How to get an Oregon Motorcycle License
- Oregon Motorcycle License Guidelines
- How to Prepare for the Written Exam
- Required ID and Paperwork
Oregon DMV Motorcycle License Rules
Ready to take your motorcycle on the open road? We'll walk you through the steps to get your Oregon motorcycle license with an extra emphasis on safe driving.
You'll need to be familiar with the Oregon Driver's Manual. Think you know the material?
Take our Motorcycle License practice test now and test your knowledge here first!
First Time Motorcycle Riders
Under Oregon DMV guidelines, anyone who drives a motorcycle must have a Class M motorcycle license or motorcycle instruction permit. A motorcycle endorsement authorizes the operation of any size motorcycle. To qualify/apply you must:
- Be an Oregon resident
- Be at least 16 years of age
- Have a regular driver license (Non-Commercial Class C) or higher
- Under 18: Obtain a parent or guardian's signature on the application, unless married or an emancipated minor
- Pass a motorcycle endorsement knowledge test and an on-cycle drive test, or present a Basic Rider Training Completion Card from Team Oregon Motorcycle Safety Program
- Pass a vision-screening test
If you apply for a motorcycle endorsement and you do not have a valid motorcycle endorsement from another state, you must complete an approved motorcycle rider education course. This requirement is effective based apply on or after the dates below:
- January 1, 2012 - UNDER 41
- January 1, 2013 - UNDER 51
- January 1, 2014 - UNDER 61
- January 1, 2015 - Any Age
Like most states, Oregon 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 Oregon road test.
Prepare for the Motorcycle License Written Test
The Oregon 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. Test your motorcycle safety and driving knowledge and take our Oregon motorcycle practice test today!
Required Paperwork
Before you head to the Oregon DMV Office, make sure you have the following required documents to get your motorcycle license. Examples include:
- 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)
- Oregon ID card
- Social Security Number, if issued,
- Documents from a court of record
- Marriage certificate
- Parental Consent Form, which must be signed in the presence of a driver license examiner or notarized if parent or guardian will not be present.
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.
