Wisconsin Motorcycle Driver’s License

Feel like carving some turns through Bong or Kettle Moraine?  Ah, you might be thinking more of Door County or the Big Lakes tour.

Well, anyone who drives a motorcycle in Wisconsin must have a Class M motorcycle driver’s license or a motorcycle instruction permit.  And in the Badger State, a motorcycle is a motor vehicle that is designed and built to have no more than three wheels. While a moped is a vehicle capable of speeds not more than 30mph, with 50 lb. It could be a bicycle-type vehicle with fully operated pedals or a Type 1 motorcycle with an automatic transmission. A person who wanted to drive a motorcycle must hold a Wisconsin motorcycle instruction permit or surrender a valid motorcycle license from another state in order to obtain a Class M license.

Basic Requirements for the License

A motorcycle instruction permit is one requirement in order to get a motorcycle driver’s license. An applicant of a learner’s permit must pass the motorcycle knowledge test, a sign reading test and vision screening test. For applicants who are under 18 years old, they have to complete the following requirements:

• Be at least 16 years old.
• Have a sponsor
• Provide documents that prove the completion of a Driver Education.
• Provide proof of enrollment or completion of a Basic Motorcycle Rider Course

A motorcycle instruction permit is valid for 6 months but if it expires before the applicant completes the road skills test, the permit can be renewed for an additional 6 months. If the cycle instruction permit has been renewed 2 times already, you need to show proof of enrollment or completion of an approved Basic Motorcycle Rider Course before the renewal of license is allowed. Aside from the instruction permit a person who would like to apply for a motorcycle license in Wisconsin must be at least 16 years old and will need to provide the following:

• Proof of driver education classes and driver’s training behind the wheel hours.
• Existing driver’s license or learner’s permit held for at least six months.
• Have not committed any driving violations for at least six months.
• Documents as proof of residency.
• Pass the motorcycle skills test.
• Provide proof of enrollment and completion of a Basic Motorcycle Training Course.
• Pay the fee.

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Requirements for applicants 18 years old and above

Applicants who are over 18 years old need to apply for a Wisconsin driver’s license, if you don’t hold a cycle license already.  Most riders have both a Class D license and the motorcycle license. To get a license, go to your local DMV office and complete the following requirements:

• • Complete a Driver License/State ID Application.
  • Provide your social Security number.
  • Answer the medical questions on the application.
  • Complete the vision test.
  • Surrender your out-state driver license or identification card if you are a new resident of Wisconsin.
  • Pay your fee.
  • Provide proof of residency.
  • Take a driving skills test or provide proof of completion of a Basic Motorcycle Training Course. (See Wisconsin Motorcyclists’ Handbook.)

Upon the completion of all motorcycle licensing requirements you will be issued a motorcycle driver’s license or motorcycle endorsement.