If you plan to ride a motorcycle in Atlanta, Georgia, you generally need the proper motorcycle license or permit before taking to the road. The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) issues a Class M license for motorcycles and a Class MP instructional permit for riders who are still learning.
Licensing rules are designed to ensure riders have the basic knowledge and skills needed to operate a motorcycle safely. If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, licensing issues may also become relevant when insurance companies investigate the crash. Rafi Law Firm can help you understand your rights after an accident. Contact us at (404) 800-9933 for a free consultation with an Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer.
How Can Rafi Law Firm Help After a Motorcycle Accident in Atlanta, GA?
Motorcycle accident claims can involve serious injuries, disputed liability, and disagreements with insurance companies.
The Atlanta motorcycle accident attorneys at Rafi Law Firm can:
- Investigate how the motorcycle accident occurred
- Obtain police reports and available video footage
- Interview witnesses
- Gather evidence of the other driver’s negligence
- Document your injuries and financial losses
- Handle communications with insurance companies
- Negotiate for a fair settlement
- Take your case to court when necessary
Rafi Law Firm has more than 50 years of combined experience and has recovered more than $200 million for clients. Our team can handle the legal process while you focus on your recovery. Contact our Atlanta personal injury lawyers for a free case review.
Do I Need a Motorcycle License in Georgia?
Yes. According to the Georgia DDS, you need a Class M license or Class MP instructional permit to legally operate a motorcycle or motor-driven cycle in Georgia. This generally includes motorcycles, scooters, motorbikes, motor tricycles, and mini-bikes with engines of 51cc or larger. Georgia Department of Driver Services
Mopeds with engines of 50cc or less are treated differently under Georgia’s licensing rules.
How Do I Get a Class M Motorcycle License in Georgia?
You must generally be at least 17 years old to obtain a Georgia Class M motorcycle license. DDS provides two main ways to satisfy the motorcycle testing requirements.
You can:
- Complete an approved Georgia Motorcycle Safety Program course and receive a 90-day test waiver
- Apply directly through DDS and complete the required motorcycle testing
Applicants who test directly through DDS generally must complete knowledge, vision, and motorcycle skills testing. Riders using a qualifying 90-day waiver can bypass the knowledge and on-cycle skills tests, although other licensing requirements still apply.
Applicants must also provide the identification and residency documents required by DDS.
What Is a Georgia Motorcycle Instructional Permit?
A Class MP instructional permit allows someone who is still learning to operate a motorcycle on public roads. It is not the same as a full motorcycle license. Applicants must be at least 16 years old and pass a vision test and motorcycle knowledge examination.
The Georgia DDS places several restrictions on Class MP permit holders. Riders with an instructional permit may not:
- Ride after dark
- Carry passengers
- Ride on limited-access roads, including expressways and interstates
Permit holders must also use the safety equipment required by law, including a DOT-approved helmet.
These restrictions are important for Atlanta riders because an MP permit does not authorize riding on interstate highways such as I-75, I-85, or I-20.
Are There Additional Requirements for Motorcycle Riders Under 18?
Yes. Georgia imposes additional licensing requirements on motorcycle applicants under age 18. Applicants seeking a Class MP motorcycle permit at ages 16 or 17 must satisfy Georgia’s Joshua’s Law requirements, which include approved driver education and supervised driving requirements.
Applicants under 18 must also meet applicable school-enrollment requirements and have a parent, legal guardian, or other responsible adult complete required DDS documentation.
Because requirements can depend on the applicant’s age and the license or permit being sought, younger riders should review the current DDS requirements before applying.
What Is the Georgia Motorcycle Skills Test?
Riders who do not qualify for a test waiver may need to complete the Motorcycle Rider Skills Test through DDS.
According to DDS, the test includes four riding evaluations designed to measure motorcycle control and hazard-response skills. Riders taking the test must provide a street-legal motorcycle that passes a safety inspection, along with registration or proof of ownership and valid insurance. They must also bring a DOT-approved helmet and protective goggles.
The test can be stopped if a rider commits an unsafe act, loses control of the motorcycle, accumulates too many penalty points, or fails to follow instructions.
What Happens If an Unlicensed Motorcyclist Is Involved in an Accident?
Not having the proper motorcycle license does not, by itself, explain who caused an accident. Liability generally depends on the circumstances surrounding the collision and the actions of the people involved.
For example, another driver may cause a crash by speeding, making an unsafe turn, failing to yield, or driving while distracted. Insurance companies may still investigate the motorcyclist’s licensing status along with other facts surrounding the collision.
An Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer can investigate the crash and help determine what evidence is relevant to liability and compensation.
Contact an Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation
Understanding Georgia’s motorcycle licensing requirements can help you ride legally, but even experienced and properly licensed motorcyclists can be injured by negligent drivers.
If you were hurt in a motorcycle crash in Atlanta, Rafi Law Firm can help you understand your legal options. If you were hurt in a motorcycle crash in Atlanta, Rafi Law Firm can investigate what happened, deal with insurance companies, and explain your options for seeking compensation.
Contact us today for a free consultation with an Atlanta motorcycle accident attorney.
