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How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Washington

Updated on Thu, 4/28/2011

You can apply for a motorcycle instruction permit or endorsement at any DOL office in Washington. You must have a regular license before you apply. There are two means by which you can obtain an endorsement. If you successfully complete an approved rider course at a motorcycle training school, you can bring proof of completion to any driver licensing office within 6 months and you will not be required to take the written and riding test. Alternately, you can apply for an instruction permit and take the tests.

New Applicants Over 18 Who Are Applying For an Instruction Permit

Listed below are the requirements to obtain an instruction permit:

  1. Complete the application form- original must be submitted in person; no photocopies are allowed.
  2. Submit your license and proof of identification.
  3. Pay an application fee ($5).
  4. Pass the knowledge test for motorcycle operation .See practice tests for more information on the written exam.
  5. No appointment is necessary.

New Applicants Between 16 and 18

In addition to the above requirements, applicants under 18 must:
  1. Have passed an approved rider course. Please see Driver's Education and Driving Schools for additional details.
  2. Have your parent or guardian attend to sign the consent form.

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.

Instruction Permit Restrictions

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

Applying for a Motorcycle Endorsement

If you have not completed an approved rider course at a motorcycle training school, you will be required to take the riding test.
  1. Make an appointment with any driver licensing office.
  2. If you pass the test, you will receive a motorcycle endorsement on your license.

Fees

The $5 application fee covers your written law tests and the skills test costs an additional $20. Your instruction permit and driver's license is included in this fee within the 12 month time period. If the application expires, some steps to acquiring the permit or license may have to be repeated.

Additional Information