How to get a South Carolina Motorcycle License

First Time Motorcycle Riders

Under South Carolina DMV guidelines, anyone who drives a motorcycle must have a Class M motorcycle license or motorcycle instruction permit.

If you are 15 years old and have held another class beginner's permit for 180 days, you are eligible for a motorcycle beginner's permit by taking the vision test and motorcycle knowledge test. If you have a conditional driver's license, you can get a motorcycle conditional license by taking the vision test, the motorcycle knowledge test and the motorcycle skills test.

If you are 15 years old and have never had a license or beginner's permit, you must have your motorcycle beginner's permit for at least 180 days before you can apply for a motorcycle license.

If you are Under 18 Years of Age:

• You must bring your parent or legal guardian with you to sign your application.
• You must bring your birth certificate, social security card, proof of residency and insurance information.
• You must submit documentation certifying that you have:
• Completed a driver's education course
• Had satisfactory school attendance
• Practiced driving with your licensed parent or guardian for 40 hours, including 10 hours of driving practice at night.
• You must pass the vision and road skills tests.

If you are 18 Years of Age or Older:

• You must bring your birth certificate, social security card, proof of residency and insurance information.
• You must pass the vision and road skills test.

Prepare for the Motorcycle License Written Test

The South Carolina DMV requires that all applicants must pass a written motorcycle knowledge test on traffic signs, motor vehicle laws and safe driving techniques. If you fail the exam, some states require you to wait until at least until the next day to take the test again and charge a re-examination fee.

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 South Carolina motorcycle practice test today!

Required Paperwork

Before you head to the South Carolina 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 ID card (active duty, retired, reserve)
• South Carolina ID card
• Social Security Number, if issued,
• Documents from a court of record
• Marriage certificate

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.