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How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Tennessee

You can apply for a motorcycle permit and license or endorsement at any Driver License Station in Tennessee. In order to apply for a motorcycle license or endorsement you must first apply for a motorcycle permit.

New Applicants Over 18

When applying for a Motorcycle permit you will be applying for a Class M license. Visit the Driver License Station with the following documentation:

  1. Proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residency.
  2. Primary proof of ID.
  3. Secondary proof of ID.
  4. Two Proofs of Tennessee Residency with your name and address of residence - must be less than 4 months old.
  5. Proof of Social Security Number or a sworn affidavit if no Social Security number has been issued.

New Applicants Between 15 and 18

In addition to the above requirements, applicants under 18 must also provide:
  1. Teenage Affidavit/Financial Responsibility.
  2. Proof of school attendance/progress.

Learner's Permit

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

Applying for a Motorcycle License or Endorsement

Under 18

Although you can get your permit at 15 years of age, you are ineligible to get your license until you are 16. You must also provide certification of 50 hours riding Experience (SF-1256) prior to applying for you license.

Over 21

In order to get your license, you will need to:
  1. Pass the written test.
  2. Pass the vision test.
  3. Complete a motorcycle driver training course offered by the Motorcycle Rider Education Program or take the motorcycle driving test (3 chances to pass) by scheduling an appointment at a DMV office.

Fees

The fee is $38 for driver license with a motorcycle endorsement. The motorcycle-only license attracts a fee of $20.50.

Additional Information

Comments

I have been riding motorcycles for 50 years and while in the USAF I had motorcycle indorsement on my license however, when I retired in 1990 and changed from my old license to a new picture License they must have left of the endorsement! I did not notice Until I went to buy my latest bike. I am sure I will have to start over again with my license since It has not been on my license for 19 years. I have never been stopped or received a ticket not even a warning ticket since 1963, but that does not matter. so I would like to get a copy of a practice test to refresh my memory with.

mark Willis