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In order to legally ride a motorcycle in AL, you’ll need to possess a valid Class M endorsement on your driver’s license.
Your motorcycle will also need to be registered with a valid liability insurance policy.
How do you get a motorcycle license in Alabama?
To get a motorcycle (M) endorsement, you must either pass the DPS’ motorcycle knowledge exam or complete a motorcycle safety course.
You must be at least 14 years old to qualify for a motor-driven cycle license, which allows the holder to ride a bike with an engine of no more than 150cc.
The minimum age for a standard motorcycle license (M Endorsement) is 16 years old.
First, you’ll need to have a valid driver’s license.
When you’re ready, visit a local Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) office and provide:
- Identification, residency, and citizenship documents.
- Proof of school enrollment, if applicable.
- A completed application form.
- Proof that you’ve passed a motorcycle safety course OR pass the motorcycle knowledge exam.
- Payment for the testing and application fees.
A separate motorcycle skills test is not required in Alabama.
Visit https://www.alea.gov/dps/driver-license to get started on your Alabama motorcycle application process, make appointments, and find approved motorcycle safety course locations.
How much does a motorcycle license cost in Alabama?
The fees for an Alabama motorcycle license are as follows:
- Motorcycle written exam: $5.
- New license: $36.25.
- Add endorsement to existing license: $31.25.
Note: Alabama motorcycle license fees may vary by county.
Transfer a Motorcycle License When Moving to Alabama
If you’ve recently moved to Alabama, you can transfer your out-of-state motorcycle endorsement to an Alabama motorcycle license. You’ll need to visit a Department of Public Safety(DPS) office and bring:
- Your current, out-of-state driver’s license.
- The proper identification, residency, and citizenship documents.
- Payment for the transfer and application fees.
Age Requirements for an Alabama Motorcycle License
When can you get a motorcycle license in Alabama?
- 14 years old: motor-driven cycle license.
- 16 years old: Class M motorcycle license.
A motor-driven cycle is defined as having:
- A motor that produces no more than 5 HP.
- An engine size of no more than 150 CC.
- A weight of less than 200 lbs.
A motorcycle is defined as:
- A motor vehicle having a seat or saddle for the use of the rider.
- Designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground, excluding a tractor.
AL Motorcycle Riding Restrictions
Motorcyclists aged 14 and 15 years old can receive a Class M license with a “B” restriction.
A B restriction allows you to only ride a motor-driven cycle. When you are at least 16 years old, you can take the exams for an unrestricted Class M motorcycle license.
If you’re at least 16 years old and have met the requirements and passed the necessary tests or taken a motorcycle safety course, you’ll be issued an unrestricted Class M driver’s license.
An unrestricted Class M license in Alabama allows you to operate a motorcycle or a motor-driven cycle.
When you’ve got your license, come back to MotorcycleZombies.com to find out how to register and title a motorcycle in Alabama.
Alabama Motorcycle Test
To get your motorcycle endorsement in Alabama you’ll need to either complete an approved basic rider course OR pass the motorcycle permit test.
The Basic Rider Course includes a written exam, on-cycle training, and a skills test at the end of the course.
The written test is based on information you can find in the official motorcycle operator manual.
Prepare for your motorcycle knowledge exam with our free AL motorcycle practice test questions.
Alabama Motorcycle Laws
Being a motorcycle rider comes with a lot of responsibility.
You’ll need to familiarize yourself with safe riding practices along with the state’s motorcycle laws to keep yourself safe and legal on the road.
Some important AL motorcycle laws to know about include:
- All riders are required to wear an approved DOT motorcycle helmet.
- Riders must possess a valid motorcycle endorsement.
- Lane splitting is prohibited.
- Motorcycle insurance is required to register and title your bike.
Learn more about Alabama motorcycle laws here.