Significance

• To operate a motorcycle in Georgia, a specific driver's license is required. According to the Georgia Department of Driver services, scooters, motorbikes and minibikes are all classified under the same category as motorcycles. A motorcycle driver's license is known as a Class M license. Obtaining a motorcycle driver's license in Georgia proves that a person is physically able to operate a motorcycle and has the proper knowledge to operate the vehicle in a safe manner.
  
  

Function

• Georgia driving laws require that 3 different tests are passed before a motorcycle license can be obtained. These tests include an eye exam, a written instructional test, and a practical driving test. The eye exam is required to prove that a Georgia motorcycle driver is capable of reading road signs and has a clear sight of road and other vehicles on it. The written test is an exam designed to test the knowledge of a motorcycle and the way that it works. The driving test proves that a motorcycle driver can operate her vehicle and can effectively apply the Georgia driving rules and laws while doing so.
  
  

Types

• Motorcycle drivers over the age of 16 can apply for a Class MP instructional permit. An MP instructional permit is not mandatory before applying for a Class M license, but it is recommended. A written test must be passed in order to receive the MP permit. While holding a Class MP permit, certain restrictions apply. If under the age of 18, a parent's written permission is needed and Driver's Education Training must be completed. The motorcycle can only be operated during the day, with no passengers, and all safety equipment, according to the law, must be worn. An MP permit is valid for 6 months.
  
  To receive the Class M motorcycle license, the driver must be over the age of 17. If he is under the age of 18, a parent's consent will be needed. All tests must be passed. In order to take the skills test on the motorcycle, a motorcycle that passes a safety inspection must be furnished by the test taker. A Class M license is valid for 5 years.
  
  If a Class C driver's license is held at the same time as a Class M license, the Class C license must be surrendered, and no refund will be given. The Class M license will take its place, and will be a valid driver's license for both cars and motorcycles.
  
  

Considerations

• Motorcycle safety courses may be taken in Georgia to increase or refresh knowledge and skills before attempting to obtain or renew a motorcycle license. Basic rider courses can be taken by anyone 16 years of age or older. A parent must be present at the 1st class to sign a permission slip for anyone who is under the age of 18. A motorcycle and a helmet will be provided. The classes are a total of 8 hours, with 7 of these hours spent on the road. If passed successfully, the basic rider course will take the place of the road and written tests required at the Georgia DMV. A Class M license will then be provided at the Georgia DMV when the basic rider course paperwork and other necessary documents are provided.
  
  

Misconceptions

• While a moped is a vehicle similar to a motorcycle, it does not fall under the same category according to Georgia state laws. A motorcycle license is not required to operate a moped, but certain restrictions still apply. In order to drive a moped in Georgia, a person must be at least 15 years of age, have a permit or valid driver's license, wear a helmet, and obey all traffic laws that apply to any other vehicle on the road.
  
  

Warning

• Failure to obtain a Georgia motorcycle license or instructional permit before operating a motorcycle on the road can result in serious consequences. While driving a motorcycle can be a safe experience, lack of information and experience can lead to a fatal outcome. The information, skills and knowledge required by the Georgia DMV before obtaining a motorcycle license are in place to keep all drivers, passengers, and other people on the road safe at all times.