Many California residents consider riding two-wheel vehicles for daily transportation or leisure, but not everyone realizes there are specific requirements for legally operating these vehicles. California offers different types of motorcycle permits that determine what kind of vehicles a person can ride on public roads. These permits are regulated by the state DMV and are crucial for anyone considering becoming a rider.

Understanding which permit fits an individual’s needs is essential before hitting the road. There are unique distinctions between the available types that impact where and what someone can legally ride. This knowledge is also important for safety, as the requirements are designed to protect both riders and others on the road. For those who may have suffered incidents, being informed about accident legal help can be valuable.

Staying informed about the correct permit not only ensures compliance but also allows individuals to enjoy the road responsibly. Future riders will benefit from understanding how the different options affect their riding experience, helping to prevent unnecessary penalties and keeping everyone safer.

Types of Motorcycle Licenses Available in California

California provides several types of permits for individuals who wish to operate motorcycles on public roads. Each license type is specific to certain vehicles and levels of permitted use.

M1 License: The M1 license allows individuals to operate any two-wheeled motorcycle, as well as motor-driven cycles and motorized scooters. Holders of this permit can drive both standard motorcycles and those with engines of 150cc or higher.

M2 License: An M2 license restricts individuals to operating motorized bicycles, mopeds, and certain less powerful scooters. With this permit, they cannot legally ride traditional motorcycles.

Class C Driver’s License: Those holding a standard Class C license may operate three-wheeled motorcycles or those with a sidecar attachment without needing an M1 or M2 endorsement. This license does not extend to two-wheeled motorcycles.

License Type

What It Allows

M1

All two-wheeled motorcycles, scooters, and motor-driven cycles

M2

Mopeds, low-power scooters, and motorized bicycles

Class C

Three-wheeled motorcycles and motorcycles with sidecars

These distinctions help ensure each motorist obtains the correct credential for their type of vehicle.

What You Need to Get an M1 or M2 License in California

To apply for an M1 or M2 motorcycle license in California, individuals need to meet a set of clear requirements. These criteria differ slightly depending on age.

For applicants under 18:

  • Must be at least 15½ years old

  • Hold an instruction permit for at least 6 months

  • Complete a California Motorcyclist Safety Program training course

  • Pass a vision exam

  • Pass a written test

For individuals 18 and over:

  • Provide a completed application

  • Show proof of identity and residency

  • Complete a vision screening

  • Pass a written knowledge test

  • Schedule and complete a motorcycle driving test (the skills test may be waived for those who provide a Certificate of Completion from an approved safety course)

A fingerprint scan and photo are required at the time of application. Fees for the permit and license must also be paid.

The California DMV’s official requirements guide outlines these steps. The process is structured to help ensure applicants can safely operate a motorcycle on public roads.

Quick Comparison Table

Requirement

Under 18

18 and Over

Minimum Age

15½

18

Safety Course

Required

Strongly encouraged

Instruction Permit

6 months min.

Optional

Vision and Written Tests

Yes

Yes

Skills Test

Yes (unless waived)

Yes (unless waived)

How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in California

Applicants must first choose between the Class M1 or Class M2 permit, depending on the type of motorcycle or motor-driven cycle they intend to operate. The process can be started at any California DMV field office that offers license services.

Here are the general steps to follow:

  1. Complete a Driver License or Identification Card Application (DL 44).

  2. Pay the required application fee.

  3. Provide proof of identity and legal presence.

  4. Get fingerprinted and photographed.

  5. Pass a vision test.

  6. Take and pass the written motorcycle knowledge test.

If the applicant is under 21, they must also finish a motorcycle rider training course approved by the California Highway Patrol and present a DL 389 form to the DMV. For those 21 and older, the training course is recommended but not mandatory.

Test Information Table

Test Type

Required for All Ages

Additional Details

Written Exam

Yes

Focuses on safe riding practices

Rider Training

Under 21

Mandatory by law

Skills Exam

Sometimes

May be waived with course

After all requirements are fulfilled, and the written test is passed, individuals will receive a permit. The permit allows practice under certain restrictions, such as no freeway usage and no passengers.

Motorcycle Insurance Requirements Under California Law

Anyone operating a motorcycle in California must have insurance that satisfies state standards for liability coverage. This is a legal prerequisite and not optional.

California law sets minimum insurance limits for all motorcycle riders, which are as follows:

Coverage Type

Minimum Amount (January 1, 2025)

Bodily Injury (per person)

$30,000

Bodily Injury (per accident)

$60,000

Property Damage

$15,000

These minimums are established to help cover the costs if the rider causes injury or property loss to others. Insurance policies must at least meet these amounts to comply with state law.

Additional coverage options are available beyond the basic requirements. Many individuals choose higher liability limits, as well as coverage for theft, vandalism, or collision-related damage.

Proof of valid motorcycle insurance must be shown when registering a motorcycle or if requested by law enforcement. Riding without required coverage can lead to fines, registration suspension, or even impounded vehicles.

Penalties for Riding Without the Required Motorcycle Insurance

Riding a motorcycle without the necessary insurance in California brings several legal repercussions. Law enforcement can impose fines, suspend licenses, and even seize vehicles, depending on the situation. These penalties can quickly add up and have lasting effects on a rider’s driving record.

Common Penalties Include:

  • Monetary penalties (often several hundred dollars or more)

  • Suspension of driving privileges

  • Impoundment of the motorcycle

  • Potential additional court costs

Failing to provide proof of insurance matching these requirements can result in immediate consequences.

Violation

Possible Sanction

No insurance at time of stop

$100–$500 fine

Repeat offense

Higher fines or suspension

Accidents without insurance

License suspension, higher fines, vehicle impoundment

In some situations, the motorcycle may be taken by law enforcement, adding storage and release fees to the initial penalty. Failing to maintain proper coverage also means the rider is personally responsible for damages in any crash.

Long-term effects may include increased rates for future coverage or difficulty obtaining coverage at all.