How much does it cost to get a motorcycle license in Illinois?
$10Driver's LicenseCommercial Driver's License (CDL)– Renewal or Transfer in from another state$60Instruction Permit – Original *If you receive your license prior to the expiration of your instruction permit, you may not need to pay an additional fee.$20Motorcycle – First time or upgrade M or L classification$1016 more rows
Do I need to take a motorcycle class in Illinois?
If you are 16 to 17 years old *If you are 18 or older, participating in a FREE Motorcycle Safety Course is recommended. If you choose not to, you may obtain your license at an SOS Driver's Services Facility by successfully passing a driving and written examination.
Do you need a motorcycle license to buy a motorcycle in Illinois?
You actually do not need to have a motorcycle license in order to buy a motorcycle. There are no laws or regulations relating to such a rule, so you are free to purchase as many motorcycles as you would like without worrying about having to get your license first.
Can you drive a motorcycle with a regular license in Illinois?
There are two classifications: a Class L license (for any motor-driven cycle that has an engine smaller than 150cc) and a Class M license (for bikes with engines bigger than 150cc). Motor-driven cycles with an engine displacement of 50cc or less do not require the rider to have a motorcycle license.
How hard is it to get a motorcycle license in Illinois?
Getting your Illinois motorcycle license is not easy. It takes a lot of time and effort to learn the traffic rules and requires passing an exam at the DMV.
What happens if you get pulled over without a motorcycle license in Illinois?
If you get pulled over while riding a motorcycle without a license or permit, the police officer has the capability of giving you a large fine because it is classified as a misdemeanor. A fine like this can range between $100 – $1,000, depending on the policeman and the reason you were pulled over in the first place.
How many questions are on the Illinois motorcycle test?
15 questionsThe test consists of 15 questions, and at least 12 correct answers (80%) are required to pass.
What CC requires a motorcycle license in Illinois?
Motorcycle driver's licenses in Illinois are classified according to their type and weight. A motorcycle with less than 150cc displacement requires a Class L license. Any motorcycle with a motor-driven cycle requires a Class M license.
How much is motorcycle insurance in Illinois?
On average, the cost of motorcycle insurance in Illinois for a full coverage policy is $417 per month or about $35 per month, which is $53 higher than the national average. The cost of a liability-only motorcycle insurance policy is $176 per year on average or about $15 per month.
Can I drive a motorbike with car license?
Yes, if you have a full car licence you can ride a 125cc scooter or motorbike off-road. However, you must take and pass your compulsory basic training (CBT) before riding on the road.
Can you lane split in Illinois?
Although it might save time and be convenient, lane splitting is a risky driving behavior, and therefore, illegal in Illinois. Per Illinois statute 625 ILCS §5/11-703(c), any person operating a two-wheeled vehicle such as a motorcycle, moped, or scooter can't pass two vehicles simultaneously.
What are the motorcycle laws in Illinois?
Motorcycle — Persons age 18 or older may apply for a 12-month instruction per- mit to operate a motorcycle other than a motor-driven cycle. The permit allows driving only during daylight hours, under the direct supervision of a licensed motor- cycle operator age 21 or older with at least one year of driving experience.
Do I need a motorcycle license for a 125cc in Illinois?
No license is required to operate a motorized bike. Helmets are not required in Illinois for moped, scooter or electric bicycle riders.
Can you register a motorcycle without a motorcycle license in Illinois?
Can you register a motorcycle without a license? You don't technically need a motorcycle license to register a motorcycle, but you do need motorcycle insurance. And because most insurance companies require that you have a license in order to get coverage, it's harder to register your bike without a license.
How many questions are on the Illinois motorcycle test?
15 questionsThe test consists of 15 questions, and at least 12 correct answers (80%) are required to pass.
Do I need a motorcycle license for a 150cc scooter in Illinois?
Motorcycle Classifications You'll need to carry a Class L driver's license to operate a moped (unless it meets the above criteria) or scooter, as long as the engine displacement is less than 150 cubic centimeters. If the displacement is 150cc or more, you'll need a Class M license.
What is a motorcycle license in Illinois?
