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How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Louisiana

Updated on Thu, 4/28/2011

You can apply for a motorcycle permit and endorsement at any OMV office in Louisiana. In order to apply for a motorcycle license you must first apply for a motorcycle permit.

Helmets and eye-guards are mandatory in the state.

New Applicants Over 18

Listed below are the requirements to obtain a permit:

  1. Complete Application for License.- original must be submitted in person; no photocopies are allowed.
  2. Have your picture taken.
  3. Give a thumb print.
  4. Pay an application fee (up to $19 depending on the handling parish).
  5. Pass the Vision Examination Form.
  6. Pass the signs and traffic laws examination . See practice tests for more. information on the written exam
  7. Book an appointment to write your examination by calling 1-877-368-5463 or please see your local OMV office for hours and locations.

New Applicants between 15 and 18

In addition to the above requirements, applicants under 18 must:
  1. Provide a parent/guardian signature on the form.
  2. Present proof that you have finished driver's education and driver training OR present your Louisiana driver's license. 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 when accompanied by a licensed driver.

Instruction Permit Restrictions

With your instruction permit you are not permitted to:
  • Drive on the highway.
  • Drive during the evening.
  • Ride with any passengers.

Applying for a Motorcycle License

Under 18

  1. If you are below 18 you must have had your learner's permit for at least 6 months.
  2. Complete a motorcycle driver training course offered by the Louisiana Department of Education or approved private agencies. For more information on this course please see motorcycle safety awareness and operators training program.
  3. Present the course certificate to your local OMV office.
  4. Alternately, you may schedule a road test with the OMV. Be sure to take your driver's license, learner's permit, you motorcycle and helmet with registration and proof of insurance. If riding your vehicle to the testing station, you must be accompanied by a licensed adult.

Over 18

  1. You must have held a learner's permit for at least a month
  2. Complete a motorcycle driver training course offered by the Louisiana Department of Education or approved private agencies. For more information on this course please see motorcycle safety awareness and operators training program.
  3. Present the course certificate to your local OMV office.
  4. Alternately, you may schedule a road test with the OMV. Be sure to take your driver's license, learner's permit, you motorcycle and helmet with registration and insurance proof. If riding your vehicle to the testing station, you must be accompanied by a licensed adult.

Fees

The fee structure for a four-year license includes $8 for the application and $8 for processing. Various parishes may add up to $3 towards their handling charges. Licenses of shorter validity cost about $4 less. Only cash is accepted.

Additional Information