Applying for a West Virginia motorcycle license is the only legal way a rider can operate a two-wheel motor vehicle in the state. All new riders should pursue a permit before applying for a motorbike license in order to learn important safety techniques. However, understanding the process of acquiring a motorcycle permit is the first step toward safe riding.

All new riders should understand the eligibility requirements that must be met in order to apply for a license. For instance, the motorcycle license age minimum for riders to apply is a critical requirement. Additionally, understanding the motorcycle tests that are mandatory in West Virginia will help a rider further along in the process of obtaining a license. To learn about motorbike licensure and testing, continue reading below.

What is a West Virginia motorcycle endorsement?

A motorcycle endorsement in West Virginia is added to an existing driver’s license in order to indicate that the driver has already completed the necessary steps to legally operate a motorbike. In order to earn an endorsement on a motorcycle license, an applicant must:

• Be at least 16 years of age.
• Pass a written knowledge test.
• Pass a motorcycle driving test either at the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or through a motorcycle education course.

Motorcycle Permit Requirements in West Virginia

A motorcycle permit in West Virginia is an important tool for beginning riders. Acquiring a permit means that the rider has passed the written knowledge test and understands the basics involving safety and motorcycle techniques. The permit for a motorcycle is the first step that riders take in order to continue pursuing their full legal licenses.

West Virginia Motorcycle Permit Rules and Restrictions

New motorbike riders will wonder, “What does a motorcycle permit allow you to do in West Virginia?” The permit for a motorcycle will help riders understand the necessary safety rules of the road, but also prepares them for a license. The permit will have limitations, however, in order to ensure the best parameters for learning how to ride.

The restrictions in having a WV bike permit include only being able to ride on public roads during daylight hours and not having any passengers on the bike. Riders who break the rules of a permit will be at risk for losing their permits and potential license privileges. The permit will be valid for at least 90 days, and a rider will need to have a permit for at least seven days before applying for a license.

How to Get a Motorcycle Permit in West Virginia

A motorcycle permit in West Virginia will be granted once an applicant completes the written knowledge test. In addition to successfully completing the written course, a rider will also need to visit the WV DMV and bring proof of identity, state residency and pay the necessary permit fees. Once all motorbike permit requirements are completed, the DMV will issue a permit.

West Virginia Motorcycle License Requirements

Once a rider completes the necessary testing or permit requirements, he or she will be eligible to pursue a DMV motorcycle license in West Virginia. However, before applying for the license of a motorcycle, it is important that the rider meets the license eligibility requirements. A rider must not only meet the minimum motorcycle license age of 16, but also:

• Pass the road skills exam, either through the DMV or a third-party program.
• Visit the DMV office.
• Bring a West Virginia driver’s license
• Provide proof of motorcycle skills test completion.
• Pay the appropriate licensing fees.

How to Get a Motorcycle License in West Virginia

Knowing where to get motorcycle license applications in West Virginia is only part of the licensing process. There are two different documents that can be applied for in order to legally operate a motorbike in WV: a motorcycle endorsement or a motorcycle-only license. The endorsement can be added to any existing WV driver’s license, which will allow a driver to operate a motor vehicle but also a motorcycle. The motorcycle-only license will restrict a driver to only be able to operate a motorcycle. Once a driver decides which license he or she prefers, then he or she must:

• Visit the local DMV office.
• Bring WV driver’s license (if applicable).
• Bring the motorcycle permit.
• Provide proof of motorcycle skills completion.
• Pay the necessary licensing fees.

Getting a West Virginia Motorcycle License as a New Resident

New residents in West Virginia will have 30 days to transfer any out-of-state licenses. To transfer the out-of-state license over to a West Virginia motorcycle license, the process will be the same as transferring over a regular driver’s license.

Required Motorcycle Classes in West Virginia

Drivers will be able to take motorcycle classes in West Virginia in order to earn their licenses. Anyone can enroll in the course for motorcycle safety, from beginners to those looking to brush up on their motorcycle techniques. Anyone enrolled in an approved motorcycle safety course can waive the DMV skills test, as long as he or she successfully passes a basic rider course and already has his or her permit. The minimum age for a safety course is 16 years old.

West Virginia DMV Motorcycle Test Details

Outside of the motorcycle safety courses, there are two types of tests for a motorcycle license in West Virginia that must be completed: the written test and the driving test. Each test will cover a different area of motorcycle riding and safety, both equally important.

Motorcycle Written Test

The motorcycle written test in West Virginia will cover different aspects of motorcycle safety and road legalities. The written exam for motorcycles will require the driver to successfully answer questions and achieve a minimum passing score. The type of questions asked will range, in order for the driver to demonstrate that he or she understands basic motorcycle riding and safety.

Motorcycle Road Test

The motorcycle road test in West Virginia allows the driver to physically demonstrate that he or she can operate a motorbike. A few areas that the road test will cover include:

• Stopping.
• U-turns.
• Swerving around obstacles.
• Quick stopping.
• Curving.

Once the road skills test is passed, a driver can then visit the DMV to acquire a license.

Do you need a motorcycle license to drive a scooter in West Virginia?

If a motor scooters capacity is less than 50 cubic centimeters piston displacement (50cc), than the driver will not need a legal license.

Other Vehicles

Drivers operating any all-terrain vehicle (ATV) will not need to have a West Virginia motorcycle license.

West Virginia Motorcycle License Costs

The motorcycle license cost in West Virginia will range, depending on the type of license. For example, the permit fees will be less than the license fees. Additionally, for those wondering, “How much does it cost to get a motorcycle license?” the fees will become higher if using a private, third-party safety course program.

The basic costs for motorcycle licensure include:

• Permit: $5
• Endorsement: $7.50 plus $1 fee for each remaining year the driver’s license is valid.
• License: $2.50 for each one year the license is valid.

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