In California, you must be at least 15 ½ years of age to apply for a learner’s permit. How to get a California motorcycle permit for those under the age of 21 M1 or M2 licenses will need to wait in that case. But an M1 will make more bike options available to use in the future.īut if you are under 21, you must get a learner’s permit first. The M1 license will allow you to drive more types of bikes, whereas an M2 is more limited. The application process for both is the same. It is more practical to apply for an M1 instead of an M2. Meanwhile, a Class M2 will enable you to drive a motorized bicycle, moped, or bicycle with an attached motor. Known as Class M licenses, they are divided into M1 and M2.Ī Class M1 license permits you to drive any two-wheeled motorcycle, including those allowed for M2.

So, getting a license here requires you to fulfill more requirements than compared to some other states, like Alabama.ĥ Essential Tips for New Motorcycle Riders Classes of motorcycle licenses in Californiaīefore you start your application process, all motorcycle riders should know that California has two classes of motorcycle licenses. With many motorcyclists, the state is quite strict about avoiding motorcycle accidents. But you can drive a trike (three-wheel motorcycle) or a motorcycle with an attached sidecar using your standard Class C driver’s license.īut before you make your way to the local DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles), it is a good idea to know its requirements. California law states that you need a motorcycle license to ride a motorbike in the state. Even if you already have a regular driver’s license, it needs to have a motorcycle endorsement. With all this, I can imagine why someone would like to own a motorcycle in the state.Īs in all the states, getting a motorcycle license in California involves a trip to the DMV. Moreover, the state is known for its good weather and fantastic tourist spots. Perhaps, this is not a surprise as California is currently the most populous US state. Did you know that California has the largest number of registered motorcycles in the United States? As per, as of 2021, the golden state has 952,977 registered motorcycles.

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