How to Obtain a Motorcycle License in Tennessee

The process of how to obtain a motorcycle license in Tennessee varies depending on whether you already have a driver’s license and if you’ve completed a course in operating a motorcycle. It’s not complicated, but you must meet certain criteria meant to keep you and others safe.

An experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Nashville from Selvidge Injury Law is here to explain how to get your motorcycle license and what to do if you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle crash in Tennessee. Call us at (615) 864-0343 for a confidential case evaluation.

Tennessee Provides 4 Types of Licenses

Your first step is to determine what kind of motorcycle license is right for you. The Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security issues 4 different types:

• Motorcycle Learner’s Permit (Class P-M): A learner’s permit, similar to one for driving cars, if you’re under 16. Your bike must be below 650cm, and you can’t carry passengers, along with other restrictions.
• Motorcycle Only (Class M): This option is for people without a driver’s license for cars, allowing you to drive 2- and 3-wheel motor vehicles. You’ll have to pass the road knowledge test used for passenger car licenses.
• Motorcycle Secondary (Class M): This applies to you if you already have a driver’s license and will add an “M” to your existing ID, allowing you to operate motorcycles along with cars.
• Motor-Driven Cycles (scooters) (Class M-Limited): You’ll get this license if you will only be riding a 125-cc or less motorcycle or scooter during certain hours of the day. It allows a 15-year-old to ride a scooter to and from school or within 7 miles of their home.

Once you figure out which license you need, you can apply at your local Driver’s Services office.

Follow These Steps to Get Your Tennessee Motorcycle License

File your application at your local Tennessee Driver’s Services office, where you can schedule an appointment to complete your road test and the knowledge test (if you don’t have a regular license). If you completed a Certified Motorcycle Rider Education Program, you can provide your completion form instead, which exempts you from taking the road or knowledge test when you apply.

If you already have a vehicle license, you will present it so the clerk can reissue it with the Class M designation. If you don’t have your license yet, you’ll complete the vision, road, and knowledge tests, then get your motorcycle license or permit if you pass the tests.

Motorcycle Requirements Beyond the License in Tennessee

Once you get your license, you also need to purchase insurance coverage. Under the Financial Responsibility Law in Tennessee, you must carry the following policies:

• At least $25,000 of bodily injury liability insurance per person, and $50,000 per accident
• At least $25,000 of property damage liability per accident

These policies pay for any harm you cause others, and you can use other drivers’ insurance coverage to pay for your injuries and property damage if you’re hurt in a motorcycle accident while riding your motorbike. Because Tennessee is one of the most dangerous states to drive in and because you can face charges if you drive without it, getting insurance is extremely important before you get on the road.

Get Experienced Help if You’re in a Motorcycle Accident in Tennessee

Motorcyclists often suffer severe injuries when they crash, especially when the accident involves other vehicles. You need someone who can assist you in documenting your injuries, filing insurance claims, and getting the compensation you deserve.

At Selvidge Injury Law, our Nashville injury lawyers are ready to help when you contact us to arrange a free consultation today.