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

Getting your motorcycle license in Michigan is a straightforward process, but there are a few important steps you need to follow. Whether you’re a new rider or just looking to make things official, here’s everything you need to know about obtaining a motorcycle endorsement in Michigan.

Step 1: Basic Requirements

Before you can apply for a motorcycle endorsement in Michigan, you’ll need to meet a few basic qualifications:

• Age: You must be at least 16 years old to apply. If you're under 18, you’ll need to complete a motorcycle safety course (more on that below).
• Driver’s License: You must already hold a valid Michigan driver’s license (Class D).

Step 2: Take a Motorcycle Safety Course (Recommended)

Michigan highly encourages all riders, especially new ones, to complete a Motorcycle Safety Course. In fact, if you’re under 18, it’s mandatory. These courses are a great way to get hands-on experience and learn safe riding skills from certified instructors.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Where to Find Courses: Michigan’s Motorcycle Safety Program offers courses at various locations across the state. You can find a list of approved providers on the Michigan Department of State (MDOS) website.
• What to Expect: The course includes both classroom instruction and practical, on-the-bike training. You’ll learn everything from basic riding techniques to advanced safety maneuvers.
• Completion Benefits: If you successfully complete the course, you’ll receive a waiver for the riding skills test at the Secretary of State’s office, which means you won’t have to take the road test later. Plus, many insurance companies offer discounts for riders who have completed the course.

Step 3: Apply for a Temporary Instruction Permit

If you want to practice riding before taking your road test or if you just want to get a feel for riding without the full endorsement, you can apply for a Temporary Instruction Permit (TIP).

Here’s how it works:

• Eligibility: You must be at least 16 years old and have a valid Michigan driver’s license.
• Apply at the Secretary of State: Visit any Secretary of State branch office to apply for your TIP. You’ll need to bring your driver’s license and pay a small fee.
• Pass the Written Test: You’ll have to pass a written knowledge test that covers basic motorcycle safety and operation. The questions are based on the Michigan Motorcycle Operator Manual, so it’s a good idea to study that ahead of time.
• Permit Restrictions: With a TIP, you can ride a motorcycle but with a few restrictions:
  • You can only ride during daylight hours.
  • You cannot carry passengers.
  • You cannot ride on highways with speed limits over 55 mph.

The TIP is valid for 180 days, giving you plenty of time to practice before taking your skills test.

Step 4: Take the Road Skills Test (If Needed)

If you didn’t take the Motorcycle Safety Course (or if you’re over 18 and opted not to), you’ll need to take a road skills test. Here’s how you can prepare:

• Schedule a Test: You can schedule your road test through a third-party testing organization. These are authorized by the state, and you can find a list of them on the MDOS website.
• Bring Your Own Motorcycle: You’ll need to provide a street-legal, properly registered, and insured motorcycle for the test.
• What the Test Covers: The road test evaluates your ability to control the motorcycle, follow traffic rules, and perform various maneuvers, such as turning, stopping, and swerving to avoid obstacles.

Step 5: Get Your Motorcycle Endorsement

Once you pass the road test (or if you have the waiver from the safety course), it’s time to get your motorcycle endorsement! Here’s how:

• Visit the Secretary of State: Head back to the Secretary of State office with proof that you passed the skills test (or your course completion certificate if applicable).
• Pay the Endorsement Fee: There is a small fee to add the motorcycle endorsement to your license.
• Receive Your Endorsement: Your driver’s license will be updated to include the “CY” endorsement, which allows you to legally ride motorcycles on Michigan roads.

Particularities and Exceptions

• Helmet Law: Michigan has a unique helmet law. If you’re over 21, you can choose to ride without a helmet, but only if you carry at least $20,000 in first-party medical benefits on your insurance and have either had your motorcycle endorsement for two years or completed a safety course.
• Under 18 Requirements: If you're under 18, you must complete a motorcycle safety course, and you can only apply for a TIP with parental consent.

Getting your motorcycle endorsement in Michigan is a straightforward process that can be tailored to your needs. If you’re a new rider, taking a safety course is highly recommended for both the skills you’ll gain and the road test waiver. Whether you choose to practice with a TIP or go straight to the endorsement, Michigan makes it easy to get out on the road safely and legally. Just make sure to follow the proper steps, and you’ll be ready to hit the open road on two wheels!