The state of New York has a DMV motorcycle handbook that is available to anyone who is interested in getting a motorcycle operator’s license (also called a Class M license) or a motorcycle junior operator’s license (Class MJ). Those licenses are required in order for you to operate a motorcycle in NY state, and getting that license generally includes needing to pass certain examinations. The information included on those exams can be found in the motorcycle manual, so it is crucial that you get a copy of the motorcycle handbook and study it before taking the tests.

The information found in the motorcycle DMV book is comprehensive and covers a wide assortment of topics relating to motorcycle operation. This comprises of information about vehicle control, handling dangerous surfaces, mechanical issues and much more. If you wish to learn more about the NY handbook, keep reading.

What topics are covered in the New York motorcycle handbook?

As mentioned above, the motorcycle license manual available in New York State has a lot of information in it, and that information covers a wide variety of important topics. When looking through the manual you will find a Table of Contents page that provides you with a list of the different subjects included. The official topics include the following:

  1. Motorcycle Licenses, Ownership, Special Rules. The first section of the DMV motorcycle handbook discusses the fact that in the state of New York you need either a motorcycle operator’s license (Class M) or a motorcycle junior operator’s license (Class MJ). It also covers important topics such as registration and insurance along with required equipment and the laws surrounding having children as passengers.
  2. How to Prepare to Ride. The next section of the manual covers information about motorcycle helmet laws and what the requirements are for motorcycle protective gear. It also includes valuable information regarding getting comfortable with a motorcycle and the various motorcycle controls that you must be aware of.
  3. Ride Within Your Abilities. Another important topic that is included in the New York motorcycle manual is a section that discusses some of the most crucial information that you must know before you get onto a motorcycle. This includes vehicle control, keeping your distance from other vehicles, how to navigate intersections, crash prevention, how to handle dangerous surfaces and mechanical issues, how to carry passengers and group riding. This chapter is a must-read as it contains a lot of practical information that should be understood before you attempt to operate a motorcycle.
  4. Physical Shape to Ride. Drinking and driving is illegal and highly dangerous as it puts not only your life at risk, but also the lives of those around you. This section discusses the motorcycle laws surrounding drugs and alcohol and the penalties for operating a motorcycle under the influence.
  5. How to Earn Your Motorcycle License. It is critical that you understand how the process works for actually obtaining your motorcycle license, and that includes knowing which tests to take. This section has information on the knowledge test and the on-cycle skill test.
  6. Motorcycle Safety Program. Lastly, the motorcycle safety manual discusses motorcycle safety programs and how they can be beneficial for rider training.

Can a New York motorcycle manual help applicants prepare for a motorcycle exam?

A handbook can absolutely help you to prepare for the motorcycle exams that you are required to take before you are able to get your permit and/or license. You will need to take both a written motorcycle knowledge test and an on-cycle skills test as well.

The information that you have access to when reading through the manual is the information that will also be presented to you on the exams. Therefore, the manual serves as a great motorcycle permit study guide and should be studied thoroughly beforehand.

What other materials can help applicants prepare for a New York motorcycle knowledge test or road exam?

The motorcycle license book in New York is a great resource that can be used to help you to prepare for the knowledge and on-cycle tests, although it is certainly not the only resource available. In fact, there are a couple of other materials that can be very beneficial in helping you to score highly and pass the tests on your first attempt.

One popular tool that can be used in conjunction with the motorcycle handbook is a motorcycle safety program. If you enroll in a training program, you will receive hands-on instruction from qualified instructors about the proper and safe operation of a motorcycle. You may also gain information about how to read your motorcycle operator manual as well.

As an added bonus, the successful completion of a New York motorcycle safety program is that you may be able to have the motorcycle skills test waived if you participated in an accredited program.

Another resource that can be used to prepare for the motorcycle knowledge exam is a practice test. There are often a variety of practice tests available online that allow you to become more familiar with the information while also getting comfortable with the exam itself.

Who else can benefit from a New York DMV motorcycle handbook?

Learning about motorcycle laws is important for you whether you already have your motorcycle license or you want to get your motorcycle license. Plus, there is so much information regarding the proper operation of a motorcycle and various regulations in New York that it is a good idea to look through the manual to refresh your memory every so often. Therefore, the handbook is not only a good resource for beginners who want their license, but also those who have been riding motorcycles for years.

How to Get a DMV Motorcycle Test Book in NY

Getting a copy of the motorcycle DMV book is very easy. One option that you can utilize is to request a hard copy of the manual in-person at a DMV location. However, it is important that you call the location ahead of time to confirm that they have copies on-hand.

Or, if you prefer, you can easily access a copy of the manual online by clicking here. Once you pull up the online version of the motorcycle manual you can print it out as well.

Last updated on Friday, February 28 2020.