Obtaining a NC Motorcycle License (Older than 18)

Motorcycle riding can be a cost-effective form of transportation as well as an enjoyable hobby, but you'll need to have a valid license before you hit the road.
 
If you are between the ages of 18 and 53, the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) issues motorcycle licenses for eight years. If you are age 54 or older, your motorcycle license will be valid for five years.

And, all you need to do to get one is visit an NC DMV driver license office with the required documents, pass some tests, and pay the applicable fee.

Necessary Documents

The basic documentation requirements to receive a motorcycle license are the same as what is required for any other type of North Carolina drivers license:

• Proof of residency
• Proof of age
• Proof of identity
• Proof of liability insurance
• Social Security card or proof of legal presence in the United States

Motorcycle Tests

There are four tests required to receive a North Carolina motorcycle license. They are:

• Vision screening
• Traffic sign identification
• Written motorcycle knowledge test
• On-cycle skill test, also known as the motorcycle road test

No appointment is needed for motorcycle tests, but the road test portion of the motorcycle test is only given on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at 8:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., if weather permits.

You can find a practice test to help you prepare for the written motorcycle knowledge test in the NC DMV motorcycle operators manual. This manual will tell you everything you need to know about operating motorcycles in NC.

The best way to prepare for the on-cycle skill test is to take a motorcycle safety course, such as the drivers ed and driver training classes offered by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) at community colleges throughout the state.

Motorcycle License Fees

There is a $1.75 per year fee to receive a motorcycle endorsement on a North Carolina drivers license. Please keep in mind that this is in addition to the standard fees for your regular drivers license or CDL.

If you opt for a motorcycle permit that’s valid for 18 months, the fee is $15.

You can pay for your license fees with cash or a check from a bank with a North Carolina branch. Unfortunately, NC DMV offices are not able to accept credit card or debit card payments at this time.