Frequently Asked Questions:
Motorcycle Permit Process

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A Motorcycle Learner’s Permit Application (Form DL-5) will first need to be completed and, along with the $10.00 fee, taken to a PennDOT Driver License Center for processing. You will be given a vision screening and a motorcycle knowledge test at this time. After passing the knowledge test, the application will be processed and a motorcycle (Class M) learner’s permit issued. The learner’s permit allows you to practice safe operating skills and is valid for one year. When ready to take your skills test, you can either schedule an appointment at one of PennDOT’s Driver License Centers or schedule training through the motorcycle safety program. After the skills test has been passed, a motorcycle (Class M) license will be issued.

Yes. Motorcycle permit holders are only authorized to operate a motorcycle between sunrise and sunset. No nighttime driving is permitted. Motorcycle permit holders cannot carry any passenger other than an instructor properly licensed to operate a motorcycle. Also, if you do not currently hold another Class of License (such as a Class C) than you can only operate a motorcycle under the instruction and immediate supervision of a licensed motorcycle operator.

The skills test can be scheduled online. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and will help locate a center convenient to you. You may also contact PennDOT at 1-800-932-4600 to schedule an exam.

Yes. If you take and pass the PAMSP motorcycle safety course, you will be issued a motorcycle (Class M) license.

The Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program (PAMSP) offers free rider training courses for Pennsylvania residents with a motorcycle (Class M) license or permit.

The beginner Basic Rider Course provides an introduction to the fundamentals of safe, responsible motorcycling, consists of 15 hours of classroom and riding instruction, and is suitable for both beginners and intermediate/advanced riders. Students are provided with a motorcycle and a helmet for use during the training course. Students with a motorcycle learner's permit who successfully complete the course will be issued a motorcycle license.

The Experienced Rider Course addresses critical skills and knowledge, is designed for experienced motorcyclists, and can be completed in one day. Students with a motorcycle learner's permit who successfully complete the course will be issued a motorcycle license. Participants use their own motorcycle. This course is also ideal for graduates of the Basic Rider Course.

You can obtain course schedules for your local area and even register for the training on the Motorcycle Safety Program website or by calling the program office at 1-800-845-9533 between 8:00 am and 12:00 pm, Monday through Friday.

Pennsylvania law requires that any person who operates a motorcycle must wear protective headgear unless he or she is over 21 years of age and has had a motorcycle (Class M) license for a minimum of two years or is over 21 years of age and has completed a motorcycle safety course approved by PennDOT or the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.

If you are exempt from wearing a helmet and your passenger is 21 years of age or older, he or she is also exempt from wearing a helmet.

Individuals with motorcycle learner’s permits are required to wear helmets when operating a motorcycle.

Please Note: The operator or an occupant of a three-wheeled motorcycle equipped with an enclosed cab is exempt from wearing a helmet.

You will need to complete a Motorcycle Learner’s Permit Application (Form DL-5). This form, along with the $10.00 fee, will need to be taken to a PennDOT Driver’s License Center for processing. At the license center you will be given a vision screening and a motorcycle knowledge test. Upon passing the tests, your application will be processed and you will be given a motorcycle learner’s permit valid for one year.

Please Note: If you are under age 18 – You must practice on a learner’s permit for at least 6 months and complete 50 hours of practical driving experience for each class of license prior to your 18th birthday. After completing this requirement, you may test for your motorcycle license at either a Driver’s License Center or through the Motorcycle Safety Program.

You must complete Form DL-5 “Motorcycle Learner’s Permit Application” again, submit the $10 fee, and pass a vision screening and knowledge test. However, you may extend your learner’s permit before it expires one time without taking the knowledge test again.

You must complete Form DL-5 “Motorcycle Learner’s Permit Application” again and submit the $10 fee.

Yes. You will be required to submit a Motorcycle Learner's Permit Application (DL-5) along with a $10.00 fee and a learner’s permit will be issued. You will not be required to retake the motorcycle general knowledge test as long as the knowledge exam was taken and passed within the last 12 months.

The PennDOT Driver’s License Center skills test consists of a pre-trip inspection and the evaluation of the following skills: left circles, right circles, and figure eights.

If you already have another class of license, you will need to bring the following: your valid PA motorcycle (Class M) learner’s permit, valid PA driver’s license, valid inspection sticker, valid registration card for the motorcycle and proof that the motorcycle is currently insured. You will not need to be accompanied by a driver with a motorcycle license.

If you are not already licensed to operate another class of vehicle, you will need to be accompanied by a licensed motorcycle rider in addition to the requirements above.

PennDOT will automatically mail you an invitation to renew your driver’s license 60 days before your current license is due to expire which will include the fees required. You can renew online, by mail, or by visiting any PennDOT authorized On-line Messenger Service Center.

If you would like to remove the motorcycle (Class M) at time of renewal, write “Do not renew Class M” on the renewal application and deduct $20 from the fee listed on the invitation to renew. (Motorcycle renewal fees are $5 per year.)