Ohio Motorcycle Licensing
Motorcycle Licensing—Permits, Training & Insurance
The content below is for informational purposes only and was last updated in October 2025. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles.
Operating a Motorcycle in Ohio
To legally operate a motorcycle in Ohio you must hold a valid motorcycle license or endorsement.
- You may apply for a motorcycle-only license if you do not have a valid driver license.
- If you do have a valid driver license, you can add a motorcycle endorsement to your existing license.
Ohio Motorcycle License or Endorsement
Under 18: In order to obtain a license or endorsement, riders under the age of 18 must:
- Pass a skills test.
- Hold a TIPIC for a minimum of six (6) months.
- Complete required driver education at an approved driving school.
- Complete required driving hours, including night driving hours.
- Complete a motorcycle safety education course.
Over 18: In order to obtain a license or endorsement, riders over the age of 18 must:
- Pass a skills test. If any part of the skills test is failed, the rider must wait one (1) week before taking the test again.
- Present a valid TIPIC and wear a helmet and protective eyewear at the time of skills testing.
- Have a street-legal and safe working condition motorcycle.
Waiver: The skills exam can be waived if the rider presents a Motorcycle Ohio Basic Course completion card within 60 days from the date the card was issued. Both individuals under the age of 18 and over the age of 18 are eligible for this waiver.
Registration
- Motorcycles must be registered at a local deputy registrar license agency.
- Riders must present required documentation at the time of registration, including but not limited to:
- Certificate of Title or Memorandum of Title.
- Driver license, state identification or proof of social security number.
Insurance
- Proof of liability insurance is required in Ohio to drive a motorcycle or any other motor vehicle.
- Ohio’s minimum liability insurance requirements are:
- $25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 property damage.
- Failure to maintain required insurance can lead to fines and penalties.
Fees
- Consult the Ohio BMV to determine any fees required to obtain a permit, license and/or endorsement.
Motorcycle Education in Ohio
- The Basic Rider Course is available through Motorcycle Ohio, who administers the course and other rider training across the state.
- The courses aim to provide affordable motorcycle rider training to reduce fatalities and injuries on the roadway through rider education, public information campaigns and licensing improvement.
Next Steps
You now have a clear path to obtaining a motorcycle endorsement or license in Ohio. If you’re a new rider or new to the state, make sure you complete the required course (if applicable), get your endorsement, and verify your motorcycle is insured before riding.
Sources:
Disclaimer: This article has been provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute as legal advice. This article is based on the most reliable information available on 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 Ohio BMV requires motorcyclists to have current coverage that meets the state’s minimum requirements on all registered vehicles. Before riding in Ohio, 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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