How to Get a Georgia Motorcycle License: Most Recent Requirements for a Motorcycle License
You love riding in the open air, just you and your bike, at breezy highway speeds. Or maybe you’re daydreaming about your very first big bike. Whichever it is, first things first: to get on the road, you need motorcycle insurance and a license. But how do you go about actually getting a Georgia motorcycle license?
Read on to learn about the two classes of motorbike licenses in the Peach State and how to get each as easily as driving down the Cohutta-Chattahoochee Scenic Byway, traveling through White, Towns and Union counties, up Woodpecker Trail… you get the idea!
An Overview of the Types of Motorcycle Licenses in Georgia
Let’s start with a very basic description of the vehicles that require a motorcycle license in Georgia. The state defines a motorcycle as motorized transportation on less than four wheels, with at least a 51-cc engine, handlebars, and a saddle for a seat. That definition does not include mopeds and scooters with smaller engines.
The state only has two classifications of motorcycle licenses. You can get a Class M license or a Class MP — a Motorcycle Permit — which is a short-term learner’s permit.
If you’re an experienced motorcyclist and maybe already have your license in other states, you’ll apply for your Class M license. If you’re a newbie, especially if you’re only 16, you’ll start on your MP and then convert it to your Class M license within six months.
As an MP permit holder, there are certain restrictions you won’t have when you get your Class M license. For instance, you’ll only be able to ride your bike during daylight hours, you can’t have a passenger behind you, and you won’t be able to ride on limited access roadways, such as a freeway.
Understanding the Basic Requirements
Are you considering buying your first motorcycle, or are you a seasoned pro? Regardless of which class of Georgia motorcycle license you’re applying for, it’s a must to demonstrate your basic knowledge of safety requirements and rules of the road, as well as skillfully handle a bike. You must also take and pass a vision test unless you’ve already successfully tested your vision for other licensing within the year.
You must have your own bike if you’re applying for a Class M license, but one will be provided for you if you’re applying for your MP. Bring a parent or other adult with you when applying for your MP.
You must also be a U.S. citizen and at least 16 years old to get your permit and at least 17 to get your Class M license. If you’re under 18, you must show proof that you’re in school.
That covers the basics, but now it’s time to dig deeper into the details of how to get a motorcycle license in Georgia.
Required Tests for a Motorcycle License in Georgia
Regardless of the class of license you’re applying for, whether a Class M license in Georgia or your MP license, you’ll need to pass both a knowledge test and a road skills test as part of the Georgia Motorcycle Safety Program (GMSP).
The knowledge test includes two sections: the Road Rules Test and the Road Signs Test. You’ll get a total of 20 questions and must answer at least 15 correctly to pass.
As an M license applicant, you have two ways of taking the road skills test. You can either enroll in the GMSP or go directly to any Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) customer service center and take the Motorcycle Riders Skills Test there.
And finally, you must pass the vision exam mentioned earlier. This test can be waived if you’ve passed an earlier vision test.
Comprehensive Steps to Getting Your Georgia Motorcycle License
Getting your license requires a fair amount of paperwork in addition to the various tests already mentioned. And you must schedule a few appointments.
Start by filling out the online License/ID/Permit information that should be submitted before you visit a DDS customer service center.
You can schedule your Motorcycle Skills Test at a DDS customer service center here. Alternatively, you can schedule your Georgia Motorcycle Safety Program enrollment here.
If you’re under 18, bring proof that you’re attending school to your DDS location. If you’re 16 and applying for a permit, you must meet the prerequisites of Joshua’s Law, a set of educational requirements.
When you go to your DDS appointment, make sure you have all of the paperwork required based on your age and the licensure classification for which you’re applying.
Motorcycle and Safety Laws in Georgia
To ride your bike safely and legally in Georgia, you and your passengers must wear Department of Transportation (DOT)-compliant helmets at all times.
Motorcycle insurance is also mandatory, with liability as minimum coverage. Liability insurance covers the medical expenses and property damages of others if you are found to be at fault for an accident.
Liability is cheaper than other coverage, but it does not cover your own medical costs or property damage, so you may want to add collision and comprehensive benefits. Your independent agent can show you how motorcycle insurance premiums are calculated and help you find the most affordable options to protect your finances.
While it’s not legally required, you’re likely going to want to wear heavy-duty and long-sleeved clothing that can offer you better protection if the bike goes into a slide.
Finally, don’t forget that you will have to observe the same laws and rules of the road on your motorcycle as with a car. This includes never operating your bike under the influence of drugs or alcohol and keeping the machine roadworthy, with brakes that are in good working order and working headlights, taillights, and brake lights.
Get the Best Motorcycle Insurance Without Breaking the Bank
Before you explore the roads, highways, and byways of Georgia, reach out to your Velox Insurance agent. Did you also know we have a team of independent insurance agents who work with multiple carriers? This means that we always find you the best deals and most affordable rates. Call us at (855) 468-3569, or go online for a quick cost quote for coverage. You can also visit a nearby Georgia office at your convenience to meet with an agent in person.
