New York Motorcycle License Practice Test (Class M)

The New York motorcycle knowledge test has 20 questions. You must answer at least 14 correctly — a passing score of 70% — to pass.

Yes. New York requires all motorcycle operators and passengers to wear a DOT-approved helmet at all times, with no age-based exemptions. This is one of the strictest helmet laws in the country. Failure to wear a helmet is a traffic violation with fines and insurance penalties.

Yes. Completing an approved Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Basic RiderCourse in New York can waive the DMV road skills test. You must still pass the written knowledge test. The MSF course is strongly recommended for all new riders — it also earns an insurance discount from many insurers.

A Class M license is for riders 18 and older with no restrictions. A Class MJ (motorcycle junior) license is issued to riders 16–17 and comes with graduated restrictions: no passengers, no night riding (9 PM–5 AM), and no expressway driving. Restrictions lift when the rider turns 18.

No. Lane splitting — riding between lanes of traffic — is illegal in New York State. New York Vehicle and Traffic Law does not permit motorcycles to ride between lanes or between traffic and the curb.

For the motorcycle knowledge test in New York, you typically need to bring a valid form of ID (driver's license or ID card), proof of residency (if not already on file), and the application fee. If you are under 18, you may also need a parent or guardian's signature on a minor consent form. Check the New York DMV website before your visit to confirm current requirements, as they can change.

Motorcycle learner's permit validity varies by state, typically ranging from 90 days to 2 years. With a permit in New York, you are generally restricted from riding at night, on highways, or carrying passengers. These restrictions ensure new riders gain experience safely before obtaining a full license. Check the New York DMV website for specific permit restrictions and validity periods in your state.

The structure varies by state. Some states, including New York, add a motorcycle endorsement (typically marked as 'M') to your existing driver's license, while others issue a separate motorcycle license or permit. Either way, you must pass a motorcycle knowledge test and, in most cases, a riding skills test or approved safety course before you can legally operate a motorcycle on public roads.

In New York, a motorcycle license or endorsement is generally required to operate any two-wheeled, three-wheeled, or motor-driven cycle above a certain engine displacement or speed threshold. This includes standard motorcycles, sport bikes, cruisers, and most scooters above 50cc. Mopeds (typically under 50cc, max speed 30 mph) may have different requirements — check the New York DMV's specific definitions. Electric motorcycles and e-bikes are subject to separate regulations based on their maximum speed and motor output.

In many states, completing an approved Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Basic RiderCourse or an equivalent state-approved program waives the DMV riding skills test requirement. Some states also waive the knowledge test for course graduates. New York DMV policies on course waivers vary — check the DMV website or contact them directly to confirm which approved courses qualify for test waivers and whether any age restrictions apply.