NJ Motorcycle License [2023] | How to Get a Motorcycle License in New Jersey (Tips, Info & More) (2023)

There are over 330,000 motorcycles registered in New Jersey. Are you ready to join them and hit the road along Skyline Drive and the Hudson River?Getting a motorcycle license in New Jersey is a simple process., especially if you are willing to complete a pilot training course first.

See how to get a NJ motorcycle license or NJ motorcycle endorsement with step-by-step guides.

Index

New Jersey Motorcycle License Requirements

Getting a motorcycle license in New Jersey is a somewhat complicated process that involves several steps.

If you have a New Jersey driver's license, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Complete a Basic Driver's Course (BRC) at an approved NJ motorcycle school OR apply for a motorcycle license
  • Practice riding for at least 20 days after license restriction *only required if skipping BRC course
  • Complete the motorcycle skills test * waived if you complete the BRC class
  • Pass the motorcycle knowledge test *waived if you complete the BRC class
  • Pass an eye examination
  • Pay the motorcycle license fee
  • Be at least 17 years old (for a probationary license)
  • ter6 points of identity

If you do not have a driver's license, the followingNJ Motorcycle License Requirementsapply:

  • Get a NJ motorcycle license
  • Pass the knowledge test
  • Pass the vision test
  • You have been piloting with a permit for at least 6 months if you are under 21 or 3 months if you are over 21
  • Complete the Basic Riding Course (BRC) *optional but failure to complete the course may result in license restrictions
  • Pass your motorcycle road test in NJ
  • Pay the necessary fees to obtain a motorcycle test permit
  • Complete 1 year of test driving before applying for an unlimited motorcycle license and paying the additional fee
  • Have 6 ID points

The minimum age for a motorcycle license in NJ is 17, but only for a probationary license.An unlimited license requires you to be at least 18 years old.Note that 17-year-olds must complete a BRC class before obtaining a motorcycle license or endorsement in NJ.

The rules for getting a motorcycle license in NJ are a bit complicated. The steps you need to take depend on whether you already have a driver's license and whether you need an endorsement or want a license for a self-driving motorcycle. The process is also affected by whether you complete a New Jersey motorcycle license class.

How to Get a New Jersey Motorcycle License - Skip the written and road tests with NJ motorcycle courses

New Jersey does not require completion of motorcycle courses to obtain a license or permit, but it is definitely a good idea!If you already have a driver's license, completing the Basic Pilot Course brings several benefits:

(Video) New Jersey DMV Motorcycle Written Test 2023 (60 Questions with Explained Answers)

  • Waives road test requirements
  • The requirement of a written exam is waived
  • Eliminates the need for a motorcycle permit
  • It could qualify you for discounts on motorcycle insurance!

Here are the basic steps to get a New Jersey driver's license with a basic driver's course.

#1. Complete an approved Basic Pilot Course (BRC)

The fastest way to get a NJ MVC motorcycle license is to complete approved NJ motorcycle classes. There are many approved motorcycle schools in NJ with fees that vary by provider. Most providers will let you borrow a DOT-approved helmet for the course, but it's a good idea to bring your own. You must wear shoes that cover the ankles, full-fingered gloves, eye protection, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt.

The course lasts about 18 hours over three dayswith online, classroom, and hands-on instruction. The lowest cost is $325, and some providers offer discounts for students, first responders, military and families.

The biggest provider isPilot education NJwith five locations. Their Basic Riders Course (BRC) is $335 or $99 for a 3-wheeler course that qualifies for special approval. You must complete the eCourse before attending the course.

You can learn more about taking motorcycle safety courses in New Jerseyherewith a list of service providers.

#two. Complete the vision test and get your motorcycle license

Once you receive your certificate of safety course completion, you can apply for a NJ motorcycle endorsement. You will need to complete a vision test at an MVC location that offers driver testing.

(Video) How To Get Your Motorcycle License The Easy Way!

As long as you pass the vision test and have a BRC certificate of completion,you can add your motorcycle license to your license without any additional requirements. There is a $24 fee.

Additional steps if you don't have a driver's license

Don't have a driver's license? You will need to complete additional steps to obtain a NJ motorcycle license instead of an endorsement.

