Getting the Kansas motorcycle handbook before applying for a motorcycle endorsement on your standard driving license is one of the most important steps in the application procedure. The motorcycle manual of the state Department of Revenue (DOR) provides all the information necessary to pass the state licensing exams and refine your safe riding practices.

You can also continue using the guidebook even after getting your bike endorsement to review other important topics, such as maintaining your physical and mental fitness to ride a motorcycle.

Note that the state DOR has adopted the standard motorcycle operator manual prepared by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF). Therefore, after obtaining the KS DMV motorcycle handbook, you will gain access to all the valuable content diligently prepared by the MSF to improve the safety of motorcyclists on the road. Read the sections below to learn about the best way to utilize the state bike manual and how to use additional study materials to improve your chances of passing the state licensing exams.

What topics are covered in the Kansas DMV motorcycle handbook?

The information contained within the Kansas motorcycle DMV book is organized in several main sections, which are designed to provide valuable information in a clear and straightforward manner to both novice and experienced riders. The various topics covered by the DMV motorcycle manual are outlined in the following list:

  • Section 1: Preparing to Ride – Offers invaluable information regarding the proper riding gear, such as helmets, clothing and face protection, and tips on choosing the right motorcycle and the responsibilities that you will have.
  • Section 2: Ride Within Your Abilities – Covers the following important topics about safe riding practices and riding under difficult circumstances:
    • Basic Vehicle Control
    • Keeping Your Distance
    • Searching, Evaluating and Executing
    • Intersections
    • Increasing Conspicuity
    • Avoiding Crashes
    • Handling Dangerous Surfaces
    • Mechanical Problems
    • Animals, Flying Objects and Getting Off the Road
    • Carrying Passengers and Cargo and Group Riding
  • Section 3: Being in Shape to Ride – Includes information on the effects of alcohol and/or drugs on your ability to ride safely, the laws on intoxicated riding and dealing with fatigue.
  • Section 4: Earning Your License – The last section provides a brief overview of the written knowledge test and the on-cycle skills test, which must be passed to get your bike license.

Note: You can explore the above topics in detail by obtaining the KS motorcycle handbook. Information on where to get the guidebook is provided in a subsequent section.

Can a Kansas motorcycle handbook help applicants prepare for a motorcycle exam?

Passing the Kansas motorcycle knowledge test and the road riding skills exam is one of the final steps when applying for a motorcycle endorsement with the state DOR. However, unlike the standard driving license exams, you will be required to show motorcycle-specific knowledge to pass these examinations. The state motorbike manual contains all the sections needed to correctly answer the majority of the questions on the written knowledge exam, such as road rules and regulations and safe riding practices.

Studying the KS motorcycle operator manual will also help you pass the practical riding exam. While reading the guidebook does not translate in riding experience, you will still obtain valuable tips and guidelines that will help you stay safe on the road and pass the on-cycle exam, such as controlling your motorcycle, navigating traffic and implementing safety maneuvers.

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

In addition to utilizing the Kansas DOR motorcycle handbook, you can improve your chances of passing your licensing exams by obtaining additional study materials as well. For example, you can purchase written practice tests from third-party test providers. These written practice exams reflect the structure of the official motorcycle knowledge exam, and they are mainly bundled together with study guides, which will help you organize your study time more efficiently.

The state DOR also offers you the option of enrolling in an approved motorcycle education course organized by the state Department of Education. These rider courses are comprised of both a theoretical and a practical component, in most cases.

By completing a rider education program, you will familiarize yourself with the topics contained in the KS DOR motorcycle manual and refine your riding skills. If you apply for your motorcycle endorsement within a certain time period after finalizing the rider course, you will also be exempted from taking all licensing exams.

Who else can benefit from a Kansas motorcycle manual?

While the Kansas motorcycle manual is mostly used by bike license applicants, it may prove useful to other groups of users as well. For instance, if you are a parent or a guardian of a teenage rider taking his or her motorcycle knowledge test, you can peruse the state bike manual to monitor the progress of your child. In such cases, you will also familiarize yourself with the state regulations on motorcycle usage, which will help you ensure that your child abides by the corresponding laws at all times.

Experienced riders are also encouraged to retain a copy of the KS motorcycle handbook even after passing the licensing exams, since they may need it under different circumstances. For instance, if you are ticketed while riding your motorcycle, you can check whether or not the manual contains a relevant section that will provide you with information on whether or not you were at fault. If you have not operated your motorcycle for a longer time period, you can also refresh your knowledge of safe riding practices and the applicable rules and regulations.

How to Get a Kansas DMV Motorcycle Manual

If you are wondering where to get a Kansas motorcycle operator manual, note that you can visit any driver exam station within the state and obtain a physical copy. If you are unable to make an in-person visit, you can always get the most up-to-date version of the motorcycle DOR book via the department’s website at this link. After getting your copy of the bike handbook, ensure that it is complete and contains every relevant section.

Last updated on Friday, February 28 2020.