How to get a Washington Motorcycle License

Ready to take your motorcycle on the open road? This article will take you through the steps to get your Washington motorcycle license with an extra emphasis on safe driving.

The Rules

Under Washington DMV guidelines, anyone who drives a motorcycle must have a Class M motorcycle license or motorcycle instruction permit.

Applicants must be 16 years of age, pass the motorcycle knowledge test, a sign test and a vision screening. The final step is to pass the motorcycle skills test where you will demonstrate your competency in motorcycle operation.

Washington will waive your knowledge and skills test and issue you a license if you complete an approved basic motorcycle rider safety course within 180 days of applying for your motorcycle endorsement. 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.

• An application fee of $5.00 must be paid prior to taking the written test
• The initial motorcycle endorsement fee is $20.00
• The renewal fee is $25.00. This is in addition to the regular driver's licensing fee

Prepare for the Written Exam

The Washington 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 Washington DMV Motorcycle Exam. Take the Washington sample motorcycle test now and test your driving knowledge.

Paperwork

Before you head to the Washington 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)
• Washington ID card
• Social Security Number, if issued,
• Documents from a court of record
• Marriage certificate
• Parental Consent Form if under 18

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.

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