How to get a Minnesota Motorcycle License
Ready to take your motorcycle on the open road? This article will take you through the steps to get your Minnesota motorcycle license with an extra emphasis on safe driving.
The Rules
Under Minnesota DMV guidelines, anyone who drives a motorcycle must have a Class M motorcycle license or motorcycle instruction permit.
All applicants must pass a knowledge test at a driver examination station in order to qualify for a motorcycle instruction permit. All applicants under 18 years of age must present a certificate at the time they take the knowledge test showing they are enrolled in an approved motorcycle rider-training course and have completed the required classroom instruction. Anyone 15 years or older may acquire a motorized bicycle operator's permit by passing an exam consisting of an eye check, knowledge test, and skills test. If under 18 years of age you must take a motorized bicycle safety course before taking the knowledge test.
Like most states, Minnesota will waive your skills test and issue you a license if you complete an approved basic motorcycle rider safety course. These courses last anywhere from two to six weeks and include classroom instruction as well as driver training in a controlled, off-street environment. When you successfully complete this course, you will be eligible for your motorcycle driver's license without having to take your Minnesota's road test.
Prepare for the Written Exam
The Minnesota DMV requires that all applicants must pass a written motorcycle knowledge test on traffic signs, motor vehicle laws and safe driving techniques.
If you fail the exam, some states require you to wait until at least until the next day to take the test again and charge a re-examination fee.
All motorcyclists are encouraged to study for this written test so you don't take a chance on standing in line at the DMV Office only to go home empty-handed. Online practice tests are available that provide real sample questions from the Minnesota DMV Motorcycle Exam. Take the Minnesota motorcycle sample test now and test your driving knowledge.
Paperwork
Before you head to the Minnesota DMV Office, make sure you have the following required documents to get your motorcycle license. Examples include:
- Certified or original Birth certificate issued in any state
- Drivers license or instruction permit issued in another state
- U.S. passport
- U.S. military ID card (active duty, retired, reserve)
- Minnesota ID card
- Social Security Number, if issued,
- Documents from a court of record
- Marriage certificate
On the Road
Once your licensing requirements have been met, a Class M endorsement will be added to your driver's license. Remember... the safe operation of a motorcycle requires practiced skill, knowledge, and a respectful understanding of the limitations imposed by the operator, the machine, and the environment.
Motorcycle License Resources
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Minnesota Motorcycle Manual Minnesota DMV Minnesota Motorcycle Practice Test |
