New York

New York 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://dmv.ny.gov.

Operating a Motorcycle in New York

In order to operate a motorcycle in the state of New York you must:

  • Meet the state’s minimum age requirement
  • Obtain a New Your motorcycle license (you also need to obtain a learner’s permit)
  • Register your motorcycle with the state of New York
  • Obtain insurance coverage that meets New York state requirements

The minimum age requirement to operate a motorcycle in New York is 16 years old.  For specific motorcycle licensing requirements and restrictions by age group, click here.

Getting a New York Motorcycle License

According to the New York Department of Motor Vehicles, in addition to meeting the requirements necessary to obtain a regular driver’s license, individuals must apply for a Class M or Class MJ driver’s license.  To get a motorcycle license, you must first get a motorcycle leaner permit.

Find out how to obtain a New York Class M or Class MJ license here.

Motorcycle Education & Training in New York

Motorcyclists should sign up for a motorcycle safety course.  In New York, it is not mandatory to complete a motorcycle safety course to obtain a New York Class M or Class MJ license.  To find a New York Safety Program training center, click here.  The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) website contains operator safety information.

New York 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 New York.  For information about New York insurance requirements, visit https://dfs.ny.gov.

By now, you should have a good idea about how to proceed in obtaining a New York motorcycle license. If you are a new resident in New York, 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 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?

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