Tennessee
Motorcycle Test

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Motorcycle License

How To Get A Tennessee Motorcycle License

Getting on the streets in Tennessee and riding a motorcycle means you must be able to operate the vehicle and also understand the rules of the road. To earn a Class M Motorcycle Operator License, you'll need to take a road skills test and a knowledge test at one of Tennessee’s Department of Safety and Homeland Security Driver Services Center. Applicants must be 16 years or older to operate a motor-driven cycle over 50cc. People between 15-16 years old will be required to obtain a special permit in order to operate a motorcycle with restrictions. They will need to pass a written test, vision screening, and demonstrate the ability to operate a motorized bicycle, which is the only type of vehicle they can drive with the special permit. If you are new to Tennessee and are licensed to drive a motorcycle in another state that required a knowledge and skills test, you will be exempt from taking that again. However, you will still be required to take a Tennessee vision screening at a Driver Service Center. You can find more information on Page 11 of Tennessee’s Comprehensive Driver License Manual.

If you would rather take a class to prepare for your knowledge and on-cycle skills test, you can join the Tennessee Motorcycle Rider Education Program. You will learn how to safely operate a motorcycle, the rules of the road, and other motorcycle issues. If you successfully pass the course, you will receive a completion card and certificate. When you apply for a motorcycle license, having a certificate will waive the knowledge and skills test requirements. You can find a list of testing locations on their website.

Motorcycle Test

Tennessee Motorcycle License Test Tips

Tennessee’s Motorcycle Knowledge Test is a very important factor when it comes to obtaining your Class M Motorcycle Operator License. This is because it tests your understanding of safety and knowledge on a cycle. You will be tested on things such as best practices for carrying passengers and/or cargo, effective street strategies, and how to prepare for a safe ride. The knowledge test covers everything you need to ride safely and reduce your chances of experiencing a crash, whether you are operating a standard two-wheel motorcycle or a three-wheel motorcycle.

The Tennessee on-cycle skills test averages at around 20-25 minutes and will test your ability of how you drive and control a motorcycle to obeying traffic signals and posted signs. You also want to keep in mind that you will be tested on your pre-trip vehicle inspection. You will need less than 6 errors to pass the test. When you feel you are ready and have had enough practice, you can schedule your appointment at one of Tennessee’s Driver Service Centers.

Additional Information

Information on the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security

The DSHS is responsible for testing student drivers and licensing all drivers. To schedule your licensing examination or get more information contact them via:

Website:  https://www.tn.gov/safety/driver-services/classm.html
Phone:  615.251.5166
Email:  [email protected]

To find the office hours and / or location nearest you, please visit:
https://www.tn.gov/safety/driver-services/locations/dllocationcity.html

Additional Tennessee Motorcycle License Helpful Links

Please use the links below to learn more about helpful topics related to the Tennessee motorcycle license test or other motorcycle license related topics.