Motorcycle Manual in Massachusetts

SUMMARY: Massachusetts Motorcycle Manual

When you want to learn the specific road rules for motorcycle riders, it's important to carefully read the Massachusetts motorcycle manual. The manual covers key topics, such as the types of vehicles covered in the manual, motorcycle license tests, required equipment, and motorcycle insurance requirements.

MA Motorcycle Manual

Your MA Registry of Motor Vehicles Motorcycle Manual is a comprehensive resource for information you need to know in order to ride on Massachusetts roads. It contains pertinent facts about:
  • Getting your MA motorcycle license.
  • Operation requirements.
  • Equipment guidelines.
  • Insurance requirements.

Continue reading to learn more about what you'll find in your manual.

Types of Vehicles Covered

In Massachusetts, several types of vehicles and their licensing and operation requirements are discussed in the motorcycle manual. These vehicles include the following:

  • Motorcycles.
  • Motorized bicycles.
  • Motorized scooters.
  • Limited use vehicles.

Operation and Licensing Requirements

In addition to the definitions and descriptions of the vehicles listed above, the manual will provide detailed information on:

  • Permit and license requirements.
  • Operation guidelines and rules of the road for these vehicles.

To learn all about these vehicles, steps to get a permit or license, and rules of operation, visit our Massachusetts Motorcycle License page.

MA Motorcycle License Tests

When you go to get a motorcycle license in Massachusetts, you'll need to take both a written knowledge test and a road skills test.

Written Exam

You'll be tested on the information outlined in your manual on the rules of the road for MA motorcycle operators.

To make sure you pass the first time, check out our MA Motorcycle Practice Test.

Road Skills Test

The MA motorcycle manual tells you everything you need to know about what you'll need for your test and what to expect, including:

  • Requirements for your motorcycle on test day.
    • Your bike must be safe, registered, and inspected.
  • Safety standards.
    • You must have a US DOT standard helmet to wear during your exam.
    • You must also wear one of the following IF your bike does not have a windshield or screen:
      • Goggles.
      • Eyeglasses.
      • Face shield.

If you fail to pass your exam after 2 attempts, you must complete a basic riding course approved by the MA RMV before you can schedule another exam.

The road skills exam for vehicle types may vary. Make sure to fully read the instructions for your specific vehicle in the manual before you visit your local RMV office and take the test.

Required Equipment

The RMV's motorcycle manual also provides detailed information on required equipment for motorcycles and other motorbikes.

By reading the manual, you'll find detailed information on the proper types of equipment for motorcycles and motorcycle operators, including (but not limited to):

  • Headlights.
  • Handlebars.
  • Secure seats.
  • Helmets.
  • Face shields.
  • Eye protection.
  • Appropriate clothing.

To be sure your motorcycle or motorbike meets safety and equipment standards, make sure to read your manual thoroughly and check your vehicle against the outlined requirements.

Checklists

In your manual, you'll also find a handy checklist of items to check before you get on the road, such as your:

  • Tires.
  • Lights.
  • Turn signals.
  • Mirrors.
  • Horn.
  • Brakes.

MA Motorcycle Insurance Requirements

The manual also gives information on MA minimum motorcycle insurance requirements. Essentially, you will need to at least hold the following amounts of liability coverage:

  • $20,000 for bodily injury per person.
  • $40,000 for bodily injury per accident.
  • $5,000 for property damage.

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