what does a michigan motorcycle basic riding course entitle me to ?

by Wayne Gutkowski 10 min read

Basic Rider Courses in Michigan Taking a motorcycle safety course is one of the best ways to prepare yourself to get a Michigan motorcycle endorsement and become a safe rider. These courses are designed for any new motorcyclists, even if you’ve never ridden a motorcycle before. The course consists of a classroom portion and on-bike training.

Successful completion of this course allows you to go to a Secretary of State office to obtain motorcycle endorsement in lieu of taking a Rider Skills Test.

Full Answer

What are the laws for riding a motorcycle in Michigan?

The Michigan motorcycle laws require motorcyclists to be licensed, which means they must obtain an motorcyclist endorsement on their driver’s license before they ride. There are no set rules for how old a motorcyclist must be.

What is a motorcycle riding course?

This course is designed for someone who has little or no experience operating a motorcycle, and it focuses on the development of basic riding skills: clutch and throttle coordination, straight-line riding, braking, turning, and shifting. Training motorcycles are provided. Privately owned motorcycles are NOT permitted.

How to get a motorcycle license in Michigan?

Applicants for a motorcycle license in Michigan can operate motorbikes on public roads by adding an endorsement on their MI driver’s licenses. In order to obtain a motorcycle driver’s license, motorists need to have a driver’s license issued by the Michigan Secretary of State (MI SOS).

What do I need to bring to a motorcycle class in Michigan?

When attending a motorcycle license class in Michigan, you will be required to bring and wear the following items with you: A DOT-complaint or Snell-approved helmet A long sleeve shirt or a long sleeve jacket Heavy duty long pants Eye protection (even if you have a face shield helmet) Full-fingered gloves

Does Michigan accept MSF course?

In Michigan, a student who completes and passes the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF), Basic Rider Course (BRC), or the Returning Rider Course (RRC) is granted a “waiver” to taking the Rider Skills Test (RST) and the Secretary of State (SOS) Branch Office knowledge test when applying for their Motorcycle Endorsement ( ...

What is the penalty for riding a motorcycle without an endorsement in Michigan?

Beginning February 7, 2017, a person riding without an endorsement is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by: Up to 90 days in jail or a $500 fine, or both, for a first offense.

How much are motorcycle classes in Michigan?

A tuition of $50 (nonrefundable fee) will be charged for the basic rider, three-wheel basic rider, returning rider basic rider, basic rider 2, and advanced rider course classes from public sponsors. Fees charged by private sponsors for motorcycle rider education classes are not regulated by the department.

Can you ride a motorcycle without a license?

Yes, if you have a full car licence you can ride a 125cc scooter or motorbike off-road. However, you must take and pass your compulsory basic training (CBT) before riding on the road.

What happens if you get pulled over without a motorcycle license in Michigan?

If a police officer pulls me over and I do not have a valid Michigan motorcycle endorsement what can happen? A law enforcement officer may arrest you and impound your motorcycle. You can be charged with a misdemeanor with penalties of up to $500 fine and/or up to 90 days in jail for your first offense.

Can you register a motorcycle without an endorsement in Michigan?

All motorcycles in the state of Michigan must be titled and properly registered. To legally drive a motorcycle in Michigan, drivers must have a valid motorcycle endorsement on their driver's license. Before getting the endorsement, you'll need to get a temporary instruction permit for a motorcycle.

Do you have to take a motorcycle safety course in Michigan?

You must successfully complete the motorcycle safety course if: You are under the age of 18. You are 18 years or older and have failed the motorcycle rider skills test twice.

How long does it take to get a motorcycle license in Michigan?

Obtain a motorcycle Temporary Instruction Permit (CY TIP) at a Secretary of State office, practice riding with an experienced motorcyclist for up to 180 days and pass a rider skills test offered by an approved driver testing business.

Do I need a motorcycle endorsement in Michigan?

In Michigan, residents do not need to obtain a separate license in order to ride a motorcycle. However, they must have a CY endorsement on their driver's license in order to ride legally.

Can you take your motorcycle test on your own bike?

This depends on your current riding standards, and the speed at which you learn. Can I use my own bike for test preparation ? Yes, we would encourage you to use the bike you would be taking your test on, but there is no problem hiring a machine for both the test preparation and for taking the test itself.

What happens if I get caught riding a motorbike without a license?

If you ride a motorcycle without the appropriate license, you run the risk of getting a hefty fine and getting the motorcycle impounded at your expense. In extreme cases, depending on why you don't have a license, you could possibly serve time in jail.

What does the A1 motorcycle test consist of?

The A1 Motorcycle test can be taken on either a manual or automatic bike between 120-125cc with a power output of no more than 11kw (14.6bhp), and capable of producing a speed of at least 90km/h (55 mph). You will be required to complete both Module 1 and Module 2 in order to successfully pass your test.

New Applicants 16-18 Years Old

In addition to the above requirements, applicants under 18 must: 1. Provide a parent/guardian signature on the form 2. Present proof that you have...

Temporary Instruction Permit

Once you complete the aforementioned prerequisites, you will be given a Temporary Instruction Permit.This permit will allow you to practice driving...

