Riding a motorbike can be a great hobby and a convenient way to travel. However, it may be impossible to have such experiences without a license. A motorcycle license gives a rider the legal mandate to operate a motorbike.
Riding a bike without this document may earn you a term in jail or penalties from the authorities. Below, take a look at of what it takes to get a motorcycle license.
Be Eligible
Countries and states have different categories of people who are eligible for a motorcycle license. Most states require riders to be 18 years and above to hold an unrestricted license.
However, individuals who are the age of sixteen can have a provisional license.
Foreigners should have a valid license from their country or an instruction permit to operate a motorcycle.
If you do not have either of the two, you will need to provide proof of identification and age before processing a motorcycle license.
Take a Motorcycle Course
Before acquiring a license, a rider must undergo training. Training gives the rider an opportunity to get acquainted with the road, the different motorbikes, and the traffic rules. Investing in good gear and a good insurance cover helps in case of an accident.
However, training enhances a rider’s knowledge and skills, which reduces the risk of accidents since a rider will know how to maneuver and take caution while on the road. While on the road, the rider may get involved in an accident due to another driver’s carelessness.
It is vital to get a motorcycle accident lawyer to ensure that you get compensation in case of such an occurrence. A rider should also consider furthering their training to learn the behaviors and attitudes of other road users. Deeper exposure and mastery of the skill make it easier for a rider to pass the license examination.
Undergo Tests
Motorcycle tests may vary from one state to another. However, you must do a written and a road test to gauge your understanding of motorcycle driving.
Written Test
This test will measure your understanding of road usage, pedestrian laws, state laws, safety procedures, and motorcycle terminologies. Passing this test is the first gateway to earning a motorcycle license.
A visit to the department of motor Vehicles (DMV) in your local area is essential. At the DMV, you will get such necessary information that will allow you to prepare adequately for the tests.
Road Test
We recommend you practice before you take the road test. In a formal setting, the commercial driving school is responsible for supervising you while on the road. In a non-formal setting, you must have a licensed driver within 1.4 miles range to supervise you while driving.
During this stage, you need to drive during the day without any passengers. Some states may need to see a record of the number of supervised hours while practicing. Enquire from the local DMV to know what is required of you during the practice sessions.
Medical and Vision Screening
It is essential to keep the roads safe for everyone using them. For this reason, the licensing body requires that motorists should not have any condition that may endanger them or any other road users.
Before acquiring a license, one should meet the set medical standards. During the registration, the rider will answer some questions regarding their health.
The answers are documented in a file that contains the name, date of birth, description of the medical condition if any, address, and a signature.
In some cases, a simple vision exam is given to determine how far a rider can see. If you use spectacles, ensure that you wear them during screening.
One is required to have a vision of 20/40 or better before they can acquire an unrestricted license. Individuals who do not meet this threshold will have a license that has a restriction. As a result, they are required to wear contact lenses or glasses while riding.
Bottom Line
Even with a standard driving license, you need to have a motorcycle license to ride a motorcycle in most states.
Since the laws may differ in various states, you need to familiarize yourself with your local laws. Good practice and payment of necessary licenses fees will help you in your quest for a motorcycle license
