Applying for a CA Motorcycle License (Younger than 18)

Visit the California (CA) Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to apply for your motorcycle license. The DMV is the same office that processes CA driver license applications.

Bring your parents or legal guardians with you to the DMV office. The minimum age to receive a motorcycle riding license in CA is 16 years old. You can apply to receive your motorcycle permit as soon as you turn 15 and a half years old.

Keep the motorcycle permit for at least six months before you apply for your actual license if you are younger than 18. For example, if you apply for your license when you turn 17 years, you must keep the permit until you turn 17 and a half years old before you apply to receive a license.

Steps to Apply for Your California Motorcycle License

Steps you will complete to receive a permit so that you can operate one or more motorcycles include:

1. Complete Drivers License Form 44 (your parents or legal guardians must also sign the form).
2. Provide two forms of identification (i.e. Social Security card, birth certificate).
3. Show proof that you are enrolled in or recently completed the approved motorcycle driver training and motorcycle safety course.
4. Have your vision screened at the DMV office.
5. Take and pass the written motorcycle test (areas covered on the test include traffic laws and signs).
6. Pay the $31 permit/license application fee (permits are good for 12 months).

Information on the test is included in the CA motorcycle handbook. Download a copy of the handbook at the DMV website or pick up a copy at the DMV office. Partner with a friend or relative to take one or more practice test. This will increase your chances of passing the actual examination.

Approved Motorcycle Training Programs

Before you receive your CA motorcycle license, complete the approved motorcycle riding and drivers ed training course. The course is taught by the CA Highway Patrol. Dial (877) 743-3411 to enroll in the training program.

If you successfully complete the course and bring a certificate of completion to the DMV you will not have to take the motorcycle road test.

Schedule your motorcycle road test online at the DMV website or by dialing (800) 777-0133 if you did not take the CA Highway Patrol motorcycle rider training course.

After You Pass the California Motorcycle Test

When you return to the DMV office after you have had your motorcycle permit for six months or longer:

1. Pass the road test (if you did not take the CA Highway Patrol motorcycle rider training course).
2. Have a thumbprint taken at the DMV office.
3. Have your photo taken, too.

The DMV will issue you a temporary motorcycle license. The license is good for 60 days. If you do not receive your permanent motorcycle license at your home address within 60 days, call DMV at (800) 777-0133.