Having a motorcycle license in Illinois will allow you to legally operate vehicles classified as motor-driven cycles, which can include vehicles with two, three or four wheels. When you apply for a motorbike license, you will receive a new classification, which may also be referred to as an endorsement, on your driver’s license.
How old do you have to be to get a motorcycle permit in Illinois?
If you want to obtain a motorbike permit in Illinois, then the requirements vary based on your age. The minimum motorcycle permit age is 16 years of age. If you are younger than 18 years of age, then you must show that you have completed a driver’s education program and pass a written test pertaining to motorcycles in order to get a Class L permit. To obtain a Class M permit as a minor, you also need to complete a motorcycle safety course before you are eligible.
What are Illinois motorcycle endorsements?
Motorcycle endorsement classifications can only be added to existing credentials, which means you must already have a standard or commercial driver’s license in your possession when you apply for the privilege to operate a motorcycle. Once you meet the requirements for a classification, you will receive a new license that indicates you are legally allowed to operate a motorcycle and/or a motor-driven cycle.
How old do you have to be to get a motorcycle license?
The minimum motorcycle license age is 16 years of age. If you are older than 18 years of age, then you will either need to take a motorcycle safety class or pass a knowledge and skills test at the SOS to be eligible for a license. When you apply for a license at 16 or 17 years of age, you will need to take a safety course and pass knowledge ...
How to get a motorcycle endorsement in Illinois?
You can receive a motorcycle endorsement or classification on your license by applying at the Driver Services Department (DSD) of the Illinois Secretary of State (SOS). The steps for getting your motorcycle classification vary depending on your age, but you should be prepared to pass exams at a Driver Services Facility or complete a riding safety program. Learn more about these requirements below.
How long can you use your motorbike license in Illinois?
If you have an out-of-state motorbike endorsement or license and move to Illinois, then you can use your credentials for 90 days or until they expire. Before this period elapses, you will need to visit the SOS in order to apply for an Illinois license.
What is the difference between a motorcycle M and a L?
The classification you receive will depend on the engine size of the motorcycle that you wish to operate. The “M” classification indicates that you are allowed to operate motorcycles with any engine size, while the “L” classification limits you to motor-driven cycles with an engine displacement of less than 150cc.
What license do you need to ride a motorcycle in Illinois?
If you’re planning on riding any sort of motor-driven cycle, from a dirt bike all the way up to an 1800cc Hog, you’re required by the state of Illinois to get an Illinois motorcycle license . There are two classifications: a Class L license (for any motor-driven cycle that has an engine smaller than 150cc) and a Class M license (for bikes with engines bigger than 150cc). Motor-driven cycles with an engine displacement of 50cc or less do not require the rider to have a motorcycle license.
How old do you have to be to get a motorcycle license in Illinois?
To get an Illinois Motorcycle License, you must be at least 16 years old and pass both a written exam and an on-bike riding test (for which you’ll need to provide your own bike and riding gear).
How old do you have to be to take a motorcycle test?
If you 18 or older, and can present proof that you’ve completed an IDOT-approved motorcycle riding course, you can waive the riding test; if you’re between the ages of 16 and 18, you’ll still need to take the riding portion.
Can you throw a leg over a bike?
Very few people can throw a leg over a bike and successfully ride if they’ve never done it before. The state of Illinois encourages would-be motorcyclists to learn the basic skills of riding by partnering with private motorcycle riding schools across the state.
Do you have to wear a helmet in Illinois?
Whether on-road or off-road, it’s important to be safe. Although Illinois does not currently have mandatory helmet laws, it’s highly recommended that you wear all of the proper riding gear – helmet, jacket, gloves and boots. ...
Is it safe to ride a motorcycle with an IDOT?
By taking an IDOT certified motorcycle riding course, you’ll be a much safer rider – and you’ll be able to remove a step from the motorcycle license test process.
How to get a motorcycle license in Illinois?
Steps for Getting a Motorcycle License in Illinois 1 Bring proof of identification to an SOS Driver Services location 2 Present proof of completion of the Motorcycle Rider Education Course 3 Take the written and driving skills exam 4 OR waive the exams and present proof of completion of an IDOT motorcycle safety course 5 Pass a vision exam 6 Pay a $10 fee
How to operate a motorcycle in Illinois?
