Operating a motorcycle in Virginia requires a valid driver’s license with a specific Class M designation. This endorsement ensures you’re legally permitted to ride and have demonstrated the necessary skills and knowledge. Understanding the Class M designation and how to obtain it is crucial for any aspiring motorcyclist in the state.
Understanding Class M Designations in Virginia
In Virginia, your driver’s license will indicate the type of motorcycle you are authorized to operate under the “Class” section. Look for “M”, “M2”, or “M3” designations, each specifying different motorcycle types:
- M: Allows operation of both two-wheeled and three-wheeled motorcycles.
- M2: Restricts operation to two-wheeled motorcycles only.
- M3: Restricts operation to three-wheeled motorcycles only.
It’s important to note a specific restriction indicated by the number “6” on your license. If your license shows an “M”, “M2”, or “M3” designation alongside a “6” under “Restriction,” you are authorized to operate only a motorcycle and not any other type of motor vehicle.
How to Add a Class M Designation to Your Virginia License
If you are already a licensed driver in Virginia but lack the motorcycle designation, you can add a Class M, M2, or M3 endorsement to legally ride. It’s important to remember that not all Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) customer service centers administer the motorcycle road skills test. Always verify testing locations beforehand.
Steps to Obtain Your Motorcycle License in Virginia
The process for obtaining your bike license in Virginia varies slightly depending on your age and whether you complete a Virginia Rider Training Program.
For Individuals 18 and Over
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Those who have completed the Virginia Rider Training Program (VRTP) benefit from a streamlined process. Completing a VRTP course provides you with a course completion certificate, exempting you from both the motorcycle knowledge exam and the road skills test at the DMV.
For individuals 19 and older, the VRTP course completion certificate acts as a temporary Class M2 or M3 license when carried alongside your driver’s license. This allows you to legally operate the corresponding type of motorcycle for 30 days following course completion.
After these initial 30 days, you must visit a DMV customer service center to officially add the motorcycle designation to your license. Remember, these certificates are valid for one year from the completion date. Bring your VRTP certificate when you visit the DMV to apply for your motorcycle classification.
For Individuals Under 18
OR
Even with a Virginia Rider Training Program (VRTP) certificate of completion, individuals under 18 have a slightly different procedure. You are still required to hold a motorcycle learner’s permit for a minimum of nine months. However, the VRTP certificate exempts you from the motorcycle knowledge exam and the motorcycle road skills test at the DMV for one year from the course completion date.
Keep in mind that the motorcycle class designation involves an annual fee, and its validity period aligns with your existing driver’s license. When renewing your driver’s license, ensure you also renew your Class M, M2, or M3 designation to maintain your motorcycle riding privileges. Refer to the official DMV Fee Chart for the current yearly charges associated with the motorcycle class designation.
