FREE Practice test for GA MOTO driver's licence - Georgia exam simulation

Select the test you want to start!

All about permit practice tests and MOTO driver's licence in Georgia

To get a motorcycle license in Georgia, the process is fairly straightforward, but it’s important to know all the details to ensure you’re following the right steps. Whether you’re a first-time rider or upgrading from a learner’s permit, here’s a detailed guide on how to obtain your motorcycle license in the Peach State.

1. Basic Requirements

Before applying for a motorcycle license, make sure you meet Georgia’s basic criteria:

• Age: You must be at least 17 years old to apply for a motorcycle license (Class M). If you're younger than 18, you’ll need a parent or guardian's consent and must complete a rider safety course.
• Driver’s License: You don’t necessarily need a standard Georgia driver’s license to get a motorcycle license, but having one simplifies the process.
• Residency: You must be a legal resident of Georgia to apply for a license.

2. Choose Between Two Options

In Georgia, you can obtain your motorcycle license in two different ways:

• By completing a Motorcycle Safety Program through the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS).
• Or by taking the DDS Knowledge Test and the Road Skills Test directly.

Let’s break these down:

3. Option 1: Motorcycle Safety Program (MSF Course)

One of the most popular and recommended ways to get your motorcycle license in Georgia is by completing a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course. Here's why:

• No Testing at the DDS: If you successfully pass the MSF course, you don’t need to take the written knowledge test or the road test at the DDS. Upon completion, you’ll receive a certificate that waives these requirements.
• Learning the Basics: This course is ideal for beginners. It covers all the important safety rules, riding techniques, and basic motorcycle operation skills. You’ll practice in a safe, controlled environment, often on a smaller motorcycle provided by the course.
• Lower Insurance Costs: Many insurance companies offer discounts for completing a safety course, which is another perk of this route.

4. Option 2: Taking the DDS Tests

If you choose not to take the MSF course, you can go directly to the Georgia DDS and take both a written knowledge test and a road skills test.

• Step 1: Get a Motorcycle Learner’s Permit (Class MP)
  • Before taking the road skills test, you can apply for a Class MP Learner’s Permit, which lets you practice riding a motorcycle under certain restrictions. Here’s what you’ll need:
    • Pass a motorcycle knowledge test at the DDS.
    • Pay the permit fee of around $10.
    • Once you have the permit, you’re allowed to ride a motorcycle, but only during daylight hours, and you can’t carry passengers or ride on highways.
    • The learner’s permit is valid for 6 months, and you must hold it for at least 30 days before taking the road skills test for your full license.
• Step 2: Take the Road Skills Test
  • After practicing with your learner’s permit or if you’re ready without it, you can schedule a road skills test at the DDS.
  • This test evaluates your ability to safely operate a motorcycle in real-world conditions. You’ll be tested on things like making turns, stopping safely, maintaining control at low speeds, and obeying traffic rules.
  • Bring your own motorcycle for the test, or make sure to arrange to use one at the testing center. Your bike must be street-legal and pass an inspection before the test begins.

5. Fees

The fees for getting a motorcycle license in Georgia are pretty reasonable:

• Learner’s Permit (Class MP): Around $10.
• Motorcycle License (Class M): About $25, and the license is valid for 8 years.
• MSF Course: Costs vary depending on where you take the course, but typically range from $200 to $300. This cost covers both the course and waiving the DDS tests.

6. Endorsements and Restrictions

• Motorcycle Endorsement: If you already have a Georgia driver’s license, your motorcycle license will be added as an endorsement (Class M) to your existing license. If you don’t have a regular driver’s license, you’ll receive a stand-alone motorcycle license.
• Restricted License: If you’re under 18, your motorcycle license may come with some restrictions. For example, you’ll need to complete a driver’s education course and hold your learner’s permit for at least a year and a day.

7. Insurance and Safety Gear

Once you get your motorcycle license, make sure you have proper motorcycle insurance before hitting the road—it’s mandatory in Georgia. Additionally, Georgia law requires riders to wear a DOT-approved helmet at all times, so invest in good safety gear.

Getting a motorcycle license in Georgia is a straightforward process with two main options: either pass the written and road tests at the DDS, or take an MSF course to waive those tests. Whichever path you choose, make sure to follow Georgia’s laws, practice safely, and enjoy the freedom of riding a motorcycle across the state!