Motorcycle License in Maryland

Maryland's official mascot may be the terrapin, but there's no better way to enjoy MD roads than on your hog.

If you have that need for speed, you'll have to get a motorcycle license through the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). Just be careful to avoid any turtles crossing the road!

New to Maryland

Congratulations on your move! Once you're officially settled in the Old Line State, you have 60 days to transfer your license.

If you already have a motorcycle license or endorsement from your old state, you'll simply need to visit your local MVA office and:

  • Bring your:
  • Pass a vision test.

If your motorcycle license/endorsement has been expired for over 1 year, there are a few additional requirements to transfer it, including:

If you're younger than 18 years old, you'll also need a completion certificate from a state-approved motorcycle safety program. First time licensees are required to take an approved driver's education course regardless of age.

Additional fees may apply to transfer your motorcycle license. Contact your local MVA office for more information.

MD Motorcycle License Eligibility

To get a Maryland motorcycle license, you must:

You can also choose to bypass the MVA all together by enrolling in a motorcycle safety course. Passing one will allow you to waive your MD motorcycle knowledge and skills exams.

*NOTE: All new drivers, regardless of age, must complete an approved driver's education course.

Read below to find out more about how to complete these steps.

Motorcycle Permits in Maryland

Before you can hit the road, you'll have to learn how to ride your bike. That's where the motorcycle permit process comes in.

Keep in mind, you can skip this step altogether by completing an approved motorcycle safety course.

If you stick with the MVA route, find a full service Motor Vehicle Administration office, and:

  • Bring your:
    • Maryland driver's license.
    • Safety course completion certificate.
      • This is only required if you:
        • Are under 18 years old.
        • Have never had a Maryland license.
  • Take the following exams:
    • Vision test.
    • Road signs exam.
    • Written motorcycle test.

You'll also have to take the written test for a Maryland driver's license and bring your residency and identification documents if you:

  • Have a license that:
    • Is of a different class.
    • Has been expired for over 1 year.
  • Have never held a Maryland driver's license.

You may be required to pay a permit fee and complete additional paperwork. Call ahead and ask you're the MVA office for more information.

Once all of the above is finished, you'll be the owner of a new Maryland motorcycle permit. Time to start practicing!

Permit Limitations

Getting a permit allows you the freedom to practice on your bike, but you'll still have the responsibility of following the rules.

Motorcycle permit holders in Maryland can only practice under the supervision of someone who:

  • Is at least 21 years old.
    AND
  • Has had a motorcycle license for at least 3 years.

While you have your motorcycle permit, you can only take passengers who meet the above requirements.

Getting Your MD Motorcycle License

You've practiced with your permit, and you're ready to hit the road, solo. The only thing stopping you is passing your road test.

This skills test is completed on a closed course and evaluates your ability to safely operate your motorcycle in and out of turns, stops, and other maneuvers. You can take the motorcycle skills exam either:

If you stick with the state agency, you'll have to schedule an appointment with an MVA office that conducts motorcycle skills tests.

Don't forget to bring:

Once you pass your exam and pay the fee, your brand new Maryland motorcycle license will be sent to you through the mail. You should receive it within 7 business days.

In the meantime, you can use the paper “interim receipt" as your license, and hit the road!

What Happens If I Fail?

If you don't pass the test, don't worry! You'll be able to retake it as soon as the following day, as long as the MVA has an available appointment.

If you fail again on your retest, you'll have to wait at least 7 calendar days before you can try again.

MD Motorcycle Safety Courses

There are several ways for you to secure a motorcycle license in Maryland.

Passing an approved motorcycle safety course will allow you to skip out on testing through the Motor Vehicle Administration, as long as you already have a Maryland driver's license.

If you're younger than 18 years old, passing the motorcycle safety course is required before you can officially begin the licensing process. The course is optional for everyone else.

To participate, you'll have to find a state-approved training center.

Make sure to call ahead and ask about fees. Course prices vary, depending on the program.

Getting Your MD Motorcycle License

After acing your class, you'll be issued a safety course completion certificate. Don't lose it! You'll need it to earn your Maryland motorcycle license.

When you're ready to get your license, visit your local MD MVA office, and bring your:

  • MD driver's license.
  • Course completion certificate.
  • Proof of:
  • Payment for the appropriate motorcycle licensing fee.

Your Maryland motorcycle license will be mailed to you within 7 business days. Congratulations!

Motorcycle License Fees in MD

The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration bases licensing fees on:

  • Your age.
  • How long the license will be valid.

Fees are as follows:

  • Motorcycle-only license:
    • Under 21 years old: $9 per each 1 year valid.
    • 21 years old or older:
      • $9 per each 1 year valid—up to $72 total.
  • Endorsement on MD CDL driver's license: $45.

The MD MVA has a fees chart with more information.

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