
Full Answer
How to get M1 license?
To apply for a motorcycle Class M1 or M2 permit, you will need to:
- Visit your local DMV office (make an appointment(s) for faster service)
- Complete application form DL 44 (Copies of this form will not be accepted.)
- Submit your thumbprint
- Have your picture taken
- Pay the application fee
- Pass a vision exam
- Pass a traffic laws and signs test. You have three chances to pass the test.
What is a M1 and m2 license?
With an M1 license, you may ride any type of motorcycle with an attached motor, or any motorized scooter. With an M2 classification, you will be permitted to drive a motorized bicycle, a moped, a bicycle with an attached motor, or a motorized scooter only.
What is M1 drivers license?
- M1 and M2 (for full-speed motorcycles)
- M1 and M2-L (for mopeds and motorized scooters)
- M1 and M2-M (for three-wheeled motorcycles)
What is an M1 motorcycle license?
Without a label, you can identify a limited-speed vehicle, if it is electric or gas powered and has:
- a maximum speed of 70 km/hour
- an automatic transmission
- an engine size of 50 cubic centimetres or less
- a “step through” design between the seat and the handlebars

How do I get my M1 permit in California?
To apply for a motorcycle Class M1 or M2 permit, you will need to:Visit your local DMV office (make an appointment(s) for faster service)Complete application form DL 44 (Copies of this form will not be accepted.)Submit your thumbprint.Have your picture taken.Pay the application fee.Pass a vision exam.More items...
How much is a M1 license in California?
$50Driver's License (DL) FeesApplicationFeeAdding a motorcycle license (Class M1/M2)$50Commercial driving or skill retest$39Replacement (lost or stolen)$37– Info update – Adding a firefighter endorsement$3120 more rows
How long does it take to get a M1 license in California?
six monthsDrivers that are under 21 years old must have a restricted Class M1/M2 motorcycle instruction permit for at least six months. To get a California motorcycle learner permit you'll need to provide the DMV with the necessary documentation and forms, pay the application fee and pass the knowledge tests.
When can you get M1 license in California?
Requirements for a Motorcycle M1 or M2 LicenseREQUIREMENTSMINORS AGE 15½ to 17 (See NOTE 1)ADULTS AGE 18 to 20 (See NOTE 2)Pay required fees✓✓Have your photograph taken✓✓*Pass the applicable knowledge and skills tests✓✓Have an instruction permit for at least 6 months✓✓8 more rows
What happens if you get pulled over without a motorcycle license in California?
For instance, driving a motorcycle in California without a motorcycle license could result in a fine of up to $1,000 and up to six months in jail. While some states have more lax penalties for unlicensed drivers, ultimately it's never a good idea to drive any vehicle without the appropriate license.
How do I get my motorcycle permit in California?
You must complete a motorcycle rider training course approved by the CHP, provide a DL 389 form to DMV to be issued your permit. You must hold the class M1 or M2 permit for six months prior to getting a motorcycle license.
How much is motorcycle insurance in California?
In California, you can expect to pay just over $200 per year (or $16-17 per month) for a motorcycle that's been paid off. However, if you have a brand-new bike, full coverage can creep up to nearly $2,000 per year, or $166+ per month.
Do I need a motorcycle license for a 150cc scooter in California?
Thus, a motorcycle license is required for all of the “scooters” we sell, and scooters with 150cc or more are freeway legal. One caveat: if a scooter or motorcycle has 3 wheels, such as the Piaggio MP3, it does not require a motorcycle license in California. A class C, car license, will suffice for these.
How much does it cost to get your motorcycle license in California?
In California, there is a $35 fee to obtain a learner's permit. While getting your motorcycle license costs $36 for either an M1 or M2 original license. If you need a duplicate or a name change, you can have that done for $28.
Can you ride a motorcycle without a license?
Yes, if you have a full car licence you can ride a 125cc scooter or motorbike off-road. However, you must take and pass your compulsory basic training (CBT) before riding on the road.
What is an M1 license in California?
Anyone wanting to ride a motorcycle in California must possess a valid motorcycle license at all times. California issues different classes of driver licenses for operating any two-wheel vehicle: Class M1 – This license permits operation of any two-wheeled motorcycle and all vehicles listed in Class M2.
Do I need a motorcycle license to buy a motorcycle in California?
Banks usually don't require that a person prove they have a motorcycle license to purchase one, but they will require that you have a driver's license. Additionally, you will need to be at least 18 years old to get a loan at all.
California Motorcycle License
The state of California offers you two options when it comes to getting a California motorcycle license: the M1 and M2 license. An M1 license lets...
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Requirements to Operate A Three-Wheel Motorcycle
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How to pass the California motorcycle test?
Give a thumbprint. Have your picture taken. Pay the application fee. Pass a vision exam. Pass a traffic laws and signs test. You have three chances to pass the test. After studying both the California Driver and the Motorcycle Handbooks, call your local DMV to schedule your appointment for the traffic laws and sign test.
What do you need to get a motorcycle license at 21?
If you are under 21, you must complete a motorcycle rider training course given by the California Highway Patrol (CHP). Upon completion, you will receive a certificate (DL 389), which you must bring to the DMV to be issued your license.
What is the form 389 for motorcycle training?
After completing the course, you will receive a Certificate of Completion of Motorcycle Training (Form DL 389) , which can be used to earn a test waiver. The CHP course usually takes place over a weekend, and there is a fee. The DMV course requires no extra fee and takes only a few minutes.
How many chances do you have to pass the DMV driving test?
You have three chances to pass the test.
How old do you have to be to get a motorcycle permit in California?
To get a California motorcycle permit, you must: Be at least 15 1/2 years old. Already have a CA driver’s license OR submit proof that you have completed both driver’s education and driver’s training. If you are under 21, you must complete a motorcycle rider training course given by the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
What is the California motorcycle safety program?
