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✔ Article reviewed by Ethan Orenstein. Bringing motorcycles back from the dead since 2013. Learn More.

New York – NY Motorcycle Permit Test

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Free Motorcycle Permit Practice Test

  • Choose the best answer and receive instant feedback.
  • Click next to continue.
  • Overall score at the end of the test.
  • Random questions each attempt.


Each test contains questions based on information in the motorcycle manual.

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Are you preparing to get your NY motorcycle permit, license, or endorsement? 

This page will provide you with some free practice test questions to help you study. 

We’ll also provide you with an overview of what to expect for the test, as well as your options for taking it. 

Remember, be sure to read and review the New York motorcycle handbook to make sure you know everything you need to know. You can find a PDF link to the official rider handbook here: https://dmv.ny.gov/brochure/mv21-mc.pdf 

To ride a motorcycle in New York you must have a valid Class M or Class MJ license or permit.

The first step towards your full NY motorcycle endorsement is passing the permit test.

Sample Questions for the NY Motorcycle Test

Each sample question is based on information you may find on the New York motorcycle permit test. Choose the best answer. Go to the bottom of the page to find the answer key. 

1. When riding with a passenger on your motorcycle, you should adjust your mirrors:

  1. When you are both seated on the bike. 
  2. Before the passenger gets on. 
  3. When no one is on the bike. 
  4. When you get to your first intersection.

2. Keeping an adequate space cushion around your motorcycle allows for all of the following, EXCEPT:

  1. Escape routes.
  2. The ability to see and be seen.
  3. Enough space to stop. 
  4. The ability to avoid constantly scanning for hazards.

3. When riding a motorcycle at night, you should:

  1. Ride faster than during the day.
  2. Ride slower than during the day.
  3. Decrease your following distance. 
  4. Wear darker colored clothing. 

Basic Rider Courses in New York

Taking a motorcycle safety course is one of the best ways to prepare yourself to get a New York 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. 

Continue reading to find out whether or not you’ll be able to skip the DMV motorcycle tests by completing a basic rider course. 

Learn more about the details for motorcycle rider education and training here. 

In addition to learning how to be a safe rider and having the opportunity to waive your DMV motorcycle tests, completing an approved Basic Rider Course may also earn you a discount on your motorcycle insurance policy

About the Motorcycle Permit Test in New York

Passing the written exam, or motorcycle knowledge test, is one of the major steps towards getting your New York motorcycle license

The test is designed to check your knowledge on a number of topics related to operating a motorcycle safely. 

How Many Questions are on the NY Motorcycle Permit Test?

In New York, the motorcycle permit test consists of 20 questions.

You’ll need a score of 70% to pass (if taking the test in person).

You need an 80% to pass when taking the test online.

If you take a rider’s training course, you will still need to pass the NY DMV motorcycle written exam. 

Online NY Motorcycle Permit Test

You may have the option to submit your application and complete the NY permit test online.

To do so, you’ll need to visit the NY DMV website and follow these steps:

  • Begin your online application and upload the necessary documents.
  • Check your email for a link to your motorcycle permit test.
  • Complete the test with a passing score.

If you are under 18 years old, a parent or guardian will need to supervise the online test.

You will need to get a score of at least 80% overall, including 50% on the road signs questions and 60% on the motorcycle questions.

New York Motorcycle Skills Test

After completing the permit test and satisfying any motorcycle permit requirements, you’ll also need to pass a skills test. 

The motorcycle skills test will evaluate your ability to control your motorcycle and complete a number of key maneuvers. 

The examiner will be looking to see that you can demonstrate basic motorcycle control skills, the ability to avoid obstacles, and the ability to properly navigate a curve. 

Other techniques that you can expect to be tested on include:

  • Weaving through cones. 
  • Figure 8s in a box. 
  • Normal stops. 
  • Quick stops. 
  • Turning from a stop. 
  • U-turns. 
  • Swerves. 
  • Cornering. 

If you complete a motorcycle training course, you’ll have the opportunity to learn the techniques and practice all of the necessary skills. 

Completing an approved motorcycle training course will satisfy the NY DMV motorcycle skills testing requirements. 

Answer Key: New York Motorcycle Test Sample Questions

Refer to the answer key below to see which questions you answered correctly and which topics you’ll need to study some more. 

Follow the questions’ links for an explanation on the correct answers. 

1. When riding with a passenger on your motorcycle, you should adjust your mirrors: A. When you are both seated on the bike.

2. Keeping an adequate space cushion around your motorcycle allows for all of the following, EXCEPT: D. The ability to avoid constantly scanning for hazards.

3. When riding a motorcycle at night, you should:  B. Ride slower than during the day.

Need more practice? Check out our large list of motorcycle permit test questions and answers, and explanations

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Content Editor: Ethan Orenstein

Ethan is not just any motorcycle enthusiast. With a decade of experience riding, maintaining, and restoring a range of motorcycles, Ethan brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. Many of the tips and tricks shared on this site are born from hours spent wrenching on personal bikes. Paired with his experience as a journalist covering DMV & insurance topics, MotorcycleZombies.com is a must-visit site for any home-mechanic. Every article has been carefully reviewed and edited to ensure accuracy, authenticity, and simplicity - all to help bring your bike back from the dead and onto the road.

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