Instruction Permit Restrictions

With your instruction permit you are not permitted to: 1. Drive on the highway. 2. Drive during the evening. 3. Ride with any passengers.

What is a motorcycle endorsement in Michigan?

In Michigan, a motorcycle endorsement is referred to as a CY endorsement (cycle endorsement). This motorcycle endorsement can be added to any class of driver’s license in order to grant motorcycle driving privileges. Without this endorsement, you cannot legally operate a motorcycle within the state. Additionally, it is important to understand that ...

How old do you have to be to get a motorcycle license in Michigan?

The minimum motorcycle license age in Michigan is 16 years of age. However, teens who are 16 and 17 years of age will be required to complete motorcycle safety through an approved Basic Rider Course or Returning Rider Basic Rider Course before a CY endorsement can be issued onto an existing Michigan driver’s license.

What is a motorcycle permit test?

The motorcycle permit test, also referred to as a written test, must be passed before a temporary instruction permit can be issued within the state . This multiple-choice test will include a number of questions related to the basic operation of a motorcycle, Michigan traffic laws and regulations and safe driving practices. Knowledge of state laws will help you avoid traffic citations and driving points on your record.

What is the minimum age to get a motorcycle permit in Michigan?

Motorcycle Permit Requirements in Michigan. The minimum motorcycle permit age in Michigan is 16. However, there are requirements for motorcycle permit credentials for teens who are younger than 18 years of age not only need parental consent.

How long is a motorcycle permit valid in Michigan?

You must be able to pass a motorcycle knowledge test. A motorcycle permit will remain valid for 180 days and can only be obtained twice within a 10-year period.

What to wear to motorcycle class in Michigan?

When attending a motorcycle license class in Michigan, you will be required to bring and wear the following items with you: A DOT-complaint or Snell-approved helmet. A long sleeve shirt or a long sleeve jacket. Heavy duty long pants. Eye protection (even if you have a face shield helmet) Full-fingered gloves.

What is the proof of identity for Michigan?

Proof of Identity, such as with a state-issued driver’s license, a U.S. marriage license, a U.S. court order for a name change or a military ID card with a photo. Two forms of proof of Michigan residency, such as with utility bills, recent bank account statements, or a mortgage or lease agreement.

What are the motorcycle laws in Michigan?

The Michigan motorcycle laws require motorcyclists to be licensed, which means they must obtain an motorcyclist endorsement on their driver’s license before they ride. There are no set rules for how old a motorcyclist must be. Insurance is required and motorcyclists 20 ...

How old do you have to be to drive a motorcycle in Michigan?

To get an endorsement, a person could likely be 17 or less because a driver’s license can be obtained at that age. But a 16- or 17-year-old may be able to obtain a “temporary instruction ...

How to get a motorcycle endorsement in Michigan?

In order to get an endorsement, you must first have a driver’s license. The Michigan motorcycle laws state that an applicant for a motorcyclist endorsement must “first qualify for an operator’s license . . . before the endorsement . . . application is accepted and processed.” (MCL 257.310 (1))

How old do you have to be to get a motorcyclist license?

There is no set rule on how old you have to be to get a motorcyclist license in the state. But you can be younger than 18. If you are “less than 18 years of age,” you must pass a safety course before you can get an endorsement on your operator’s or driver’s license. (MCL 257.312b (1))

What is the number to call for a motorcycle accident?

If you are a motorcyclist who has been injured in an automobile crash and would like to speak with an experienced attorney, call toll free anytime 24/7 at (800) 777-0028 for a free consultation with one of our attorneys.

How old do you have to be to get a motorcycle license in Michigan?

However, the Michigan motorcycle laws qualify that statement by allowing that “a person who is 17 years of age or less” may be issued “an operator’s license” if his or her parent or guardian approves and if he or she “has satisfied the appropriate” graduated licensing “requirements . . .”.

Can you ride on the back of a bike?

There is no requirement of how old you have to be to ride on the back of the bike. The only requirement is that your feet can reach the footrests or pegs designed for the passenger. (MCL 257.658a (1))

What is a motorcycle in Michigan?

The Michigan Vehicle Code defines a motorcycle as “a motor vehicle that has a saddle or seat for the use of the rider and is designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground.”

Do motorcyclists have to obey traffic laws?

In general, motorcyclists have to follow the same traffic laws as those who drive automobiles and trucks. This means they must comply with posted speed limits, obey traffic lights and signs and use appropriate turn signals.

Can you remove a motorcycle baffle?

A motorcycle may be equipped with a working muffler that prevents excessive noise and smoke. The owner may not remove any of the baffles or use a device such as a muffler bypass.

How many hours is the MSF Rider Course?

More than 8 million motorcyclists nationwide have graduated from a RiderCourse since 1974. Eight to ten hours of classroom-style instruction – including, in some states, the Basic e Course that you complete online before attending your first formal classroom session – prepares ...

What are range exercises?

Range exercises include low-speed maneuvers and basic skills such as shifting, accelerating, braking, cornering, U-turn, lane change. You’ll be with the same group for the duration of your training. You’ll receive individual RiderCoach feedback while learning to ride. Motorcycle/scooter, helmet and gloves are provided.