Motorcycle testing
You must complete a total of 4 tests to get your endorsement: 2 knowledge tests, and 2 riding skills tests.
How to take the tests
- Take a motorcycle safety course. It will include the knowledge and riding skills tests.
- Or, you may take the knowledge and riding skills tests at any motorcycle training school.
Permit Knowledge test
The permit knowledge test measures how well you understand:
- The rules of the road.
- How to safely operate your motorcycle.
Sample permit knowledge test questions
1. Passengers should:
- Lean as you lean.
- Hold on to the motorcycle seat.
- Sit as far back as possible.
- Never hold onto you.
2. The FRONT brake supplies how much of the potential stopping power?
- About 1/4
- About 1/2
- About 3/4
- All of the stopping power
3. To swerve correctly:
- Shift your weight quickly.
- Turn the handlebars quickly.
- Press the handgrip in the direction of the turn.
- Press the handgrip in the opposite direction of the turn.
4. If a tire goes flat while riding and you must stop, it is usually best to:
- Relax on the handle grips.
- Shift your weight toward the good tire.
- Brake on the good tire and steer to the side of the road.
- Use both brakes and stop quickly.
5. The car is waiting to enter the intersection.
It is best to:
- Make eye contact with the driver.
- Reduce speed and be ready to react.
- Maintain speed and position.
- Maintain speed and move right.
Permit riding skills test
The permit riding skills test measures your ability to operate a motorcycle legally and safely.
During the permit riding test, you'll be expected to complete the following tasks:
Motorcycle Skills Test: Part 1, Cone Weave and Normal Stop (5 min, 49 sec)- Motorcycle Skills Test: Part 2, Turn from a Stop and U-Turn (5 min, 18 sec)
- Motorcycle Skills Test: Part 3, Obstacle Swerve (4 min, 12 sec)
- Motorcycle Skills Test: Part 4, Quick Stop (4 min, 34 sec)
- Motorcycle Skills Test: Part 5, Curves (4 min, 31 sec)
Endorsement knowledge test
You must complete both permit tests before you can take the endorsement tests.
The endorsement knowledge test consists of 50 questions. It measures your understanding of:
- Cornering
- Decision-making skills
- Hazard management
Make sure you study the Motorcycle Operator Manual closely.
Endorsement riding skills test
Take time to practice for the endorsement riding skills test before attempting it. It is assessed on a pass/fail basis. During the endorsement riding skills test, you must complete the following tasks:
- A quick stop performed at approximately 20-25 mph.
- A timed figure 8 element that will assess left and right cornering skills.
Please ask your training school for details about the endorsement riding test (demonstration videos coming soon).
Can I use my personal vehicle for training and testing?
Yes. If you want to use your motorcycle, sidecar, trike, or scooter you'll need to meet these requirements:- A current registration and license plate for the vehicle.
- A current motorcycle endorsement or motorcycle permit.
- You must wear the minimum protective equipment including:
- A helmet compliant to US DOT requirements.
- Eye protection (glasses, goggles, or faceshield) unless the vehicle has a windshield.
