Tennessee

Tennessee Motorcycle Licensing

Motorcycle License, Training & Insurance

The content below is for informational purposes only and was last updated as of 4/21/2021. For the most up-to-date information, please visit https://www.tn.gov/.

Operating a Motorcycle in Tennessee

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

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

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

Getting a Tennessee Motorcycle License

According to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, in addition to meeting the requirements necessary to obtain a regular driver’s license, individuals must apply for a motorcycle license to operate a motorcycle. 

Find out how to obtain a Tennessee Class M or Class XM Motorcycle License here.

Motorcycle Education & Training in Tennessee

Motorcyclists should sign up for a motorcycle safety course.  In Tennessee, it is not mandatory to complete a motorcycle safety course to obtain a Tennessee Class M/XM license.  To find a Tennessee Motorcycle Rider Education Program, click here.  The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) website contains operator safety information.

Tennessee 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 Tennessee.  For information about Tennessee insurance requirements, visit https://www.tn.gov/commerce/insurance-division.html.

By now, you should have a good idea about how to proceed in obtaining a Tennessee motorcycle license. If you are a new resident in Tennessee, 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 TN DOCI requires motorcyclists to have current coverage that meets the state’s minimum requirements on all registered vehicles. Before riding in Tennessee, 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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