Illinois Motorcycle License Guide & How To Support
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.
Take a Riding Class!
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. 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.
Get Your Illinois Motorcycle License
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). The written test covers information found in the Illinois Motorcycle Operator Manual as well as the Illinois Rules of The Road guidebook. 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. (But you should still take an approved riding course regardless – along with giving you the training you’ll need to stay safe on the roads, you can also earn a discount on your motorcycle insurance.)
To take the written and road tests, you’ll need to visit your local Driver Service Center. You can find the nearest location that offers motorcycle testing at the Illinois Driver Service Center Locations webpage. Not all locations offer motorcycle license testing, so be sure that you locate one that does.
Once you’ve gotten your Illinois motorcycle license, you’ll be able to enjoy the fun of two-wheeled riding. 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. Being well-protected will help ensure that you enjoy riding for years to come.