United States · Permit test
Start with your state’s motorcycle manual. It’s free, and the knowledge test comes from it. Then look at a rider course. Some states require one, and many use it to waive a test. We checked the official options, the apps and the course providers in October 2026.
Every state publishes one, and the test comes from it. California’s is the Motorcycle Handbook (DL 665), New York’s is the MV-21MC, and Texas posts a Motorcycle Operator Manual through TDLR. Start here before you pay for anything.
Checked October 2026
Short, but written by DMV in the style of the real California test. Useful for any state, since the safety content overlaps a lot.
Checked October 2026
These two are the same company. The website has free motorcycle tests for each state, with explanations. The DMV Genie app covers car, motorcycle and CDL, and has 4.8 stars from about 184,000 ratings on the App Store.
Checked October 2026
The most-rated motorcycle-only app: 4.6 stars from about 2,300 ratings. Over 340 questions, practice by topic and a link to your state’s manual.
Checked October 2026
State-by-state motorcycle tests in English and Spanish, with no sign-up. Rated 4.8 stars from about 700 ratings. Some reviewers mention ads during tests.
Checked October 2026
The standard beginner course in many states, with online or classroom lessons and then on-bike training. Florida requires it for the endorsement, and New York accepts it to waive the road test. Use MSF’s site to find a course near you.
Checked October 2026
The CHP-approved course. It’s required for riders under 21, and the DL 389 certificate you get can waive the DMV skills test if you hand it in within 12 months.
Checked October 2026
Texas requires every applicant to finish one. The MSB-8 certificate is valid for 24 months and lets DPS waive the knowledge test.
Checked October 2026
The Basic RiderCourse here is required by Florida law for the motorcycle endorsement. Some other courses, like the Advanced RiderCourse, don’t count for a new endorsement.
Checked October 2026
Explore
Rules and fees can change, so check the official site before your test.