Motorcycle License Requirements in Delaware

Any person who operates a motorcycle, motorbike or any other 2-wheeled, motor-driven vehicle on the highways of Delaware must have a motorcycle driver’s license or a motorcycle endorsement.

The Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) provides information and resources to help you obtain your motorcycle license. You can find detailed information on their website: http://www.dmv.de.gov/

Basic Requirements for the License

To apply for a motorcycle endorsement, an applicant must already have a Class D license and should get a motorcycle permit. New applicants over 18 years old must complete the following requirements to get a motorcycle permit:

  • Complete application form submitted in-person to the DMV office.
  • Have your picture taken and give a thumb print.
  • Pay the required fees.
  • Pass the vision test.
  • Pass the written examination and road skills test.
  • Set an appointment to write your examination by calling your local DMV office.

Road Skills Test and Written Examination

  • Written Examination: This test assesses your knowledge of traffic laws, road signs, and motorcycle safety practices.
  • Road Skills Test: This test evaluates your ability to safely operate a motorcycle in a controlled environment.

Requirements for Applicants Aged 16-18

In addition to the requirements given above, new applicants for motorcycle driver’s license who are between 16 and 18 years old must:

  • Provide a parent or guardian’s signature on the form.
  • Present proof that you have successfully completed a driver’s education and driver training.
  • Present your current driver’s license.
  • Present proof of birth date and legal status documentation.
  • Provide your true full name and social security number.

Restrictions While Holding a Temporary Permit

After you completed the aforementioned prerequisites, you will be given an instruction permit that is valid for 60 days. It can be extended once for a similar period before its validity will totally expire. This permit will allow you to practice driving a motorcycle in preparation for the road skills test. These are the restrictions you have to follow when operating a motorcycle with a temporary motorcycle learner’s permit:

  • No passengers are allowed on the motorcycle.
  • You are not allowed to operate a motorcycle between sunset and sunrise.
  • Must wear the approved safety helmet and eye protection gear.
  • No operation is allowed on the federal interstate highway system.
  • You can take the motorcycle road test anytime after 10 days but within 60 days at the DMV office where you received your permit.

Taking the Road Skills Test

The actual road test is given at any DMV offices in Delaware that offer the motorcycle endorsement. The road examination will test your motorcycle safety skills and driver aptitude. If you were not able to handle the motorcycle then you will be given a chance to retake the test after you have practiced more. Get a Motorcycle Operator’s Manual and study about turning, following distances, speed, and braking. Once you completed the entire test, then you will be issued a new motorcycle driver’s license or your motorcycle endorsement. You will renew your motorcycle endorsement at the same time that you will renew your Delaware driver’s license.