When you apply to hop in the saddle and shoot off on a motorcycle, you will be attempting to obtain a Class 2 license. The process is similar to the procedures for getting a regular driver's license in many ways. But when it comes the testing phase, things are considerably different.

Top Requirements for a Hawaii Motorcycle License

Age

If you are 18 years of age or older, you may apply for a motorcycle license without jumping through too many hoops. Just pass the battery of tests in the order they are presented (see below), and you will be experiencing the thrill and enjoyment of motorcycle riding in no time.

Hawaii requires those under the age of 18 to build skills through a graduated licensing system prior to receiving full driving privileges. If you are already undergoing the three-tiered licensing program to get a driver's license, you will just need to add a few more tests (and another permit) in order to also obtain a motorcycle license.

It can get a little confusing, especially if you are trying to accomplish everything at once. Just make sure you look over the Motorcycle Manual, and if you are still confused as to the steps you need to take, call a local licensing office and speak to an examiner

Identification

A first-time applicant will need to present two forms of identifying documents. One must show evidence of your legal age and name. The other must confirm that you have a Social Security number.

• Acceptable documents for proving your name and date of birth:

• Hawaii state ID card

• United States passport

• Certified birth certificate

• Military ID card

• Alien registration card

• United States immigration or naturalization papers

• Out-of-state driver's license with photo (even if expired)

• Acceptable documents for proving your Social Security number:

• Social Security card (the real thing, not a copy)

• Driver's license with the number posted on it

• Military ID card or DD-214

• Medical ID card

• W-2 tax form

Top Testing Requirements

Vision

You must pass an eye exam with a minimum score of 20/40 and a total field of vision of 70.
Failing to meet this standard will forfeit any movement to the next stage of testing. You will need to visit an ophthalmologist for corrective lenses before taking the test again.

Sign and Road Marking Identification

Although the written general knowledge test has plenty of sign identification questions, you will also be tested separately as part of the eye exam. What the test measures is how you view color, while also allowing you to establish your understanding of basic road signs and markings.

Written Exam

If you are applying for a Class 2 license and do not already hold a Class 3 license for cars, you will be required to take the normal general knowledge test along with a motorcycle-specific exam. Having a Class 3 license at the time you apply for a motorcycle license may exempt you from the general knowledge test, but it usually comes down to examiner discretion.

Both tests are multiple choice, and the material for the questions is culled from the respective manuals. A score of 80% is deemed passing. Once you achieve success on each of these tests, you will be issued a temporary learner's permit that is valid for one year.

On-Road Skills Test

This is an assessment of your ability to handle a motorcycle on a closed course through a series of specific tests. The simulated settings are designed to evaluate proficiency in the following skills:

• Sharp turn

• Normal stop

• Cone weave

• Quick stop

• U-turn

• Obstacle turn

To get a bird's-eye view of how each course is set up and a thorough explanation of how each skill is appraised, consult the Motorcycle Manual.

Top Motorcycle Safety Education Program

One way to completely avoid the stress of an on-road skills test is to enroll in the state's motorcycle safety program. Receiving a certificate of completion allows you to circumvent the watchful eye of the license examiner as you wobble and roll through the course. Plus, you will become a more experienced, safe, and confident rider in the long run.

The courses are offered through the University of Hawaii and are available on Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island (in Hilo).

There are two courses available:

Motorcycle Rider Course: Riding and Street Skills: This class is designed for the greenhorn. It consists of 10 hours in the classroom and 14 hours either on or working with the bike, which is provided in the cost of tuition. The fee is $200.

Experienced Rider Course: If you already hold a Class 2 motorcycle license and have been riding for a year or more, this class is the perfect opportunity to take your riding dexterity to the next level. In this case you will use your own bike and spend only four hours in the classroom and five hours either on or around the machine. The fee is $100.

Basic Requirements for Enrollment

• For those taking the beginner's class, having basic balance is necessary. If you are an avid bicyclist, you should be fine. If you haven't been on the banana seat since second grade, you may have some difficulty adjusting.

• You must provide evidence of health insurance.

• Those under the age of 18 do not need a temporary permit to enroll in the class, but they will need the permission of a parent or guardian.

• You must bring your own gear, including boots, full-fingered gloves, jeans, and a long-sleeve shirt.

For more information, see the FAQs.

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