In Rhode Island, instead of having a specific DMV motorcycle handbook that is filled with information regarding solely the operation of motorcycles and the laws specific to motorcycles, there is a driver’s manual that serves as the RI motorcycle handbook. This driver’s manual is not created to be used only by motorcyclists or car drivers, but instead by everyone operating any type of vehicle on the roads in Rhode Island.

The reason that RI does not have a specific motorcycle manual is because a mandatory safety course is required where all of the important information will be learned. Also, a knowledge test is not required through the DMV but is instead a necessary component of the safety course. The driver’s manual booklet is a great resource that can be used to help you pass the course and become a more confident driver. To learn more about the manual, continue reading.

What topics are covered in the Rhode Island motorcycle handbook?

The motorcycle test book, or the RI driver’s manual, includes a large variety of different information covering the car and Rhode Island motorcycle laws, the signs you may encounter, how to perform certain maneuvers and much more. However, it should be noted that the information is not specific to motorcyclists, and some of the topics discuss only car-related information.

The following are just a few of the topics included in the manual that can be beneficial to motorcyclists:

  • The Effects of Distractions, Drowsiness and Emotions on Driving: Both motorists and motorcyclists should be aware of how certain distractions can cause accidents when driving a vehicle. Also, driving when feeling tired or experiencing strong emotions can increase the likelihood of getting into an accident, so this section discusses the importance of not driving when you feel fatigued or over-emotional.
  • Signals and Roadway Markings: The driver/motorcycle operator manual then goes on to discuss the signs and road markers that exist in Rhode Island. Stop signs, yield signs, one-way signs and more are depicted so that you can gain an understanding of what each sign means.
  • Motorcycles: There is a section in the manual that is dedicated to motorcycles. This section includes information about what car drivers need to know about motorcycles in order to safely share the road with them. Plus, motorcycle helmet laws are discussed in the next portion of the section where the use of protective equipment is talked about.
  • Drinking and Driving: Regardless of whether you ride a motorcycle or operate a car, it is illegal and extremely dangerous to drive when under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Read this section to learn about the consequences of drinking and driving and to understand why operating a vehicle after drinking can be so dangerous.

Can a Rhode Island Motorcycle Operator Manual Help Applicants Prepare for a Motorcycle Exam?

The state of Rhode Island does not require a motorcycle knowledge test or an on-cycle skills test to be completed through the DMV in order for you to get your license. However, those tests are required at the end of the mandatory motorcycle safety program, and the completion of the program is what allows you to obtain your motorcycle license.

Although the safety course will provide you with all of the information you need to pass the course tests, reading through the driver manual can also be beneficial because a lot of the information in the manual applies to motorcyclists as well.

What Other Materials Can Help Applicants Prepare for a Motorcycle Knowledge Test or Road Exam in Rhode Island?

As mentioned before, no specific motorcycle handbook exists in Rhode Island because nearly the entire process for getting a motorcycle license is included in the motorcycle riding safety course. When you take the mandatory course, you will be provided with both in-classroom and on-cycle instruction that will completely prepare you for the exams at the end of the course. Although the course will prepare you for the tests, you may benefit from also reading through the driver’s manual.

Who Else Can Benefit from a DMV Motorcycle Manual?

There is not an official DMV motorcycle handbook in Rhode Island. There is only a driver’s manual that is primarily designed for car motorists. However, motorcyclists can benefit from reading the drivers manual for a couple of different reasons.

First, the driver’s manual includes a lot of information that is necessary for both those driving cars and motorcycles, including information about driving under the influence and avoiding collisions. This can make the driver’s manual serve as almost a motorcycle permit study guide that you can study before you take the tests to complete the safety course.

The second reason that the driver’s manual is beneficial is because it will help you get your driver’s license, which is a necessary step before you are able to get a motorcycle endorsement or license. In Rhode Island, you must have a standard driver’s license before you are able to apply for a motorcycle license, so you if you do not have a license yet, you will need to study the driver’s manual in order to get your driver’s and then your motorcycle license.

How to Get a Motorcycle Operator Manual in RI

Again, there is not a DMV motorcycle manual in Rhode Island, but there is a driver’s manual that contains a lot of important information. There are two ways to get a copy of the driver’s manual in Rhode Island. You may either visit your local DMV office to get a physical copy in-person, or you can access the manual online here.

Last updated on Friday, February 28 2020.