Can You Get a Motorcycle License Without a Driver’s License in California?

California’s year-round pleasant climate makes it a perfect place to enjoy a motorcycle ride. However, with limited protection from other vehicles and outside elements, motorcycle riders are at a higher risk of accidents, which is why 14% of traffic fatalities involve motorcyclists.

California’s Department of Motor Vehicles has set rules to regulate motorcycle use in response to the high risk of road accidents. For instance, a motorcycle license allows one to legally operate a motorized bicycle, motorcycle, or bicycle equipped with motors and mopeds.

Similarly, DMV allows holders of class C licenses to operate specific types of motorcycles.

Requirement for Obtaining a Motorcycle License in California

If you want to drive a motorcycle, DMV offers the following types of licenses, depending on the type of vehicle:

• M1 license: You need an M1 license to operate any bike, including motor-driven cycles, motorized scooters, two-wheeled motorcycles, and all vehicles listed under class M1. Obtaining an M1 license is similar to obtaining a driver’s license; however, applicants must undertake the process.
• M2 License: An M2 motorcycle license allows you to operate a moped and motorized bicycle if you travel at most 30 mph. Vehicles in this class should be fully equipped with pedals. The M2 license doesn’t allow you to operate two or three-wheeled vehicles without operational pedals.
• Class C: A holder of a class C license is allowed to operate a motorcycle with a side-attached car, motorized scooter, or a three-wheel motorcycle.

Class M1 and M2 are for people who want to operate vehicles with two wheels. However, a holder of Class C, a license issued for standard motor vehicle operation, can operate a motorcycle with a sidecar attached, a motorized scooter, or a three-wheel motorcycle.

Motorcycle License Age: Age Restrictions for Motorcycle License

16 years is the minimum age to apply for a motorcycle license in California.

In addition, anyone below 21 years old must meet the following requirements:

• Undertake the California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP) course approved by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) and present a certificate of completion to DMV.
• Already be a class C driver or submit proof of completion for driver’s education and training. Driver’s education is an online or classroom course that covers road and safety use. Driver’s training is a course that teaches you practical ways to operate a vehicle.

For Over 21

You don’t need an instruction permit if you’re 21 years and above. You must complete the California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP) training or pass a driving test at a Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) site.

The DMV driving tests cover slow riding, gear shifting, pre-trip inspection, and riding in different track paths. You must also demonstrate proof of financial responsibility.

Drivers aged 21 years and above must also pass the knowledge test(s) within three attempts. If you fail the same test after three attempts, your application is no longer valid, and you’ll need to apply afresh.

You must also pass the vision exam.

Required Documents

You must supply the DMV with the following documents to apply for a motorcycle license:

• A completed Identity Card Application (DL 44) or Driver’s License form— you should sign any of these forms before a DMV employee.
• Proof of  California residency, including rental agreement, utility bill, employment document, mortgage bill, or home utility bill.
• Proof of identity, including passport, birth certificate, or permanent resident card.
• Proof of legal presence in the United States, including citizenship, visa, or naturalization certificates.
• If you have changed your name, you should demonstrate a name change through a divorce decree, marriage certificate, or court order.

After providing the required documents, you can visit a DMV office that offers the skills test or book an appointment.

Motorcycle Skills Test

You require basic vehicle control skills to establish your ability to maneuver in typical traffic situations. You can obtain a skills test waiver after presenting a valid Certificate of Completion of Motorcycle Training (DL 389).

Still, you’ll be required to perform an observation test on a motorcycle-only (Class M1/M2) license. The motorcycle skills tests allow a rider to demonstrate control by applying various skills.

The skill test is a pass/fail test, and the applicants should consider the size of the motorcycle they plan to operate.

During the pre-inspection skills test, a DMV officer requires an applicant to identify the following items on a motorcycle:

• Horn
• Brake signal
• Kill switch
• Clutch, if applicable
• Throttle
• Turn signal
• Starter

An applicant is also required to demonstrate additional skills, including circle ride, twisting ride, gear-shift ride, and riding in the tracking paths. If you’re applying for a motorcycle ride, DMV will require you to complete an observation test.

The observation test is mandatory for applicants who have never obtained a license for any class of motor vehicle. The examiner observes the applicant from a vantage point, usually on the corner, and instructs you to follow a route that keeps in view for the longest time.

Written Test

If you’re below 21 years old, you must take the written test before taking the CMSP course. Those 21 years old and above must pass the written test before attempting the skills test. The written test is a multiple choice test that covers information published in the California Motorcycle Handbook.

The written test covers various topics, including:

• Motorcycle equipment and safety
• Traffic laws
• Navigating common road hazards and emergencies
• Motorcycle riding techniques

Get in Touch With an Experienced California Motorcycle Accident Attorney to Discover Your Options

Due to the minimal protection offered by motorcycles, victims of accidents suffer severe injuries and fatalities. If you or a loved one have been injured in a motorcycle accident due to the negligence of another party, contact The Barnes Firm today.

The Barnes Firm has over 500 combined years of experience, which gives us an edge in protecting your rights.

Contact us online or at (800) 800-0000 for a free case evaluation.

Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Oakland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
San Francisco Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
San Diego Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
San Jose Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Richard Barnes – President of The Barnes Firm

Richard Barnes: “As President of The Barnes Firm, I have dedicated my career to achieving justice in hundreds of cases for the victims of injuries caused through the fault of others. Additionally, I have been honored to have been elected Best Lawyer and a Super Lawyer”

Years of Experience: 30+ years
LinkedIn Profile: Richard Barnes