In order to lawfully operate a motorcycle in the state of Illinois, you must obtain a license or permit. There are two types of motorcycle licenses you may obtain, depending on the displacement of the motorcycle you wish to operate. Most motorcyclists in the state choose to obtain a Class M license rather than a Class L because it allows the operator to ride any type of motorcycle. If you are new to the state or wish to learn how to ride a motorcycle, it is important to follow these steps to obtain your license and avoid any harsh penalties or fines.
What is the IDOT approved motorcycle safety course?
Aside from IDOT-approved safety courses, the Illinois Department of Transportation offers various Motorcycle Rider Education courses to help you learn how to operate your motorcycle in a safer manner . The completion of the Basic Rider Course and Intermediate Rider Course may be used to the same effect as an IDOT-approved safety course, in that completion of both courses allows you to waive the written and on-cycle tests if you are 18 years of age or older.
What is a basic rider safety course?
The basic rider safety course covers all aspects of motorcycle safety and accident prevention. It starts with a review of basic equipment and gear checks before moving on to learning about your bike, basic techniques like serpentine turns, riding in circles, changing gears, and braking methods.
How old do you have to be to get a motorcycle permit?
To qualify for a Class L or Class M motorcycle permit, you must be 18 years old and able to present a current state license or ID, complete the written Rules of the Road exam, pass a vision test, and pay a permit fee; or you must complete a driver education course and be enrolled in a motorcycle training program if you are 16 or 17 years of age.
How many hours of motorcycle training is required for a motorcycle instructor?
The course includes 8 hours of training in the classroom as well as 12 hours of training on a motorcycle and will cover all of the basic riding skills, rules of the road, mental skills, and street riding skills needed to operate a motorcycle safely.
What to wear when riding a motorcycle?
Long pants made out of denim, leather, or another sturdy and appropriate material. You may not ride your motorcycle wearing shorts or pants made of thin materials.
What is the best way to get a motorcycle license?
If you want to give yourself the best chance of obtaining your motorcycle license, taking an IDOT approved safety course should be high on your list of priorities. Motorcycle safety needs to be a top priority for all riders and an IDOT approved safety course can teach you everything you need to know about riding safely. After completing this course you’ll be capable of riding your motorcycle safely, reducing your risk of an accident.
What happens if you don't have a motorcycle license in Illinois?
If you don’t obtain a license, you’ll be breaking the law every time you get on your bike. When you break the law you’re exposing yourself to legal problems which could include hefty fines and even jail time.
What is the Illinois motorcycle operator's manual?
The Illinois State Motorcycle Operators Manual has detailed information regarding the fundamentals of riding and what you can do to help keep yourself safe when you’re on the road. You can get your copy here.
Why is a class M motorcycle license more popular than a class L license?
A Class M license is more versatile because it gives riders the ability to operate any type of motorcycle. That makes the Class M more popular than the Class L license. The process of getting an Illinois Motorcycle license requires you to go through a series of steps. Fortunately, by following some simple tips, ...
What does it mean if you can't see the road on a motorcycle?
If you want to be able to ride safely, you’ll need good eyesight. One of the most common causes of a motorcycle accident is when a rider is not able to clearly see the road. If you don’t have good vision and can’t pass your vision test, you’ll not be able to get your motorcycle license in the state of Illinois.
What is the Illinois Department of Transportation?
If you want to learn how to ride more safely, the Illinois Department of Transportation offers courses for all motorcycle riders covering the basics of safety. Be aware that if you lack basic knowledge of how to ride a bike safely, you are much more likely to get into an accident.
Can you ride without a license?
So, unless you want to have to deal with the legal ramifications of being caught riding without a license, you’ll need to follow the process and obtain a license before riding. You can obtain either a Class M or a Class L license.
How long does a motorcycle permit last?
Once you do, the permit lasts for 24 months.
How many CCS does a Class L license have?
On the other hand, a Class L license is bound by the engine capacity, which maxes out at 150 CCS, quite restricting.
What to do after your learner's permit expires?
