Illinois Motorcycle Licensing
MOTORCYCLE LICENSE, PERMITS, TRAINING & INSURANCE IN ILLINOIS
Operating a Motorcycle in Illinois
The Illinois Secretary of State (ILSOS) manages the Department of Vehicle Services, which is responsible for issuing motorcycle permits, licenses, and endorsements.
Motorcycle Classifications in Illinois:
- Class L: Motor-driven cycles with less than 150cc displacement.
- Class M: Any motorcycle or motor-driven cycle (including 150cc and above).
All Illinois residents who operate a motorcycle must hold one of the following:
- A valid Illinois motorcycle driver license (Class L or M), or
- A motorcycle endorsement on an existing Illinois driver license.
Exceptions & Special Vehicles
- Mopeds: Riders must have a valid driver license but do not need a motorcycle classification if the moped meets Illinois’ four-part definition.
- Out-of-State Riders: Visitors with a valid motorcycle license from their home state or country may ride legally in Illinois.
- Rental Riders: You must present a valid driver license with the proper motorcycle classification to rent in Illinois.
Click here for more information.
Requirements to Operate a Motorcycle
To ride legally in Illinois, you must:
- Be at least 16 years old (for both motor-driven cycles and motorcycles).
- Obtain a motorcycle instruction permit or license (Class L or M).
- Register your motorcycle with the Illinois Secretary of State.
- Maintain the state’s minimum insurance coverage.
Illinois Motorcycle Permit Instructions
Motor-Driven Cycle Instruction Permit (under 150cc)
- Available at 16 or 17 years of age with completion of driver education and a written test.
- Valid for 24 months.
- Restrictions:
- Daylight riding only.
- Must be under the direct supervision of a licensed Class L rider (age 21+, 1+ years of experience).
Motorcycle Instruction Permit (150cc or more)
- Available at 16 or older.
- Restrictions:
- Daylight riding only.
- Must ride under supervision of a licensed motorcycle operator (age 21+, 1+ years of experience).
- Riders under 18 must complete an Illinois Department of Transportation (“IDOT”) Motorcycle Rider Education Course before obtaining a permit.
How to Get an Illinois Motorcycle License
Class L License (Motor-driven cycles under 150cc)
- Complete any required exams (written and/or driving) or demonstrate completion of a motorcycle training course approved by IDOT.
- Meet any identification and residency requirements.
- Pay any required license fees.
Class M License (Motorcycles 150cc+)
- Complete any required exams (written and/or driving) or demonstrate completion of an IDOT motorcycle training course.
- Meet any identification and residency requirements.
- Pay any required license fees.
- Riders 16–17 years of age must complete an IDOT Motorcycle Rider Education Course, in addition to any required exams. A J09 restriction will be applied to the rider’s license to indicate that they have an “M” classification.
- Riders 16+ years of age who have a valid Illinois driver’s license and have completed the IDOT Motorcycle Rider Education Course do not have to complete the required writing or driving exams.
Motorcycle Education & Safety Training in Illinois
While not mandatory for all riders, Illinois strongly encourages training through the Illinois Cycle Rider Safety Training Program.
- Free courses offered statewide to any Illinois resident 16 or older who holds a valid motorcycle license or permit.
- Allows successful program graduates (18 or older) to waive the driving and written portions of the Illinois motorcycle license test.
- Courses teach fundamental skills, defensive riding, and safety practices.
- Qualifies some graduates for insurance discounts.
Find an Illinois Cycle Rider Safety Training Program near you.
Illinois Motorcycle Insurance Requirements
Like all vehicles, motorcycles in Illinois must carry liability insurance. Proof of insurance is required for registration, and failure to maintain coverage can result in fines and license suspension.
✅ Next Step: If you’re a new rider or new to Illinois, you now know how to get started with permits, licenses, and endorsements. And don’t forget—before you hit the road, make sure your motorcycle is properly insured. Click here to get a quote.
Sources:
https://www.ilsos.gov/content/dam/publications/pdf_publications/vsd271.pdf
https://www.ilsos.gov/content/dam/publications/pdf_publications/dsd_x140.pdf
https://www.ilsos.gov/departments/drivers/basicfees.html
https://www.ilsos.gov/departments/drivers/drivers-license/drlicid.html#motorcycle
https://www.ilsos.gov/departments/vehicles/mandatory-insurance.html
Disclaimer: The materials available at this web site are for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. You should review the links within this article, or contact the relevant state agency, for complete and current information.
The Illinois SOS requires motorcyclists to have current coverage that meets the state’s minimum requirements on all registered vehicles. Before riding in Illinois, 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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