Motorcycle Accidents

Bronx, Brooklyn, Long Island, Queens, Manhattan, New York City, NY

Motorcycle Licensing in New York: An Overview

Since motorcycling is different than driving a passenger vehicle, New York has a separate type of licensing process to acquire a motorcycle license. The two types of licenses are either the Class M or Class MJ.

Already Have a New York Driver's License

The MV-21MC NYS Motorcycle Operator's Manual is your resource for preparing for the written test. Your local DMV office has paper copies of it, too. The application form is named MV-44.1, which you complete to obtain a learner's permit. Bring this and the $21 fee to your DMV office. Once you pass the written test, you receive your Class M or MJ permit, which is valid for one year. A licensed motorcycle driver 21 or older must accompany you on all rides, staying within mile of you at all times. It is suggested permit holders receive certified motorcycle training and complete at least 30 hours of practice. Ten of those hours should be in busy traffic before scheduling your road test. At test time, you must supply your own registered, pre-inspected motorcycle and an automobile with registered driver to drive the licensing agent.

If you pass, you receive a temporary motorcycle license. After seven days, bring this, your permit, $10 for the fee, and valid driver's license to your DMV to exchange for a permanent license.

Do Not Have a New York Driver's License

You should study the Motorcycle Operator's Manual and the NYS Driver's Manual since you don't have a license. Also, you must complete form MV-44, which is different than MV-44.1. The automobile learner's permit is required before applying for the motorcycle permit. Once you receive the Class M or MJ permit, the same supervision rules apply as those mentioned above. Since this is your first license, you must complete a certified Driver Education course before applying for a motorcycle license as well. The next step is scheduling a road test.

If You Have a License From Another State

To trade your license for a NYS motorcycle license, fill out form MV-44. At the DMV, you surrender your license, show proof of identity and date of birth, and the DMV will calculate your fee. You'll receive a temporary license, with your official one arriving by mail in roughly three weeks.

If you live in the New York City area and want to know more about your rights as a motorcyclist, please contact the motorcycle accidents attorneys at Silberstein, Awad & Miklos, P.C. today.

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