Get Ready for Your California Motorcycle Permit Test

You’ve always admired motorcycle riders as being more independent and able to feel the environment as they drive. You’re eager to join their ranks and have decided to get a motorcycle permit. Here’s what you need to know.

• You can apply for two types of motorcycle licenses. M1 allows you to drive any kind of motorcycle, including scooters. With M2, you can also drive a bicycle with a motor, a moped, or a motorized scooter.
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• If you haven’t obtained a Certification of Completion of Motorcycle Training, you must pass a knowledge and skills test at a local field office. For knowledge, you’ll be tested on information from the California Motorcycle Handbook, available from the Department of Motor Vehicles. For skills, you’ll be asked to identify the parts of your vehicle, demonstrate your ability to drive slowly and with gear shift, and go through serpentine and circular paths.
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• You must complete a DL44 or DL44C form and pay the required fees. You must also meet DMV vision standards.
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• The DMV will take your fingerprint and photo.
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• If you’re 15 ½ to 17 years old, you need the signature of your parent or guardian. If you’re also aged 15 ½ to 20, you must have had an instruction permit for at least six months. Although not required, the DMV encourages those 21 and over to take the motorcycle safety course. The course is mandatory for those who are under 21.

How to Prepare for the Motorcycle Permit Test

Studying is easy. All you need to do is download the manual and read it. Then, try a few practice tests before taking the real one. The test covers several questions, including:

1. How often should you check your hydraulic fluid?
2. When should a pre-ride inspection occur?
3. How do you approach a curve?
4. When is a side stand not dangerous?
5. What is the best way to avoid crashing?
6. How should you choose a lane position?
7. When should you adjust your mirrors?
8. Where is the fuel supply valve?
9. When going around a curve, you should look where you want to go by turning what?
10. What happens when you do not keep your wrists flat when starting?
11. How should your handlebars be adjusted?

To operate a motorcycle on public roads, you must possess a valid California driver’s license with a motorcycle endorsement. Passing the California motorcycle permit test is as easy as 1 2 3 using our online interactive California motorcycle permit practice test. Please note that the study for this license test is completely FREE.