Getting your motorcycle license? Make sure you have insurance in place for when you hit the road. Answer the questions below to compare custom quotes.
⚠️ ATTENTION: Ready to get your motorcycle license? Be prepared to satisfy any insurance requirements. Click below for a free insurance quote.
Please answer the questions below to get started:
Apply for a Motorcycle License in TN
To apply for a motorcycle license or endorsement in Tennessee, you’ll need to:
- Visit the Tennessee DOS office.
- Complete an application.
- Provide proof of your identification, residency, and legal presence.
- Pass a vision exam.
- Pay the required application and testing fees.
- Pass the motorcycle written knowledge exam and motorcycle road skills test OR complete an approved motorcycle safety training course.
Please visit https://www.tn.gov/safety/driver-services.html for official application information and to schedule appointments.
Completing an approved Tennessee Certified Motorcycle Rider Education Program (MREP) will waive the motorcycle knowledge and skills test.
How much does it cost to get a motorcycle license in TN?
The fees for a TN motorcycle license are as follows:
- M-Motorcycle Only: $29.
- PM – Motorcycle permit: $6.50.
- DM – Operator and motorcycle endorsement: $55.
TN Motorcycle License Requirements and Classes
A Class M motorcycle license allows you to ride a motorcycle or motor-driven cycle over 50cc.
The minimum age to apply is 15 years old.
If you already have a valid TN driver’s license, you can ride a motorized bicycle or motorcycle that is 50cc or less.
The TN motorcycle license classes include:
- Class-M Motorcycle Only (126cc+): Allows you to ride any 2 or 3 wheel motorcycle with an engine size of over 125cc.
- Class-M Motorcycle Secondary: Allows you to ride a motorcycle in addition to a car. This is added as an endorsement to your existing license.
- Class-M Limited (51-125cc): Allows you to ride a 2 or 3 wheel motorcycle with an engine no larger than 125cc.
- Class P-M: Motorcycle learner’s permit.
Tennessee Motorcycle Permits
A motorcycle permit is available to new riders who are 15 years old.
The permit is valid for 1 year.
When the permit holder turns 16, the permit can be exchanged for a motorcycle license with no testing requirements.
The restrictions for a motorcycle permit are as follows:
- Maximum engine size of 650cc.
- No passengers.
- No highways.
- Daylight riding only.
- May only ride within 20 miles of the rider’s home.
Getting a TN Motorcycle License without a Driver’s License
If you do not already have a Tennessee driver’s license, you’ll also need to:
- Pass a driver’s license knowledge test for a Class D License.
Getting a TN Motorcycle License with a Valid Driver’s License
If you already have a valid TN driver’s license, you will not need to take the general knowledge tests.
The tests required include:
- Eye test.
- Motorcycle knowledge test.
- Motorcycle pre-trip inspection.
- Motorcycle skills test.
You can satisfy the requirements for the knowledge and skills test by completing a rider education course.
Transfer an Out-of-State Motorcycle License When Moving to Tennessee
If you’ve recently moved to Tennessee, you can transfer your out-of-state motorcycle license or endorsement. To do so:
- Visit your local DOS office within 30 days.
- Surrender your out-of-state license.
- Complete the application and provide proof of your identity, residency, and legal presence.
- Pay the required application fees.
- Pass an eye exam.
- Pass the Tennessee motorcycle written exam.
If your out-of-state motorcycle license/endorsement is valid you typically will not need to pass a road test or complete another motorcycle safety course.
Once you’ve received your motorcycle license, be sure to come back to MotorcycleZombies.com to learn how to title and register a motorcycle in Tennessee.