Washington Motorcycle Licensing
Motorcycle License Endorsements, Permits, Training & Insurance
The content below is for informational purposes only and was last updated as of 4/13/2021. For the most up-to-date information, please visit https://www.dol.wa.gov.
Operating a Motorcycle in Washington
In order to operate a motorcycle in the state of Washington you must:
- Meet the state’s minimum age requirement
- Obtain a Washington motorcycle license endorsement (you also need to obtain a learner’s permit)
- Register your motorcycle with the state of Washington
- Obtain insurance coverage that meets Washington state requirements
The minimum age requirement to operate a motorcycle in Washington is 16 years old. For specific motorcycle licensing requirements and restrictions by age group, click here.
Getting a Washington Motorcycle License
According to the Washington State Department of Licensing, in addition to meeting the requirements necessary to obtain a regular driver’s license, individuals must apply for a 2W motorcycle license endorsement to operate a motorcycle.
Find out how to obtain a Washington motorcycle license endorsement here.
Motorcycle Education & Training in Washington
Motorcyclists should sign up for a motorcycle safety course. In Washington, it is not mandatory to complete a motorcycle safety course to obtain a Washington motorcycle license endorsement, unless you are under the age of 18. To find a Washington Motorcycle Training School, click here. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) website contains operator safety information.
Washington Motorcycle Insurance Requirements
If you’re riding a motorcycle, you will have many of the same requirements regarding registration, licensing and insurance as automobile drivers have in Washington. For information about Washington insurance requirements, visit https://www.insurance.wa.gov.
By now, you should have a good idea about how to proceed in obtaining a Washington motorcycle license endorsement. If you are a new resident in Washington, or you are a new rider and you’re shopping for motorcycle insurance, click here to get a quote in minutes.
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 WA DOL requires motorcyclists to have current coverage that meets the state’s minimum requirements on all registered vehicles. Before riding in Washington, 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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