#1. Pass the knowledge and vision test to obtain a motorcycle driver's license

The first step is to apply for a motorcycle license in NJ (Form BA-412C). You can apply for a motorcycle license at the NJ MVC by paying a $5 fee.
To get a motorcycle license, you must first pass a vision test and a knowledge test.

The New Jersey written motorcycle test can be taken in aMVC Driver Testing Center. You will need to schedule a NJ motorcycle license to take the test. You can click here to make aMVC knowledge test mark.

Are you ready to study for the New Jersey written test? Here are some sources.

#two. riding practice

Once you get your motorcycle license, you will need to practice riding and follow all NJ motorcycle license rules. You cannot carry passengers, drive on state roads such as the NJ Turnpike, or drive at night.

If you are over 21, you must practice driving for 3 months and must not receive a suspension or fine. If you are under 21, you must practice for at least 6 months.

#3. Pass the Basic Riding Course (BRC)

With the above requirements met, you are ready for the security course. See above to learn more about NJ motorcycle courses orClick hereto view course providers and locations.

#4. Pass the motorcycle road test

If you do not have a driver's license, you must pass the NJ MVC motorcycle test to obtain a probationary license. Passing the BRC does not waive this requirement.

After you have practiced driving your NJ motorcycle license for the required amount of time AND completed the basic driver training course, you can apply for a probationary motorcycle license.

To do this, you must first pass a motorcycle skills test at an MVC test site. You can schedule your road test at the driver's test center or online between Monday and Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

(Video) How to Get a Motorcycle License in 3 EASY Steps | WheelHouse

Click hereschedule a NJ MVC motorcycle test.

You can also see all 14MVC locations in New Jerseythat offer road testing of motorcycles.

You must bring your own registered and insured motorcycle, complete with helmet and eye protection, to the road test.

#5. Get a Probationary Motorcycle License in NJ

After you pass your road test, you can pay a fee of $24 for a Class E motorcycle probationary license. You must have a probationary license for one year andfollow the driving license restrictionsincluding not riding a bicycle between 11:00 PM and 5:00 AM.

#6. Get an unlimited motorcycle license

After you have had a probationary license for at least a year, you can be issued an unrestricted motorcycle license in NJ. There is a $24 fee to convert your trial license to a full license. You do not need to pass additional tests.

Click here forupdate trial license for NJon the line.

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A post shared by NJ Motor Vehicle Commission (@njmvc)

(Video) New Jersey Motorcycle Permit Practice Test 1

How to get a motorcycle license in NJ without attending motorcycle school

Don't want to take pilot safety classes? You can still get a motorcycle approval or permit, but with additional steps. Here it ishow to get a motorcycle license in new jersey without classes. These steps are simplified; you can see the above steps for more details.

If you have a driver's license:

  • Pass the knowledge and vision test
  • Get a motorcycle license
  • You have been riding for at least 20 days
  • Pass the motorcycle road test
  • Get motorcycle approval after paying the fee

If you don't have a driver's license:

  • Pass the knowledge and vision test
  • Get a motorcycle license
  • You have been riding for at least 3 months (if you are over 21 years old) or 6 months (if you are under 21 years old)
  • Pass the motorcycle road test
  • Get a probationary motorcycle license and ride for at least 1 year with restrictions
  • Get an unlimited motorcycle license after paying the required fee

Motorcycle License vs. NJ Motorcycle Endorsement

Curious about the difference between an approval and a license? A motorcycle tag is an additional credential added to your New Jersey driver's license that allows you to legally operate a motorcycle.

A NJ motorcycle license serves the same purpose, but is for riders who do not have a driver's license.. A New Jersey motorcycle license (not an endorsement) cannot be used to operate a motor vehicle, only a motorcycle.

New Jersey Motorcycle License FAQs

How much does it cost to get a motorcycle license in New Jersey?

A basic NJ motorcycle license or license fee is $24. You may need to pay for a motorcycle license ($5), a probationary license ($24) and a BRC class (average $350).

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

You must be at least 18 years old to get an unrestricted motorcycle license in New Jersey. 17-year-olds can qualify for a probationary license after completing a safety course.

How long is a motorcycle license valid in NJ?

A $5 New Jersey motorcycle license is valid for 90 days.

How long do you need a motorcycle license in NJ before you get one?

If you have to get a motorcycle license, you must wait at least 20 days for the road test to get a motorcycle license if you have a license.

