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How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in South Carolina

Updated on Thu, 4/28/2011

You can apply for a motorcycle permit and license at any DMV office in South Carolina. In order to apply for a motorcycle license you must first apply for a beginner's permit.

New Applicants Over 18

Listed below are the requirements to obtain a beginner's permit:

  1. Visit your nearest DMV office and complete the application form - original must be submitted in person; no photocopies are allowed.
  2. Submit your birth certificate, social security card, proof of residency and insurance information.
  3. Pay an application fee ($4.50).
  4. Pass the vision test.
  5. Pass the knowledge test. See practice tests for more information on the written exam.

New Applicants Between 15 and 18

If you are under 18 years of age, you must bring your parent or guardian with to sign your application.

Beginner's Permit

Once you complete the aforementioned prerequisites, you will be given a beginner's permit. This permit will allow you to practice driving a motorcycle.

Beginner's Permit Restrictions

With your beginner's permit you are not permitted to:
  • Drive a motorcycle outside the hours of 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. (or 8 p.m. during daylight savings time).
  • You may not operate a motorcycle at any other time unless a licensed motorcyclist supervises you.
  • You must have your beginner's permit for 180 days before you can apply for a motorcycle license.
  • If you are under 18 years of age, you must practice driving with your licensed parent or guardian for at least 40 hours, including 10 hours during darkness, before you can apply for your motorcycle license.

Applying for a Motorcycle License

Over 18

When applying for your license, you must:
  1. Schedule an appointment with your nearest DMV office.
  2. Bring your birth certificate, social security card, proof of residency and insurance information.
  3. Pass the vision and road skills tests.

Under 18

In addition to the above requirements, applicants under 18 must:
  1. Bring your parent or guardian with you to sign your application.
  2. Submit Form PDLA that certifies you have:
    • Completed a driver's education course.
    • Had satisfactory school attendance.
    • Practiced driving with your licensed parent or guardian for 40 hours, including 10 hours of driving practice at night.

Fees

There is a $4.50 fee for the beginner's permit and a $12.50 fee for a five year license or $25 for a ten year license. If the application expires, some steps to acquiring the permit or license may have to be repeated.

Additional Information