After your learner’s permit expires and you wish to obtain your class M/L license, the very first thing you need to do is to make sure to gather your documents. Prepare legal forms that have your full name on them, in addition to four other original forms of identification. You’ll find that the state of Illinois has provided a list of what’s accepted in the form of identification papers.
Can you drive with a learner's permit in Illinois?
A learner’s permit is issued to Illinois’ citizens aged 16 to 18, and it allows them to drive only in daylight and with the company of a Class M motorcyclist with experience for at least a year. Without question, those with a learner’s permit aren’t allowed to drive with passengers on board.
How much does a motorcycle license cost in Illinois?
License fees in Illinois vary for different services and motorcycle driver’s licenses are $10 for a first-time licensee or upgraded license for M or L classification. Renewal licenses for M or L classification cost $5. Suspended licenses may also require added fees. For example, one statutory summary suspension requires payment of $250 to reinstate a license.
What class of license do you need for a motorcycle in Illinois?
Motorcycle driver’s licenses in Illinois are classified according to their type and weight. A motorcycle with less than 150cc displacement requires a Class L license. Any motorcycle with a motor-driven cycle requires a Class M license.
What is required to operate a motorcycle in Illinois?
To operate a motorcycle in the state of Illinois, a driver must possess a valid license designed for the type of motorcycle a driver expects to operate.
What documents are needed to get a motorcycle license in Illinois?
Proving residency requires two documents. Unacceptable documents include items like business cards, college identification cards, fishing licenses, and various commercial membership cards like those used at gyms or exercise facilities. Applicants for an Illinois motorcycle license who do not already hold a valid state driver’s license must also ...
How old do you have to be to get a motorcycle license?
License Requirements. Applicants age 16 or 17 must complete a motorcycle training course approved by the state’s department of transportation. An instruction permit valid for 24 months will be granted to drivers who pass the motorcycle written test and complete a driver education class.
What age do you have to be to take a motorcycle test?
The exception to this requirement is if a driver is age 18 or above and has completed the motorcycle training course. The rider skill test helps measure a driver’s handling skills and is conducted in a paved area with lines painted on the surface. Equipment must be checked before the examination.
How many motorcycles are there in Illinois?
According to information from the state government of Illinois, there are almost 356,000 licensed motorcycles on the roads in Illinois. To help new riders qualify for licensure, the state provides an essential motorcycle operator manual.
What do You Need to Get a Motorcycle Driving License in Illinois?
Riding a motorcycle is difficult enough and therefore, you need to learn the basics of it before jumping on a bike and hitting the streets.
Why an IDOT-Approved course is the fastest way to get a motorcycle driving license in Illinois?
After you complete this test, in order to get a valid motorcycle driving license you need not appear for a written as well as road test. So, after taking the course, you will be successful in skipping these two steps which others will have to undergo, no matter what.
Conclusion
After you obtain a valid motorcycle driving license in Illinois, you can kickstart your riding life –whether you use your bike to go to work or for cross country commutes.
New to Illinois
Upon establishing Illinois residency, you have 30 days to register your motorcycle by bringing the following items to your local SOS office:
How to Register a Motorcycle in Illinois
After buying a new or used motorcycle in Illinois, you'll need to register it AND pay all required taxes within 20 days.
Motorcycle Registration Fees & Taxes
Below is a list of fees required by the IL Secretary of State to register your motorcycle :
What do you need to ride a motorcycle?
Rider must provide a street-legal motorcycle in good mechanical repair, DOT-approved helmet, current motorcycle registration or written approval from the owner of the motorcycle, proof of insurance, and must have a valid motorcycle license.
How long is the Scooter Riders course?
This 20-hour course includes classroom and riding instruction and improves street-riding skills and strategies. Scooter riders are welcome to participate in the courses to receive their “L” or “M” license. License waivers are issued upon successful completion of this course for students 18 or older.
Is CRSTP free in Illinois?
All courses are free to any Illinois resident 16 or older who holds a valid automobile or motorcycle driver’s license or permit. The CRSTP is the only program authorized by the Illinois Secretary of State to offer a license waiver. Residents younger than 18 must have written consent from a legal guardian.
