Georgia generally requires riders to be at least 17 years old to obtain a Class M motorcycle license. However, some younger riders can legally operate a motorcycle with an instructional permit.
A person who is at least 16 may qualify for a motorcycle permit if they meet Georgia’s driver education requirements. Riders with permits face additional restrictions until they qualify for a full motorcycle license.
How Old Do You Have to Be to Get a Motorcycle Permit in Georgia?
Georgia offers a Class MP motorcycle instructional permit. Applicants must generally be at least 16 years old.
A 16-year-old must complete the driver education requirements that apply under Georgia law. Riders who are 17 but under 18 must also satisfy Joshua’s Law requirements. The Georgia Department of Driver Services outlines four different methods of satisfying these requirements.
The permit allows a rider to practice operating a motorcycle before receiving a full Class M license. However, it comes with important restrictions.
What Restrictions Apply to a Georgia Motorcycle Permit?
A rider with a motorcycle instructional permit cannot ride under the same conditions as someone with a full Class M license.
Permit holders may not:
- Carry passengers
- Ride at night
- Ride on expressways or interstates
Georgia law also provides that the motorcycle permit is valid for a limited period. These restrictions are intended to give newer riders time to gain experience before riding in more demanding situations.
How Old Do You Have to Be to Get a Class M License?
You must be at least 17 years old to qualify for a Georgia Class M motorcycle license. A Class M license allows a person to operate motorcycles, motor-driven cycles, and certain three-wheeled motorcycles.
Applicants must satisfy Georgia Department of Driver Services requirements, including testing. A rider can complete a motorcycle skills test through DDS or successfully complete an approved Georgia Motorcycle Safety Program course and use the available test waiver.
Applicants under 18 must also satisfy additional requirements that apply to younger drivers.
Do You Need a Motorcycle License if You Already Have a Driver’s License?
Yes. A standard passenger vehicle license does not automatically allow someone to operate a motorcycle on Georgia roads.
A rider must have the proper Class M license or motorcycle permit. If someone already has another Georgia driver’s license and later qualifies for motorcycle privileges, their license can reflect the additional motorcycle classification.
This distinction matters because motorcycles require different skills from those required for passenger vehicles. Georgia uses separate knowledge and skills requirements for motorcycle riders.
What About Mopeds?
Georgia treats certain mopeds differently from motorcycles. A moped generally has an engine size of no more than 50 cubic centimeters.
A person must be at least 15 years old to operate a moped on Georgia roads and must have a valid driver’s license, instructional permit, or limited permit. Mopeds may not be operated on limited-access highways or roads where the minimum speed limit exceeds 35 mph.
Because the rules for mopeds and motorcycles are different, riders should make sure they know how their vehicle is classified before riding on public roads.
What Safety Rules Apply to Motorcycle Riders in Georgia?
Age and licensing are only part of Georgia’s motorcycle requirements. Riders must also follow safety rules while on the road.
Georgia requires motorcycle riders to wear a DOT-compliant helmet. Eye protection is also required.
Even experienced riders face added risks because motorcycles are smaller and offer less physical protection than passenger vehicles. Drivers may fail to see riders in blind spots, at intersections, or while changing lanes.
New riders should take extra care as they build experience. Completing motorcycle safety training can also help riders become more comfortable with braking, turning, hazard recognition, and emergency maneuvers.
Contact an Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer at Rafi Law Firm for Help
Meeting Georgia’s age and licensing requirements does not prevent other drivers from causing dangerous motorcycle crashes. If another motorist failed to yield, changed lanes carelessly, followed too closely, or otherwise caused a collision, the resulting injuries can have lasting effects.
For more information, contact an experienced Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer at Rafi Law Firm to schedule a free consultation today.
We proudly serve clients throughout Fulton County and the greater Atlanta metro area in Georgia.
Rafi Law Firm – Atlanta
1776 Peachtree St NW UNIT 423, Atlanta, GA 30309
(404) 800-9933
