How to Get Your Virginia Motorcycle License
Who doesn’t enjoy having a leisurely ride along Virginia Beach or any of its breathtaking attractions on your motorcycle? However, even if you own the best starter motorcycle in the market, all that excitement will have been for nothing if you don’t have a motorcycle license. If it’s your first time getting a license or you’re new to the area and just moved in from a nearby state, then you need to apply for a motorcycle license or transfer your endorsement respectively. Here’s what you need to know to obtain your Virginia motorcycle license.
VA Motorcycle Endorsement Eligibility
To qualify for a motorcycle license in Virginia, you must be over 15 years and six months old to apply for a permit. Any applicant under the age of 18 is also required to undergo a complete driver’s education program. You also need to pass a motorcycle knowledge test so you can earn your permit. After that, you only need to take a motorcycle skills test and pay the applicable fees.
The state of Virginia has its own Rider Training Program, which you can enroll to skip out on the permit process and DMV testing as long as you’re at least 19 years old.
Virginia Motorcycle Permits
Now, before you get hyped and take your motorcycle out for a spin, you must first learn how to ride properly. Again, you can skip this step when you enroll in the state’s motorcycle rider training program. Otherwise, you need to earn a motorcycle permit by visiting your local DMV office and fulfill the following requirements:
- Pass a vision exam.
- Complete a motorcycle knowledge test.
- Pay the motorcycle permit fee.
The DMV is also in charge of administering a knowledge test that includes questions from the Virginia Driver’s Manual and the Virginia Motorcycle manual, both of which are required readings if you really want to pass the test.
Permit Limitations
While earning your permit is great and all, however, you have to be aware of the permit’s limitations. This permit is merely a step toward getting your license, and there are certain rules in play during this stage.
While practicing with your permit, you must:
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Be under the supervision of someone who:
- Is at least 21 years old.
- Has a motorcycle license holder.
- Accompanies you on a separate motorcycle.
- Wear an approved helmet.
- Have on the proper eye and face protection.
- Drive between 4 a.m. and 12 a.m. only.
Now, you’ll only be able to take your VA motorcycle skills test after having the permit for a certain amount of time. You need to wait 30 days in particular if you’re 18 years old and above, and nine months if you’re below 18.
VA Motorcycle Skills Test
The final leg of your license application is taking the skills test. If you decide on the DMV testing route, you can do this by visiting the nearest DMV customer service center that offers on-road motorcycle testing. Make sure to bring your helmet with you, your permit, a pair of safety goggles, and don’t forget your motorcycle with a valid license plate.
Conclusion
Having your own motorcycle to drive around is a great feeling, but nothing beats being able to ride with a Virginia motorcycle license. Follow the steps above and make sure you get your license before even thinking about taking out your bike for a ride.
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