Do I need to take a road test to get a motorcycle license in NJ?

No, you can get an exemption from the road test if you have completed a basic driving course and have a driving licence. This allows you to get a motorcycle endorsement without a skills test.

With your freshly printed NJ motorcycle license in hand, you're ready to start exploring the off-roads of New Jersey and beyond! When you're ready for a rally, a long ride or even just to buy a new bike, Federal Motorcycle Transport offers you professional motorcycle delivery that opens up a world of new possibilities.

(Video) How to pass the DMV Motorcycle Road Test: NJ Edition in 4K

FAQs

NJ Motorcycle License [2023] | How to Get a Motorcycle License in New Jersey (Tips, Info & More)? ›

Practice riding (three months if you're over 21 years old, six months if you're under 21). Pass the motorcycle road test. Then, you'll get a Probationary Motorcycle License, and you must follow these restrictions. Last, after one year, pay the fees and you'll get an unrestricted Motorcycle License.

What is the process of getting a motorcycle license in NJ? ›

  • Obtain a motorcycle examination permit. Bring 6 Points of ID verification to a motor vehicle agency to apply for a motorcycle permit. Complete and pass the knowledge and vision tests.
  • Practice ride.
  • Take the motorcycle road test.
  • Obtain a motorcycle endorsement.

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

Practice riding (three months if you're over 21 years old, six months if you're under 21). Pass the motorcycle road test. Then, you'll get a Probationary Motorcycle License, and you must follow these restrictions. Last, after one year, pay the fees and you'll get an unrestricted Motorcycle License.

How much does it cost to get a motorcycle license in NJ? ›

You'll have to pass a vision test, as well, but once you do that, there are no other requirements. Even the road test is waived, so long as you complete the Basic Rider Course. There is a $24 fee to add a motorcycle endorsement to your driver's license.

What is the test for motorcycle license in NJ? ›

The New Jersey motorcycle test consists of 50 questions, and you'll need at least 40 correct answers to pass (80%). Applicants must also pass the MVC road test. Schedule an appointment for the road test after passing the written and vision tests.

Can you ride alone with a motorcycle permit in NJ? ›

Riding on any state toll road or limited-access highway. you must practice with a permit for at least 20 days before being eligible to take the road test. A motorcycle examination permit holder is no longer required to have an accompanying rider.

What are the restrictions on a motorcycle permit in NJ? ›

New Jersey Motorcycle Permit Process
  • Must be at least 17 years old; parent/guardian consent required under age 18. Apply for a permit at MVC. Pass 6 point ID verification. ...
  • Step 2 – Practice Ride. Under 21 – practice ride for at least 6 months.

What happens if you get pulled over without motorcycle license NJ? ›

According to state statutes 39:3-10, if you are caught riding without your license, you can be fined up to $500 and you can be sent to jail.

Do motorcycles pay tolls in NJ? ›

Can I use a transponder? Motorcycles pay the same toll as all other two-axle vehicles on The Toll Roads. Motorcyclists can pay using FasTrak or at TheTollRoads.com or using The Toll Roads App within five days before or five days after driving The Toll Roads.

Do you need insurance to ride a motorcycle in NJ? ›

Like most states, New Jersey requires riders to carry liability insurance to pay for any damages they may cause to others. While New Jersey mandates minimum motorcycle insurance coverage, many riders add supplemental coverages to enhance their protection.

Is lane splitting legal in NJ? ›

Lane splitting isn't expressly illegal in New Jersey, however, it's not legal, either. New Jersey law doesn't address lane splitting, but motorcyclists and drivers may be cited for failure to keep right.

How much is it to insure a motorcycle in NJ? ›

Average cost of motorcycle insurance in New Jersey

With its extra minimum requirements, New Jersey motorcycle insurance costs are about $650 per year on average, or about $54 per month, which is higher than the national average of about $519 per year.

How many can you get wrong on a motorcycle test? ›

What to expect on the actual CA motorcycle permit test
How many questions30
How many correct answers to pass24
Passing score80%
Minimum age to apply15 ½

How often are motorcycles inspected in NJ? ›

Most passenger vehicles will be required to be inspected biennially (every two years) for emissions only. Commercial vehicles and buses will be required to be inspected annually (every year) for safety and the appropriate emissions test. Motorcycles are now exempt from inspection.

