It is common knowledge that most states require you to get a motorcycle license before you can start driving your motorcycle publicly.
This is because getting a license can show that you are capable enough to drive a motorcycle around other people.
The main thing which holds a lot of people back when getting a motorcycle license is the entire process itself. Since the process varies for each state, there is no universal process people can follow.
For that reason, I will tell you how to get a motorcycle license in Michigan to clear up some issues. This is quite simple when you break it down, as all you have to do is apply for a motorcycle permit, pass a few tests, and then be eligible to get your license.
It may seem complicated at first, but with the help of this article, you should be able to get all the necessary things you need to get yourself a motorcycle license.
To make the entire experience go as smoothly as possible, you should read this article till the end.
Motorcycle License Requirements In Michigan
You should have a firm idea of the laws of your state if you want to get a motorcycle license. This is because each state has different requirements regarding the age and documents of a person.
Knowing Your Age
Age plays a huge role in getting a motorcycle license. Depending on your age, you must get specific documents and submit them to the DMV office when applying for your motorcycle license.
Age 16 – 17
You must be 16 years old to apply for a motorcycle license. Here is what you will need to submit:
- Proof of Social Security Number
- Proof of your legal presence in the United States. This can be done via a birth certificate, a passport, a driver’s license, or a residence card.
- Proof of identity, with a state-issued driver’s license or an ID card.
- Two forms of residency proof for example – a utility bill and a credit card bill. Bank statements will work as well.
- You will have to provide written consent signed by your parents as well.
Age 18 And Above
For people who are above the age of 18, you will need to provide the following set of documents to get started:
- Proof of Social Security Number
- Your legal presence in the United States using a passport, a driver’s license, or a residence card.
- Proof of identity, with a state-issued driver’s license or an ID card.
- Your marriage license, any court order for a name change, and a military ID card can be provided.
- Residency proof such as; a utility bill and a credit card bill. Bank statements will work as well.
Types Of Motorcycle Licenses
There is only one license that the state of Michigan offers to motorcycle riders. This is because you will need to apply for one on your way to get a motorcycle license.
This makes getting a license a lot easier as there is only one type that you can get. To provide accurate information, I will also talk about learner’s permits here.
Learner’s Permit
If you want to get a head start and practice for your motorcycle tests, then a learner’s permit is just for you.
This license allows you to ride a motorcycle even though you are under aged. An adult must accompany you at all times, and the adult should have a legal motorcycle driving license.
M Class Motorcycle License
If you are 18 and above, then this is what you should be going for. You may pick up a learner’s permit before getting it, but the motorcycle license is the end goal.
This allows you to drive your motorcycle on public roads without restrictions. You do not need a partner and are not restricted by timing.
How To Apply For Your Michigan Motorcycle License
Now that you have all the relevant information needed to begin the process, you can finally get started in getting the license.
Here is how you can get a motorcycle license in Michigan.
Step 1: Get A Driver’s License
- You must be 18 years old to get a driver’s license. Along with being a specific age, you must also get a legal and valid driving license.
- This will involve going to the DMV and applying for a driver’s license.
- You will then have to present various documents that the state requires.
- You will then have to pass a vision and a written test to get a temporary license. Using this license, you can practice driving on the road.
- Once you have all your practice, you can go straight to the road test.
- Once you have passed that, you should be set to get your driver’s license.
- You will have to pay the fees for the license and all the tests.
Step 2: Testing For Your Motorcycle License
You must pass a series of tests to get your motorcycle license. Without any delay, let’s get right into them.
1. Vision Test
Simple and easy to understand, you must have 20/40 vision to pass this test. If you fail this test, you can get your eyes checked, wear glasses or contacts and retake the test; however, fees will still apply.
2. Motorcycle Written Test
The written test will check your knowledge of the laws of the state. You will be assessed on the specific requirements for the motorcycle to be driven and the safety equipment laws.
Your knowledge of drinking, drugs, motorcycles, emergency handling and defensive driving will also be tested. You will have to pass the test by answering 20 out of 25 total questions.
3. Motorcycle Road Test
Moving on to the road test, you will have to apply all your knowledge of motorcycle riding on a public road or a course.
You will be asked to display a set of skills and, depending on your skill assessment, be allowed to pass the course. These skills include accelerating, sudden stopping, swerving, and U-turns.
Step 3: Collecting Your Paperwork
Once you have passed all the tests, you can return to the DMV and get all your paperwork.
Make sure all of your documents are in order and that they are all accounted for. Be sure to also fill out any forms or surveys the office worker provides you.
Step 4: Go To Your Local Driver’s License Office
Now that all the steps have been completed, you will have to return to the office and pay all the fees.
Once you have paid for all the tests and the license, you will be given a temporary license. Your permanent license will be sent to your house within 1 to 2 weeks.
Ways To Get A Motorcycle Endorsement In MI
If you want to apply for a motorcycle endorsement, you will be happy to know that all of the steps are similar to the ones above. I will briefly highlight them for your convenience.
Step 1: Apply For An Endorsement
Step one is always going to the DMV and applying for a license. You will have to submit all necessary documents and then wait to be processed before proceeding to your motorcycle tests.
Step 2: Take All Of The Tests
You will be asked to carry out the written and road tests mentioned above. You can also be asked to retake the vision test. I have explained all of these tests in detail, so review them again.
Step 3: Pay The Fees
Once all the tests have been completed, you will have to pay for their fees and then the fee for the endorsement itself. With that, you should be able to get your motorcycle endorsement without any issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How Long Will It Take To Get A Motorcycle License In Michigan?
If you get a temporary motorcycle license, you will have 180 days to take the tests and get a motorcycle license.
This is for processing purposes and because it will be sent to you via mail.
You can complete the entire process in a day, but you will have to wait for 1 to 2 weeks to receive your motorcycle license.
Q2: How Much Will It Cost To Get A Motorcycle License In Michigan?
You will have to pay a $25 fee for your motorcycle license. This is not on top of the various fees you will have to pay for your test or your motorcycle safety course.
A motorcycle endorsement costs $13.50 and has a renewal cost of $5. Make sure to bring a good amount of cash to avoid payment issues
Q3: Should I Have A License To Ride A Motorcycle In Michigan?
You need to have a motorcycle license while riding publicly in Michigan. This is the law and is required in virtually all states.
If you are not a licensed motorcyclist, riding your motorcycle on public roads is committing a crime. If you do not have your license in your possession, that can also get you in trouble.
Conclusion
It is easy to see why the people of Michigan struggle to get their motorcycle licenses. The structure of the entire process is not well defined, which is why many people do not know when they should take a specific test or not.
That being said, once you take the time to understand the entire process, you can easily figure out what you need to do to get a motorcycle license.
This article should also make it easier for you to manage your documents and learn how to get a motorcycle license in Michigan.
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.
