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United States · Permit test

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

It depends on your state. As of October 2026, you can start at 15 in Texas, 15½ in California, and 16 in New York and Florida. If you’re under 18, or under 21 in California, expect extra steps like a course, driver education or a parent’s signature.

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Updated October 2026 · Written from official sources, listed at the bottom of this page

Minimum ages

StateYoungest ageExtra rules for young riders
Texas15Limited to 250cc or less until 16; driver education and a skills test under 18
California15½A rider course if under 21; driver education if under 17½; hold the permit 6 months if under 21
New York16Wait 6 months with the permit before a road test if under 18
Florida16At least a learner’s license to enroll in the Basic RiderCourse

Texas

Texas lets 15-year-olds get a Class M license with an engine size restriction: 250cc or less. It comes off at 16 after a DPS skills test. Riders 15 to 17 need proof of the 32-hour classroom part of driver education and proof of school enrollment, and a parent or guardian must come with them. A learner license under 18 costs $16.

California

You must be at least 15½ for a motorcycle instruction permit. From 15½ to 21, you must finish a California Motorcyclist Safety Program course first. Under 17½, you also need driver education and driver training certificates. While you hold the permit you can’t carry passengers, ride on the freeway or ride at night.

New York and Florida

In New York you must be 16 to apply for a learner permit. Under 18, you wait at least 6 months after getting it before you can schedule a road test. Your supervisor must be 21 or older, hold a motorcycle license and stay within a quarter mile of you.

In Florida you must be at least 16 and hold a learner’s license to take the Basic RiderCourse. For a Motorcycle Only license under 18, Florida says you must have held a learner’s license for a year with no traffic convictions.

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Everything else, in one place

OverviewMotorcycle permit testHow many questionsHow many questions are on the motorcycle permit test?DMV appointmentBooking a motorcycle permit test or DMV appointmentCostHow much does a motorcycle license cost?Online testCan you take the motorcycle permit test online?Motorcycle handbookMotorcycle permit study guide: your state’s manualPractice testMotorcycle permit practice testWhere to learnWhere to learn for your motorcycle permit and license
Sources: Texas DPS, California DMV, California Motorcycle Handbook and 3 more. Checked October 2026.

Rules and fees can change, so check the official site before your test.