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Motorcycle Licensing Information


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Click to Download the Motorcycle Operation Manual

How to Obtain a Temporary Motorcycle Learner's Permit

  1. To help you study for the knowledge test, be sure to pick up a Motorcycle Operator Manual and a Digest of Motor Vehicle Laws from any license agency or exam station. 

  2. Proceed to any exam station to complete the knowledge test.

  3. Call to schedule an appointment for your motorcycle skills test or contact Motorcycle Ohio to take a safety course.

  4. Upon successfully passing the knowledge and skills test, you will proceed to any Deputy Registrar along with your motorcycle Temporary Instruction Permit Identification Card (T.I.P.I.C.)  Be sure to have proper identification (See Acceptable Documents).

    NOTE: Novice course graduates will have the State of Ohio skills test waived upon successful completion of the Basic Rider Course.  Graduates under 18 years of age must meet all Graduated Driver Licensing requirements.  To receive a waiver of the state motorcycle skills test, you must present your course completion card and your temporary license forms to a Deputy Registrar at the Ohio BMV within 60 days of course completion.

How to Obtain a Motorcycle License or Endorsement*

  1. Contact a drivers license exam station to make an appointment for the on-cycle examination. No fee is charged for this test. In addition, you will need to provide proof of identity (See Acceptable Documents).

  2. You must bring a street legal motorcycle to the exam site and you must wear a helmet and eye protection during the test.

  3. After you have passed the on-cycle test, the examiner will fill out and validate the road and maneuverability box on the back of your temporary instruction permit.

  4. The temporary instruction permit and your driver's license (if you have one) must be presented to the license agency to receive your motorcycle license or to add a motorcycle endorsement to your current valid license. A fee is charged for issuing this new license.

*If you are 16 or 17 years old, you must show proof of completing a driver education course and a motorcycle safety education course before you are eligible to take the on-cycle test to obtain a motorcycle license or endorsement. If you are 18 years old or above, you are not required to complete either course to take the on cycle license test. However, completion of the motorcycle course will provide you with the skills to pass the test.

Motorcycle Licensing & Registration Fee Information

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