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How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Illinois

Updated on Thu, 4/28/2011

You can apply for a motorcycle permit and license at any VSD (Vehicle Services Department) office in Illinois. Motorcycles of engine capacity 150cc or higher are categorized as Class M and those below that capacity as L. In order to apply for a motorcycle license you must first apply for a motorcycle permit.

New Applicants 18 and above

From your 18th birthday, you are eligible to apply for an L or M class permit valid for a year provided you have undergone driver education.

  1. Complete the application form- original must be submitted in person; no photocopies are allowed.
  2. Provide proof of birth date and legal status documentation.
  3. Present your true full name.
  4. Present your social security number.
  5. Pay an application fee ($10).
  6. Pass the vision test.
  7. Have your picture taken.
  8. Give a thumb print.
  9. Pass the signs and traffic laws examination. See practice tests for more information on the written exam.
  10. Book an appointment to write your examination by calling 1-800 252-8980 or please see your local VSD office for hours and locations.

New Applicants between 16 and 18

Below 18, you can only be issued a permit for a class L motorcycle. In addition to the above requirements, applicants under 18 must:
  1. Provide a parent/guardian signature on the affidavit of consent .
  2. Present proof that you have finished driver's education and driver training OR present your Illinois driver's license. You must also be enrolled in an Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Motorcycle Rider Education course. Please see Driver's Education and Driving Schools for additional details.
  3. Provide proof of birth date and legal status documentation.
  4. Present your true full name.
  5. Present your social security number.

Instruction Permit (Learner's Permit)

Once you complete the aforementioned prerequisites, you will be given an instruction permit. This permit will allow you to practice driving a motorcycle.

Instruction Permit Restrictions

When you ride a motorcycle with your instruction permit you must be accompanied by an adult who has a motorcycle license or endorsement. You are not permitted to:
  • Drive on the highway.
  • Drive at night.
  • Ride with any passengers.

Applying for a Motorcycle License

Under 18

  1. If you are between 16 and 18 it is mandatory to complete the training course and take the skills test
  2. Complete a motorcycle driver training course offered by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) For more information on this course please see motorcycle training course,
  3. Present the IDOT course certificate to your local VSD office and schedule your skills test.

Over 18

  1. Complete a motorcycle driver training course offered by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) or take the motorcycle driving test by scheduling an appointment at a VSD office.
  2. Present the IDOT course certificate to your local VSD office.

Fees

The fees for a motorcycle license are $10 (first time or upgrade from L to M) and $5 for renewal.

Additional Information