The process for obtaining a motorcycle (Class M) license in Maryland looks a little different depending on how old you are, whether or not you take a safety course, and whether or not you’ve had a license before. Here are the basics for how to get a motorcycle license in MD.
If You’re Under 18
If you’re under 18, you’ll need to complete the Maryland Motorcycle Safety Program’s Basic Ride Course from a training center before you can apply for a motorcycle license. Once you complete the course, you’ll need to visit an MVA office and complete the application process, which will include submitting the certificate of completion for your motorcycle safety course. Then you’ll receive a license valid for six months, with a $9 annual fee.
If You’re Over 18
If you’re over 18 and have some experience riding motorcycles, you won’t need to take a safety course before applying. But if you do take a safety course, you can skip some of the application steps: you won’t need to obtain your learner’s permit, take a knowledge test, or take a skills set.
Assuming you don’t complete the Maryland Motorcycle Safety Program, you’ll need to apply for a Class M learner’s permit and pass the skills test before you can receive your license.
If you have a valid motorcycle license in another state—and it hasn’t expired—you can transfer it to a Maryland motorcycle license. However, you’ll still need to meet the necessary vision requirements. If your out-of-state license expired one or more years ago, then you’ll need to complete the knowledge and skills tests as well.
The fee for a Class M license is $72, followed by a $9 annual fee.
All Applicants
The process for obtaining a motorcycle license in Maryland is similar to that of obtaining a driver’s license. You’ll need to visit an MVA office, fill out an application, show documents, pass a series of tests, and pay a fee.
When you apply for your motorcycle license, you’ll need to bring some documents to establish the following:
- Proof of age
- Proof of identity
- Proof of Social Security Number
- Two proofs of address
Unless you have an exception, the tests you’ll need to take include:
- Vision
- Road signs and markers identification
- Written exam
- Motorcycle skills test
After you’ve completed all the steps and paid the fee, the MVA will mail your motorcycle license to your home address.
MD License Points
Before obtaining your motorcycle license, it’s important to understand the rules of the road. Your license may be suspended or revoked if you are convicted of violating traffic laws.
If you violate a vehicle-related law—like speeding, for example—while on your motorcycle, the MVA will apply points to your driving record. Once a person acquires three or four points, the MVA will send a warning letter. Five to seven points require the license holder to enroll in a Driver Improvement Program. For eight to 11 points, the MVA will suspend your license. And for 12 or more points, your license will be revoked.
Leave a Reply