How to get a Vermont Motorcycle License

First Time Motorcycle Riders

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

Applicants must be 16 years of age, successfully complete a 4-hour Vermont Motorcycle Awareness Program training course, 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.

To obtain a motorcycle endorsement, you must appear at an examination station and pass a 25 question, multiple choice, written test based on material in the motorcycle manual. To pass the examination, 20 of the 25 questions must be answered correctly. (Results of the written test are valid for 120 days from the date of the examination.)

Upon successful completion of the written test the applicant will be required to successfully complete a skills test before the endorsement will be issued. An explanation of the skills test, complete with diagrams, is contained in Part I of the motorcycle manual.

You will not be permitted to take the skills test unless the cycle you furnish for this purpose is properly equipped, registered, inspected (if required), insured, and in good mechanical condition. If an applicant fails the skills test a one-week practice period is required before another skills test may be taken.

All applicants applying for a motorcycle endorsement must hold a valid Vermont license. A fee is required each time an applicant takes the written test. There is no charge for the skills test.

Prepare for the Motorcycle License Written Test

The Vermont 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 Vermont motorcycle practice test today!

Required Paperwork

Before you head to the Vermont 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)
• Vermont ID card
• Social Security Number, if issued,
• Documents from a court of record
• Marriage certificate
• Proof of Vermont vehicle registration and liability insurance on all vehicles you own.

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.