How many questions are in a motorcycle theory test? ›

In the test, there are 50 questions: you'll need to get at least 43 correct to pass. You'll have 57 minutes for this part of the test. The multiple choice questions appear on screen and you'll use the mouse to choose the correct answer.

How long is a NJ motorcycle permit good for? ›

How long is a NJ motorcycle permit good for? A $5 motorcycle permit in New Jersey is good for 90 days.

Can I ride my bike on the road in NJ? ›

Always ride on the right side of the road, with traffic. Ride no more than two abreast (as long as it does not impede the flow of traffic), in a straight, predictable path. Riding against traffic will put you where motorists don't expect you. Bicycles are considered vehicles and must obey the same rules as motorists.

Does NJ Turnpike allow motorcycles? ›

As a permitted rider, you can practice on your own. There are also some restrictions you must adhere to when you have a motorcycle permit and not a full license: You may not carry passengers on your bike. You can never ride on a state toll road (such as the NJ Turnpike or Garden State Parkway, among others) .

What type of questions are on the NJ permit test? ›

The questions on the New Jersey written knowledge test will be based on the contents of the New Jersey Driver's Manual, and will concern the New Jersey traffic laws, road rules, road signs and safe driving practices.

Is NJ road test easy? ›

The NJ Road Test is not a difficult exam. It must be said that the range of difficulty a student has is mostly, if not entirely based on their behind-the-wheel experience. The behind the wheel experience a student has is a much different experience than taking the New Jersey Written exam.

Is the NJ permit test easy? ›

The NJ DMV permit test isn't easy. You won't pass this exam without practicing and perfecting your knowledge of driving skills first. For the best NJ knowledge test practice, simply take as many New Jersey driving test practice tests as you need here at DMV-written-test.com.

Can you ride around with a motorcycle permit? ›

A motorcycle permit is valid for six months in California. When holding a motorcycle permit, riders are allowed to ride alone, but may not travel on a motorcycle on the freeway or after dark.

What does GDL stand for? ›

Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) systems help new drivers gain skills under lower-risk conditions. Drivers are given more privileges as they move through the stages of GDL, such as driving at night or with passengers.

What is the most common cause of motorcycle collisions? ›

Reckless Driving, Speeding, and Alcohol Use

These three causes of motorcycle accidents are forms of reckless driving. Liability, of course, will come down to who was driving recklessly (the motorcyclist or the motorist).

Can you ride a motorcycle without a helmet in NJ? ›

New Jersey Helmet Law - P.L.

No person shall operate or ride upon a motorcycle unless he wears a securely fitted protective helmet of a size proper for that person and of a type approved by the federal DOT. Such a helmet must be equipped with either a neck or chin strap and be reflectorized on both sides.

Can you buy a motorcycle without a license in NJ? ›

Legally, you can purchase a motorcycle without a motorcycle license. But you'll need to register the bike with the state within a certain amount of time after the sale. In almost all states, you'll need insurance before you can register — and to get insurance, you might need a license.

Can a child ride on the back of a motorcycle in NJ? ›

There are no restrictions about age or height for passengers, but they must have seating and wear a helmet. It is unlawful to carry a passenger unless your motorcycle is equipped with a designated seat for the person to sit on.

What happens if you ride a motorcycle without an endorsement NJ? ›

According to state statutes 39:3-10, if you are caught riding without your license, you can be fined up to $500 and you can be sent to jail.

Do adults have to wear bike helmets in NJ? ›

But, the law doesn't apply to anyone over 17. In New Jersey, adults over the age of 17 DO NOT have to wear a helmet while riding a bike. New Jersey state law requires children under the age of 17 to wear a helmet while riding a bicycle.

Videos

1. How to Get A Motorcycle License
(Alex Simmons)
2. New Jersey DMV Written Test 2023 (60 Questions with Explained Answers)
(DMV Advantage)
3. New Jersey MVC Motorcycle Practice Test
(Motorcycle license test)
4. How to Parallel Park in 3 easy steps? | NJ Road Test Prep
(Safe Roads NJ)
5. Motorcycle Permit Test: How to Pass
(RM Garage)
6. New Jersey Motorcycle Permit Practice Test 2
(Motorcycle Practice Test)

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