Motorcycle License in Arkansas

Have you always wanted to experience the beauty of the Natural State while enjoying the freedom of riding a motorcycle? If so, keep reading for information on getting your Arkansas motorcycle license.

New to Arkansas?

If you've just moved to Arkansas with an out-of-state motorcycle license or endorsement, visit your local AR Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) Office of Motor Vehicle (OMV) revenue office to transfer it to an AR license.

You may have a limited amount of time to do this, depending on your residency status:

  • Non-residents: After living in the state for more than 6 months.
  • Residents: Within 30 days of establishing residency.

When you transfer your out-of-state license, present the OMV with:

  • Proof of legal presence in the United States.
  • Documents proving your identification.

Transferring a Suspended or Expired License

If your out-of-state license is expired—or if it has been suspended—you may need to retake certain exams.

If it has been expired for:

  • Over 31 days —You'll need to pass the written and vision exams.
  • Over 1 year—You must pass the written, vision, AND road exams.

Eligibility for AR Motorcycle Licenses

Depending on your age, you may be restricted to applying for a certain type of Arkansas motorcycle license.

  • Class MD license: 14 years old to 16 years old.
    • Allows you to drive a motor-driven cycle displacing 250 cc or less.
    • License expires when you turn 16 years old.
  • Motorcycle Bicycle (MB) certificate: 14 years old to 16 years old.
    • Allows you to ride a motorized bicycle displacing 50 cc or less.
    • License expires when you turn 16 years old.
  • Class M license: At least 16 years old.
    • License allows you to drive any type of motorcycle that displaces more than 250 cc

Getting Your AR Motorcycle License

To get your Arkansas motorcycle license, you'll need to pass the required exams and provide the necessary documentation at your local OMV location.

The first half of the licensing process consists of getting your motorcycle permit, and the second half involves practicing and proving your skills on a motorcycle.

Arkansas Motorcycle Permits

Before you can get any type of motorcycle license, you first need to get an instruction permit.

In order to get your motorcycle permit in Arkansas, you'll need to:

  • Provide required proof of identity.
  • Pass the:
    • Written knowledge exams*.
    • Vision test.
  • Pay the required motorcycle license fee (see below for details).

You'll need to head to your local ASP troop testing location with documents and fees in hand to take the required tests. Your motorcycle permit will be valid for 1 year and cannot be renewed.

*NOTE: Everything you need to know to pass the written knowledge exams can be found in the Arkansas motorcycle manual and general driver's manual. We also recommend taking a couple online practice tests to get yourself familiar with the testing format... you can even test yourself while waiting at the DMV to take your actual exams!

AR Motorcycle License

Now that you have your Arkansas motorcycle permit, you can practice for the on-road licensing test. The road skills exam*, also administered by the Arkansas State Police (ASP), will test your ability to:

  • Communicate with other drivers.
  • Choose the safest and clearest path.
  • Make smooth turns and stops.

For a complete idea of what to expect during the motorcycle road test, check out the Arkansas motorcycle manual.

When you feel confident on your bike, visit your local State Police troop testing station to begin the application process. Keep in mind—in Arkansas, you can waive the road skills exam if you successfully complete a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Rider Course. See our motorcycle education courses section below for details.

Once you've passed the road test OR given the State Police proof that you've completed an MSF course, the ASP examiner will give you a certificate of completion.

Take the following to your local Arkansas Revenue office:

Congratulations, you're now officially licensed!

*NOTE: Applicants for both Class M and Class MD licenses must pass a road test.

AR Motorcycle Education Courses

As mentioned above, the Arkansas OMV allows you to forego the motorcycle road skills test if you take the approved, Motorcycle Safety Foundation Rider Course.

You must provide the Arkansas State Police tester with the certificate of course completion within 90 days of finishing the MSF class in order to waive your on-road skills test.

Find out more about Motorcycle Safety Foundation classes and register to take a safety course on their Arkansas website.

License Fees for AR Motorcycles

Fees for motorcycle license vary in Arkansas. For the most recent and accurate information about Arkansas motorcycle license fees, contact the DFA's Driver Services at (501) 371-5581.

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