Motorcycle laws are important because they help to ensure the safety of motorcyclists. Motorcycles normally have less protection as compared to cars.
By requiring that all motorcycle drivers have a license, states can ensure that only those with proper training will be driving these vehicles.
Each state has a different law, and in this article, I will inform you how to get a motorcycle license in Massachusetts.
The first step is to get a permit. Next, you need to clear some tests, and then finally, you can get your hands on your own motorcycle license.
Getting a motorcycle license is never an easy procedure. States have made sure that the process is not entirely straightforward.
What I told you above is a very trimmed-down version of what you must do. To read more about getting a license, I suggest you read this article.
Motorcycle License Requirements In Massachusetts
The first step of getting a motorcycle license in Massachusetts, or any other state for that matter, is to know about the requirements.
As expected, this section will discuss them with you, so you can know whether you are eligible for one or not.
Knowing Your Age
There are two different age groups when it comes to getting a motorcycle license in the state of Massachusetts.
One is that minors come in, while the other is for adults. Let’s see what requirements they need to meet.
Age Under 18
- If you are under the age of 18, then the first thing is that you should not be younger than 16.
- 16-year-old people are eligible for a motorcycle license but are still considered minors.
- The second thing to note is that to earn a license from the state; you need to be a state resident.
- You cannot hold residence proof from another state and expect to receive a motorcycle license in Massachusetts.
- Another thing is that you should not have a driver’s license or even a learner’s permit that another state has granted you.
- The same is the case with any other state in the US.
- People must also be able to meet the minimum medical standards, ensuring they are fit to be on the road.
- Finally, the state will also ask for consent from your parents or guardians because they need to be aware of the risks of riding a motorcycle, which people at such a young age may not be.
Age 18 Above
When it comes to 18 and above, the people that fall under this category are indistinguishably adults.
They know all the risks associated with motorcycle riding and can make their own decisions. So, they need to meet these requirements.
- They should be residents of the state.
- They should not have a license from any other state.
- There should not be any pending action or obligations due from their side to another state.
- Finally, they should meet the medical standards set by the state.
As they are adults, no parental consent form must be signed. So, the requirements are a bit on the lesser side for adults.
Types Of Motorcycle Licenses
There is only one type of motorcycle license in Massachusetts: the M Class License.
M Class License
This license allows you to drive any motorcycle with a seat or a saddle (and not more than three wheels). You’ll need this license if you want to drive any of these:
- A motorcycle.
- A moped.
- Any two-wheeled or three-wheeled motor-driven cycle.
The state has made it incredibly simple, so you don’t have to choose which license will be better suited for you.
How To Apply For Your Massachusetts Motorcycle License
Now, this is the section of the article that many of you have been waiting for.
Here I will be discussing with you all the steps needed and required for you to secure a motorcycle license in Massachusetts.
Step 1: Submit All Documents
Unlike some states that are still not moving ahead with time, Massachusetts has made many steps extremely easy, thanks to an online-based application system.
Not everything will be done on the web, but a major part will be. All of this begins by visiting the website and booking an appointment.
Afterward, you must head to your nearest RMV office with all the important documents.
The most important ones are:
- A document showing US citizenship.
- U.S passport.
- A document confirming that you are a resident of the state of Massachusetts.
- Social security card.
Showing these documents is mandatory. Make sure you take all of them with you, or you must make a trip back home.
Step 2: Testing For Your Motorcycle License
Testing for a motorcycle license is perhaps the most important part of getting one. You are tested mentally and physically to ensure you are fit to ride a motorcycle on the road.
Let’s see what types of tests are deemed compulsory by the state of Massachusetts.
1. Motorcycle Written Test
The written test is taken online and can only be done after paying the $30 permit fee. This one contains 25 questions, out of which you will be required to answer 18 correctly.
This translates to a 72% passing grade, which is lesser than in other states. They require at least 84% or 21 questions to be correctly answered.
You can prepare for the test by reading and memorizing the driver’s handbook and motorcycle manual. They are available online, so you don’t need to go anywhere to buy them.
Moreover, there are also sample tests available, which will allow you to get familiar with the difficulty level of the test.
2. Motorcycle Road Test
Regarding the road test, riders can skip this, but only if they complete a Motorcycle Rider Education Program.
They need to bring proof that they completed it, and they can skip the road test altogether.
Regarding the road test, you will be tested in various scenarios. Your turning, braking, and traffic handling abilities will be assessed.
Make sure you are ready for whatever they throw at you.
Step 3: Pay All Required Fees
I already mentioned that you need to pay the $30 fee for the permit. You may already be done with it because you cannot move ahead if you don’t.
I must admit that getting a motorcycle license in Massachusetts is one of the most expensive processes compared to other states in the US.
When it comes to the full license, you will need to pay $50. That is pretty steep.
Step 4: Wait For Your License
The RMV will mail you your new license within 15 days of completing the course or taking the road test.
Given that you have passed, all you need to do is wait for two weeks. Until then, you are still not allowed to ride a motorcycle and may get a fine.
If for some reason, you don’t get your license within the given time frame, you should contact the nearest RMV office as soon as possible.
Ways To Get A Motorcycle Endorsement In MA
Massachusetts has clarified that if you don’t want a license and want an endorsement instead, that is also possible. For that, you need to submit a few more documents.
Step 1: Provision Of Documents
The first one is obvious: you need a Massachusetts driving license. This license can be of any class.
Next up, you need to get a motorcycle permit. The steps for getting one have been mentioned above. So, in the case of an endorsement, they are the same.
Step 2: Pass A motorcycle Road Test
Now, you need to clear the road test. There is no knowledge test because you will have already given it when you get the permit.
As an alternative, you can also take a Motorcycle Rider Education Program. If you complete it, you can skip the road test.
Step 3: Pay The Fees
After clearing all tests and paying the fees, your driver’s license will get endorsed.
The fee for getting an endorsement is significantly cheaper than an entire license. You only need to pay the $15 fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How Long Will It Take To Get A Motorcycle License In Massachusetts?
The state claims that you will get your license within 15 days. This is less than 30 days, the normal time taken by other states. Make sure to hold on tight and don’t ride while waiting.
Q2. How Much Will It Cost To Get A Motorcycle License In Massachusetts?
If you are talking about the license, the fees are $30 for the permit and $50 for the license. This makes the total $80.
For an endorsement, however, you need to pay $30 and then $15 for the endorsement, bringing the total to just $45.
Q3. Should I Have A License To Ride A Motorcycle In Massachusetts?
Yes, it is mandatory to have a motorcycle license in the state. If it was not a requirement, then Massachusetts would never have implemented giving licenses to its residents.
So, make sure you get one before riding on the road.
Conclusion
Finally, you’ve made it to the end of this guide and are now well aware of how to get a motorcycle license in Massachusetts.
I hope that this guide helped you navigate the process of applying for a motorcycle license as well as what to expect after you receive it.
If you have any questions or concerns, you can always visit this website or visit the state’s website for more information.
Just a heads up, the information over there is not as clearly written as it is over here. I did all the research for you, so you don’t have to.
I am a passionate blogger who wants to spread my interest in motorcycles. Fueled by my love for motorcycles, I provide readers with valuable insights and updates on motorcycles’ informative and engaging topics and document the latest happenings in the biking community. Despite my hectic schedule, I can provide these blogs, which involve regular trips to the gym and sports like mountain biking and BMX. I am usually available most of the time, so be sure to join me on my journey of motorcycles and bikes! I appreciate a quiet and simple life and am always eager to interact with my readers to provide helpful information on my blog site.
