How to get a Maryland Motorcycle License
- Maryland Motorcycle License Guidelines
- How to Prepare for the Written Exam
- Required ID and Paperwork
Maryland DMV Motorcycle License Rules
Ready to take your motorcycle on the open road? We'll walk you through the steps to get your Maryland motorcycle license with an extra emphasis on safe driving.
You'll need to be familiar with the Maryland Driver's Manual. Think you know the material?
Take our Motorcycle License practice test now and test your knowledge here first!
First Time Motorcycle Riders
Under Maryland DMV guidelines, anyone who drives a motorcycle must have a Class M motorcycle license or motorcycle instruction permit.
All applicants under 18 years of age and all new drivers, regardless of age, must have satisfactorily completed an approved driver education course of not less than 30 hours of classroom instruction and 6 hours behind-the-wheel driver training. if the motorcycle license is the applicant's first license, then the applicant must complete the provisions outlined under the Graduated Licensing System.
All applicants must 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.
An individual who satisfactorily completes the Basic Rider Course (BRC) or the Alternate Basic Rider Course (BRC II) will receive a Motorcycle Safety Program Completion Certificate. This certificate can be presented at any DMV full-service office for a Class "M" license. Participation in a motorcycle rider course is voluntary except for individuals under the age of 18. Anyone under the age of 18 must complete the Basic Rider course before applying for a motorcycle license. These courses last anywhere from two to six weeks and include classroom instruction as well as driver training in a controlled, off-street environment.
Prepare for the Motorcycle License Written Test
The Maryland DMV requires that all applicants must pass a written motorcycle knowledge test on traffic signs, motor vehicle laws and safe driving techniques.
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. Test your motorcycle safety and driving knowledge and take our Maryland motorcycle practice test today!
Required Paperwork
Before you head to the Maryland DMV Office, make sure you have the following required documents to get your motorcycle license. Examples include:
- Birth certificate issued in any state
- Drivers license or instruction permit issued in another state
- U.S. passport
- U.S. military IN card (active duty, retired, reserve)
- Maryland ID card
- Social Security Number, if issued,
- Documents from a court of record
- Marriage certificate
- Parental Consent Form, which must be signed in the presence of a driver license examiner or notarized if parent or guardian will not be present.
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.