The California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP), administered by the CHP, is the official state-approved training course for bike riders.
How long is a motorcycle permit good for?
Prior to getting a license, you must obtain a motorcycle permit. The permit is good for six months, during which you can practice riding and get comfortable on the bike. However, you are not allowed to ride your motorcycle on the freeway, during the nighttime, and with passengers.
What is an M1 motorcycle license?
With an M1 license, you may ride any type of motorcycle with an attached motor, or any motorized scooter. With an M2 classification, you will be permitted to drive a motorized bicycle, a moped, a bicycle with an attached motor, ...
Where to go to get a license in CA?
Visit your local CA DMV office in person.
How long do you have to hold a motorcycle permit before driving?
If you're under 21 years old, you must hold this permit for 6 months before the driving test.
How old do you have to be to get a motorcycle permit in California?
To get a California motorcycle permit, you must: Be at least 16 years old. EITHER: Already have a CA driver's license. OR. Submit proof that you have completed both driver's education and driver's training. Complete a California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP), if you are under 21 years old.
How old do you have to be to take the motorcycle skills test?
21 and Over. For applicants at least 21 years old, if you hold no other license, you may be required to complete other tests before being allowed to take the skills test. If you currently hold a valid CA license, you can: Complete a CHP-approved motorcycle rider training course. OR.
How long is a learner's permit good for?
Your $38 learner's permit application fee will be good for 12 months. You may also take the written and skills tests up to 3 times. Note that if your application expires before you pass the tests and are issued a permit, you must start the application process from the beginning.
Can you practice driving a motorcycle with a motorcycle permit?
With your motorcycle learner's permit, you may now practice driving a motorcycle. However, you are not allowed to:
What is the M2 license?
The DMV issues M2 licenses, which can be used to operate a motorized bicycle, or moped and M1 licenses , which are used for operating any two-wheeled vehicle. In most cases, motorcycle licenses come with more requirements if you are younger than 18 years of age when you apply.
How old do you have to be to get a motorcycle permit in California?
The minimum motorcycle permit age in California is 15 years and six months of age. However, a motorcycle permit is only required if you are younger than 21 years of age when you apply for your license. Permits allow you to practice riding in a training course or improve your skills before taking your road test.
What is a California motorcycle endorsement?
Motorcycle endorsements are provided to drivers who already have a regular Class C license when they apply for motorcycle driving credentials. Rather than being issued two separate licenses, the driver will simply receive an updated license that includes a motorcycle endorsement for the appropriate class of motorcycle.
What is a motorcycle driving test?
Motorcycle Driving Test. Motorcycle road tests are conducted in actual traffic or on an off-street course depending on where you take your exam. The DMV motorcycle driving test starts with a pre-trip inspection, in which you will need to identify the components of your bike.
How long do you have to hold a motorcycle permit before you can get a license?
If you are younger than 21 years of age when you apply, then taking motorcycle training is mandatory and you must hold your permit for six months before you are eligible to get a license with full privileges.
How long is a CMSP certificate valid?
Upon completion of the class, you will receive a DL 389 form, which is valid for a period of 12 months. Only a CMSP class certificate can be used to waive the skills test, meaning that you cannot complete a different type of class in order to avoid taking the DMV test.
What documents are needed to get a motorcycle license?
This includes an identity document, proof of your Social Security Number, a residency document and proof of your legal name if it has changed from the name on your identity document.
What is an M1 motorcycle license?
There are two classes of motorcycle licenses in California: an M1 license is for any two-wheeled motorcycle; an M2 license is only for motorized scooters, mopeds, and bikes with an attached motor.
How to get a motorcycle license in California?
Want to know how to get your California motorcycle license? The process is very simple and similar to getting a driver’s license: you’ll need to submit an application, pay a fee, and pass both a written and driving test. There are unique requirements for a California motorcycle license, however: 1 Completed California Highway Patrol-approved California Motorcycle Safety Program training course OR pass a California DMV motorcycle driving test 2 Pass a vision test 3 Pass a written knowledge test 4 Present acceptable proof of identity and California residency 5 If under 21, you must have had a motorcycle learner’s permit for at least 6 months
How much does it cost to train a motorcycle in California?
The cost of the course is up to $350 for riders over 21 and $295 for riders under 21.
How many questions are asked in the California motorcycle test?
There are 25 questions and you need to get 21 (80%) correct to pass. Ahead of your test, you can study the California Motorcycle Handbook. You can also take a sample California motorcycle license test online before you take the official exam. The practice test is available through the California DMV.
How long do you have to have a motorcycle permit?
If under 21, you must have had a motorcycle learner’s permit for at least 6 months
How to take a driving test in California?
Take the driving test through the California DMV. To take the test through the DMV, you will need to schedule the test in advance. They are only done by appointment. To make an appointment, call 1-800-777-0133 during normal business hours or visit the DMV appointment portal.
How old do you have to be to get a permit in California?
If you are 15-1/2 to 21 years old, you must first complete the CHP-approved California Motorcyclist Safety Program and receive a certificate of completion to get your permit. You can then submit an application for a learner’s permit.
What is the number to check off highway in California?
minus. For areas throughout the state that are designated for off-highway vehicle (OHV) use, check the California State Parks Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation or call (916) 324-4442. Please visit the following California State Parks link for laws and safety information for off-highway vehicles.
What is the phone number for off highway vehicles in California?
For areas throughout the state that are designated for off-highway vehicle (OHV) use, check the California State Parks Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation or call (916) 324-4442.
Can you waive a motorcycle test?
DMV may waive the skills test for a person presenting a valid DL 389; however, you may be required to perform an observation test for a motorcycle only license.
