Like many states containing large swaths of mountainous topography carved with a latticework of winding roads, Wyoming is exceptionally popular with the leather-clad motorcycle clans. The belief is that two wheels are much better than four to glimpse the postcard perfect sites of Yellowstone, Devil's Tower, the jagged Tetons, or simply roam the lonely desert roads of the southwestern plateau country.

The motorcycle has long been an icon of rugged freedom, of high velocity, and just a bit of rebellion for good measure. That hardy symbolism fits comfortably into Wyoming's frontier spirit and remnant cowboy culture. But, if you are looking to hop on the saddle of the two-wheeled revolution there are a few things you will need to take care of first.

Top License Requirements

• The new graduated licensing program instituted in fall of 2005 set the age requirement for a "full privilege" motorcycle license at 16 1/2.

• Those applicants under 18 years of age will need a minor's release document signed by a parent or guardian (form is available at any exam office).

• Supply two acceptable forms of identification.

• Achieve a passing grade (80% or higher) on the written exam.

• Pass the on-bike skills test.

• Pay a $23 fee for the "M" class license or endorsement.

Top Learning to Ride

Aside from studying the Motorcycle Operator Manual, you're going to need some education. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation designed two courses that many states, including Wyoming, have incorporated into the training regimen for licensing prospective riders. In Wyoming, you will find these labeled as the Basic Rider course and the Experienced Rider course.

Basic Rider Education Course

The Basic Rider Education course is the perfect training curriculum for those that have watched way too many rounds of Easy Rider or Top Gun but are absolutely greenhorns when it comes actually riding a motorcycle. These sessions usually run throughout a weekend and consist of 20 hours of classroom and on-bike preparation.

Once you complete the program you are exempt from state testing for two years. The fees are $25 for residents and $125 for non-residents. The chief benefit is that the motorcycles are provided, so you can learn before you buy. Of course, you will need to meet a few qualifications:

• A completed Motorcycle Safety Course Application.

• Be 15 years of age on the day of the first class.

• Probably a good idea to have prime pedaling experience on a bicycle. You don't need to be Lance Armstrong, but the essentials of equilibrium and coordination are not part of the state's syllabus.

• If you are under 18 years of age a note of consent from a parent or guardian is required.

• Wear proper gear including a DOT approved helmet, eye protection, clothing and footwear. If you do not have an acceptable helmet one will be supplied.

WYDOT provides a list of available classes.

Experienced Rider Education Course

Step two on the climb to becoming a skilled rider, the Experienced Rider course is intended for those with more experience operating a motorcycle. More advanced does not translate into professional. Experienced means you have a solid understanding of the mechanics of the machine (like how to shift those gears) and possess intermediate or better handling skills. It is the perfect upgrade for those who have completed the Basic Rider course, although it is not a prerequisite.

This course moves out of the classroom (mostly) and hits the open road with five to six hours of on-bike exercises and guidance. The fee is $25 for residents and $125 for non-residents. Requirements for class are a bit tougher, hence the advanced level.

• A completed Motorcycle Safety Course Application.

• Possess an "M" class endorsement on your driver's license.

• Exceed the goals presented in the first exercise, which is Control at Low Speed. After passing this test you must successfully exceed the goals of ensuing exercises. At any time the instructor can opt to cancel your progression if he/she feels you are unfit to succeed.

• Bring a motorcycle, which is registered and able pass a safety inspection, has evidence of insurance, and, if on loan, signed permission from the owner.

• Wear a DOT approved helmet (you must have your own this round) and all the proper gear.

• If under 18, have a note of consent from a parent or guardian.

Top Getting a Permit

A motorcycle permit is coded as "IM" on the physical document and obtaining one is subject to the new laws under the gradual driver's license program, which went into effect in Fall 2005. The new program is designed to allow young drivers to build more of a skill foundation before actually achieving all of the privileges a driver's license entails. For an in-depth overview of the three stage phase-in process visit our Driver Education section.

A motorcycle permit applies to learning to ride both motorcycles and ATVs and to garner the "instruction" version, which is the first stage of the gradual licensing process, you need to:

• Be 15 years of age or older

• Present a certified birth certificate at an exam office

• Pass a vision test with a minimum 20/40

• Attain a minimum of 80% on a written test

• Pay a $23 permit fee

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