Virginia · Motorcycle Endorsement Knowledge Test

Virginia Motorcycle Endorsement Practice Test 2025

Prepare for your Virginia motorcycle endorsement knowledge test with free practice questions based on the official Virginia Motorcycle Operator Manual. The Virginia DMV requires all motorcycle riders to obtain a motorcycle endorsement or a separate motorcycle license. Pass the knowledge test at a Virginia DMV customer service center, then complete the road skills test — or waive the skills test by completing an approved MSF Basic RiderCourse (BRC).

Test at a Glance

Total Questions
25
Questions to Pass
20
Passing Score
80%
Helmet Law
Required — all riders
Lane Splitting
Not legal
Based On
Virginia Motorcycle Handbook (2025)
Official HandbookStart Full Practice Test

Official source: Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles

About the Virginia Motorcycle Endorsement Knowledge Test

The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires all motorcycle operators to hold a motorcycle endorsement on their standard driver's license, or obtain a separate Class M motorcycle license if they do not have a standard license. To earn the endorsement, applicants must pass a 25-question motorcycle knowledge test at a Virginia DMV customer service center with a score of at least 80% (20/25 correct). After passing the knowledge test, applicants receive a motorcycle learner's permit and must pass a road skills test — or waive the skills test by completing an approved MSF Basic RiderCourse (BRC). The BRC is offered throughout Virginia through community colleges and private riding schools.

Virginia has a universal motorcycle helmet law: ALL riders and passengers on a motorcycle must wear a DOT-approved protective helmet at all times. There are no age or experience exceptions to Virginia's helmet requirement — it applies to every motorcycle operator and every passenger on Virginia roads. Riders must also wear face shields or goggles for eye protection unless the motorcycle has a windshield. Virginia's universal helmet law is strictly enforced and violations result in fines.

Virginia's hands-free law (Virginia Code §46.2-818.2, effective January 1, 2021) applies to motorcycle operators. Riders may not hold a wireless communication device while riding. Hands-free Bluetooth earbuds, intercom helmet systems, or a device mounted to the bike and operated by voice command are permitted. Virginia's DUI threshold applies to motorcyclists: 0.08% BAC for adults 21+, 0.02% for under-21 riders. A DUI conviction while operating any motor vehicle — including a motorcycle — results in the same penalties and has the same impact on the motorcycle endorsement.

Virginia Motorcycle Endorsement Knowledge Test — Sample Questions

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Answered: 0/12Score: 0/12 correct
1

Virginia's helmet law for motorcycle riders requires:

2

What is the advantage of taking an MSF Basic RiderCourse (BRC) in Virginia?

3

Virginia's hands-free law (§46.2-818.2) applies to motorcycle operators:

4

In Virginia, the proper technique for braking on a motorcycle is:

5

When riding in a group in Virginia, the recommended formation is:

6

What is the most important factor in preventing intersection crashes for Virginia motorcyclists?

7

Virginia's DUI BAC limit applies to motorcycle operators at:

8

When making an emergency stop on a motorcycle in Virginia, you should:

9

Alcohol affects a motorcycle rider's ability primarily by:

10

When making a turn on a motorcycle, you should:

11

Which part of the body is injured in the greatest percentage of fatal motorcycle crashes?

12

When riding at night, which of the following is most important?

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These are a sample of questions from our full test bank.

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Frequently Asked Questions — Virginia Motorcycle Endorsement Knowledge Test

How do I get a Virginia motorcycle endorsement?

Pass the 25-question motorcycle knowledge test (80%) at a Virginia DMV customer service center. Then complete the road skills test at a DMV location — or waive the skills test by completing an approved MSF Basic RiderCourse (BRC). Present your BRC completion card at a Virginia DMV to receive the Class M endorsement on your license.

Does Virginia have a universal helmet law?

Yes. Virginia requires ALL motorcycle operators and passengers to wear a DOT-approved helmet at all times. There are no age or experience exceptions. Riders must also wear a face shield, goggles, or have a windshield. Violations result in fines. Virginia's helmet law applies to mopeds and other two-wheeled motor vehicles as well.

Can I take a Virginia motorcycle test with a learner's permit?

Yes. After passing the motorcycle knowledge test, Virginia issues a motorcycle learner's permit that allows you to ride under certain restrictions. You must then pass the road skills test or complete a BRC to receive the full motorcycle endorsement. The learner's permit is valid for 12 months, giving you time to practice before the skills test.

What MSF course waives the Virginia motorcycle skills test?

The MSF Basic RiderCourse (BRC) is the primary course that waives the Virginia road skills test for the motorcycle endorsement. The BRC is available at community colleges, private riding schools, and military installations throughout Virginia. Upon completion, you receive a completion card to present at a Virginia DMV to receive the Class M endorsement.

What eye protection is required for Virginia motorcycle riders?

Virginia requires motorcycle riders to wear a face shield, goggles, or a windshield-equipped motorcycle for eye protection. Sunglasses alone do not satisfy the eye protection requirement in Virginia. A DOT-approved helmet with an integrated face shield provides both head and eye protection. Eye protection prevents wind, debris, and insects from impairing your vision at speed.

What documents do I need to bring to the Virginia DMV for my motorcycle knowledge test?

For the motorcycle knowledge test in Virginia, 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 Virginia DMV website before your visit to confirm current requirements, as they can change.

How long is the Virginia motorcycle permit valid, and can I ride alone with it?

Motorcycle learner's permit validity varies by state, typically ranging from 90 days to 2 years. With a permit in Virginia, 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 Virginia DMV website for specific permit restrictions and validity periods in your state.

Is a motorcycle endorsement required in Virginia, or is it a separate license?

The structure varies by state. Some states, including Virginia, 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.

What types of motorcycles require a motorcycle license in Virginia?

In Virginia, 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 Virginia DMV's specific definitions. Electric motorcycles and e-bikes are subject to separate regulations based on their maximum speed and motor output.

Does completing a motorcycle safety course waive the skills test in Virginia?

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. Virginia 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.

Practice Tests in Nearby States

Moving or testing in a neighboring state? These motorcycle tests follow similar rules — start with your region.

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