.

Resources

• California's Department of Motor Vehicles

Who Can Help Sponsored

[tdsumpter]

on 9/17/2009 if you have an out of state license can you still get a motorcycle license in California?