Virginia Motorcycle Licensing
Motorcycle License, Training & Insurance
The content below is for informational purposes only and was last updated as of March 2026. For the most up-to-date information, please consult the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or the Virginia Motorcycle Operator Manual.
Operating a Motorcycle in Virginia
To legally operate a motorcycle in Virginia, you must:
- Hold a valid driver’s license with a Class M designation. If you are learning to operate a motorcycle, you can obtain a motorcycle learner’s permit.
- Title and register the motorcycle.
- Display appropriate motorcycle license plates.
- Wear approved protective helmet, and either a face shield or safety glasses, or the motorcycle must have an approved windshield type.
Getting a Virginia Motorcycle License (Class M Endorsement)
Virginia offers two paths to obtaining your Class M license:
Path 1: Pass DMV Knowledge & Skills Tests
- Hold a motorcycle learner’s permit for 30 days. Applicants under the age of 18 must hold the permit for nine (9) months.
- Pass the required vision screening.
- Pass the motorcycle knowledge exam.
- Pass the motorcycle road skills exam.
- Once you have passed all required exams, visit a DMV customer service center to have the Class M endorsement added to your valid driver’s license.
Path 2: Pass a Virginia Rider Training Program
- Pass the required vision screening.
- Take and pass the Virginia Rider Training Program.
- If you are under the age of 18, you must hold a motorcycle learner’s permit for nine (9) months.
- Upon completion, you will receive a Course Completion Certificate.
- Bring your Certificate of Completion to a DMV customer service center and apply for the motorcycle endorsement to be added to your driver’s license.
Motorcycle Education & Safety Training in Virginia
The Virginia Rider Training Program offers several course options:
- Basic Rider Course (BRC): For beginners, ages 16 and up. Course consists of approximately five (5) hours of learning, often via an online eCourse, followed by 10 hours of on-motorcycle training over the course of two (2) days.
- BRC2: For riders who have a permit or motorcycle license and possess basic motorcycle skills. Couse consists of only riding exercises and utilizes a series of drills to reinforce existing skillset.
- Advanced Rider Course (ARC): One-day course that builds on basic skills and helps with personal risk assessment to improve overall riding.
Training programs typically include:
- Motorcycle control techniques
- Street-riding strategies
- Braking & cornering skills
- Hazard avoidance
- Helmet and gear education
Insurance Requirements
Virginia requires minimum liability coverage for all registered vehicles. All riders should keep proof of insurance in their vehicle at all times. The liability insurance policy minimum limits are:
- $50,000 for injury or death of one person
- $100,000 for injury or death of two or more people
- $25,000 for property damage
Disclaimer: This article has been provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is based on the most reliable information available as of the date of publication. Motorcycle laws are subject to change. For legal guidance and to ensure you have the most up-to-date information, please consult qualified legal counsel or your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles.
The VA DMV requires motorcyclists to have current coverage that meets the state’s minimum requirements on all registered vehicles. Before riding in Virginia, make sure your coverage meets the state’s requirements.
To make sure you have the right coverage at the right price, come see what Rider can do for you.
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