New York Motorcycle Licensing
Motorcycle License Endorsements, Permits, Training & Insurance
The content below is for informational purposes only and was last updated in April 2026. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and the New York State Motorcycle Operator’s Manual.
Operating a Motorcycle in New York
The DMV manages motorcycle permits and licenses throughout the state. To legally operate a motorcycle in New York, you have to get a motorcycle learner permit, followed by a motorcycle operator’s license (Class M) or a motorcycle junior operator’s license (Class MJ).
How to Get a New York Motorcycle Permit
If you want to obtain your learner permit, follow the below process:
- Make sure you satisfy the age requirement.
- Make an appointment at a DMV office.
- Bring your permit application, proofs of identity, age and residence, and the application fee to the DMV office.
- Pass the written test.
Once you pass the written test, you will be provided with a temporary permit at the DMV office. You will receive your permit within two (2) weeks via mail.
Motorcycle Permit Restrictions
New York requires different permit restrictions for various locations in the state. Please consult the DMV for permit restrictions applicable to New York City, Upstate New York and Long Island. If you’re under the age of 18, you’ll also want to look into the restrictions and requirements applicable to Class MJ permits
Getting a Motorcycle License in New York
Once you receive your learner permit, you will need to pass a road test to get your motorcycle license, unless you’re able to waive it. The DMV suggests that you practice for at least 30 hours on a motorcycle before you schedule your road test. The DMV also advises that you should have at least ten (10) hours of practice in medium-to-high volume traffic before you schedule your road test.
Waiving the Road Test
To waive the road test, you must satisfy the below conditions:
- Be at least 16 years old
- Have a valid NY license (Class A, B, C, D, DJ or E)
- Have a valid Class M or MJ motorcycle learner permit
- Present a course completion card for a motorcycle safety course given by the New York State Motorcycle Safety Foundation
Taking the Road Test
If you’re under 18 years old and receive your learner permit, you have to wait at least six (6) months before you schedule your road test. Bring the following items to your road test:
- Licensed and registered vehicle to perform the road test
- Photo learner permit
- Glasses or contacts, if your permit indicates you need corrective lenses
- Original Pre-licensing Course Certificate or Student Certificate of Completion if you do not already have another license type
- Certification of Supervised Driving completed by your parent or guardian if you are under 18 years old
- Properly operating, registered and inspected motorcycle
- Properly operating, registered and inspected motor vehicle and a driver with a valid driver license to transport the license examiner during your road test
- Driver over 21 years old with a valid license to operate the test vehicle
What Happens Once You Pass the Road Test?
Once you pass the road test, the examiner will provide you with a temporary motorcycle license. If you don’t have another class of New York driver license, you will get your motorcycle license with your photo via mail within two (2) weeks.
If you already have another class of New York driver license, you have to wait seven (7) days and then apply at a DMV office for your Class M or MJ license to be added to your existing driver license. Your Class M or MJ license will expire on the same date as your existing driver license.
Motorcycle Registration & Inspection
Unlike most other motor vehicles, motorcycles are registered for only one (1) year in New York, instead of two (2) years. All motorcycle registrations expire on April 30 each year, so your registration is valid only until the next April 30.
Motorcycles must also be inspected at least once every 12 months at a station licensed by the DMV to perform motorcycle safety inspections. These stations can be identified by a yellow and black sign which states, “Official NYS Motorcycle Inspection Station.”
Motorcycle Insurance Requirements
In New York, you cannot legally operate a motorcycle on a public road or highway if it is not insured. Interestingly, if you terminate your motorcycle liability insurance, you don’t have to surrender your license plate.
This is helpful for New Yorkers who want an easier process for getting their motorcycle back on the road after winter storage. However, in no way does it authorize New Yorkers to operate their motorcycle on a public road or highway without liability coverage being in effect.
Motorcycle Safety
All motorcyclists and passengers in New York must wear the following items:
- Helmet approved by the United States Department of Transportation; and
- Approved eye protection, even if the motorcycle has a windshield
The DMV also recommends using approved goggles or a face shield for full protection.
Next steps
By now, you should have a solid understanding of how to obtain a New York motorcycle license — from license requirements to rider safety and insurance information.
If you’re a new rider or a new resident shopping for motorcycle insurance, click here or call 833-70-RIDER to get a quote in minutes, and make sure you have the right coverage before hitting the road.
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 New York DMV requires motorcyclists to have current coverage that meets the state’s minimum requirements on all registered vehicles. Before riding in New York, 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.
Want to find out more about motorcycle coverage requirements in other states?
