What Do You Need to Get a PA Motorcycle License?

You must add a Class M endorsement to your driver’s license to legally operate a motorcycle in Pennsylvania. Luckily, the process of getting licensed is relatively straightforward.

Just make sure you follow the steps properly! If you operate a motorcycle without a license in Pennsylvania and you’re involved in a wreck, it could complicate how you pursue compensation. Regardless, if you are hurt in an accident someone else caused, contact our motorcycle accident lawyers at Munley Law to learn more about your legal rights.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your PA Motorcycle License

Obtaining a motorcycle license in Pennsylvania involves these steps:

Age Requirements
You must be at least 16 years old to get a Pennsylvania Class M motorcycle license. If you’re under 18, you must:

• Hold a motorcycle learner’s permit for at least 6 months
• Complete 65 hours of supervised practice riding

Required Documentation

• Proof of identity, age, and PA residency
• Current PA driver’s license (if you have one)
• Valid motorcycle learner’s permit
• Proof of motorcycle insurance
• Current motorcycle inspection sticker
• Licensed motorcycle rider to accompany you (if you don’t have another class of license)

Getting Your License
Obtain a motorcycle learner’s permit ($12)
Choose one of two paths:

• Pass a skills test at a Drivers License Center
• OR complete an approved Motorcycle Safety Program (includes skills test)

Pay licensing fees (total cost for initial permit and 4-year license: $57.50)

Getting Your PA Motorcycle Learner’s Permit

Obtaining your motorcycle learner’s permit involves:

• Required documentation: Complete the motorcycle learner’s permit application form thoroughly. The license center may also require you to provide proof of identity and your current driver’s license.
• Knowledge test preparation: The Pennsylvania Motorcycle Operator Manual offers the info you need to pass the motorcycle knowledge test. You must complete this test before getting a Class M learner’s permit in Pennsylvania. Study the book carefully. You can also enroll in a motorcycle skills course that covers the knowledge test material.
• Permit restrictions: If you don’t have another class of license, even if you have a Class M learner’s permit, you can only ride when a licensed motorcycle operator is supervising and instructing you. With a motorcycle learner’s permit in PA, you can only ride between sunrise and sunset (no nighttime riding), and you can’t ride with any passengers other than an instructor who already has a Pennsylvania motorcycle license.
• Validity period: The learner’s permit is valid for one year.

Injured while riding with a permit? Our motorcycle accident attorneys can help.

Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program (PAMSP)

PAMSP offers free motorcycle training (weather permitting) at locations throughout the Commonwealth. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:

• Course requirements: A valid learner’s permit is required to participate in a course. Additionally, you should be able to properly balance a two-wheeled motorcycle.
• Location options: PennDOT offers an interactive map featuring training locations.
• Free training benefits: Along with not costing any money, completing free PAMSP training waives the skills test requirement.
• What to expect: The specifics of the program will vary depending on what type of course you take. Options include Basic Rider Course (BRC), Intermediate Rider Course (IRC), 3 Wheel Rider Course (3WRC), and Advanced Rider Course (ARC).

Injured during training? Contact us to discuss your legal options.

Skills Testing Requirements and Process

Points to be aware of when getting ready for the skills test include:

• Test components: The motorcycle skills test can vary to some degree on a case-by-case basis. A common version involves riding in three figure-eight patterns within a boxed area, weaving through pylons in a particular arrangement, and finding an opportunity to reach third gear and downshift at least once.
• Common reasons for failure: Common reasons for failing the skills evaluation include not maintaining proper control of the vehicle and not reacting properly to hazards.
• Scheduling your test: Call or visit your local PennDOT driver’s license center to schedule your test.
• Required equipment: Typically, you should bring your own motorcycle to the skills test, along with an approved helmet, eye protection, and gloves.

How License Status Affects Motorcycle Accident Claims

Having a motorcycle license is very important if you’re ever hurt in an accident on a motorcycle. Consider the following:

• Unlicensed riding implications: Without a license, it’s easier for another party to claim your negligence played a role in the accident.
• Insurance coverage issues: Without a license, you can’t get insurance, which limits your means of recovering compensation.
• Legal rights after accidents: Even if you don’t have a license, you may still have the right to file a claim or lawsuit against another driver if their negligence caused a wreck.

Questions about your accident claim? Get a free consultation today.

Insurance Requirements for PA Motorcyclists

The same basic insurance requirements that apply to all motor vehicles in Pennsylvania also apply to motorcycles. Consider the following:

• Minimum coverage requirements: You must have liability coverage of $15,000 for injury to or death of one person in an accident, $30,000 for injury to or death of multiple people in an accident, and $5,000 for damage to another person’s property.
• Optional coverage recommendations: Various insurers may offer optional coverage, like coverage that pays for damage to accessories, coverage that covers the cost of towing, etc.
• Insurance costs: The average cost of motorcycle insurance in Pennsylvania is currently about $311 per month.

Before you ride, make sure you have the right insurance coverage. And if you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, don’t wait to get help. The motorcycle accident lawyers at Munley Law will protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Special Licensing Categories

The following special considerations may apply when you seek a motorcycle license in Pennsylvania:

• Three-wheel motorcycle endorsements: A typical motorcycle license in Pennsylvania also covers three-wheel motorcycles. However, you may not be able to complete the skills test on this type of motorcycle.
• Out-of-state license transfers: You cannot transfer an out-of-state learner’s permit, but you can transfer an out-of-state license. You must do so at a PennDOT driver’s license center within 60 days of moving to Pennsylvania.
• Military considerations: If you have a non-PA license but are an active duty service member currently living in Pennsylvania, your license will remain valid as long as you are still on active duty.

Pennsylvania’s motorcycle licensing requirements can be complex, especially if you’re riding a three-wheeler, transferring from out of state, or serving in the military. Don’t let licensing complications leave you underprotected. The motorcycle accident attorneys at Munley Law understand these unique situations and can help ensure you’re properly covered. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, call us for a free consultation – whether you’re a PA resident, military service member, or new to the state.