Riding a motorcycle in California can seem like a mess if you’ve just arrived in the state, especially if you don’t have permanent residency or citizenship. But don’t panic. The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has the solution for those who are in the process of regularizing their status or have simply come for a visit. That said, you do have to follow a few rules, but it’ll definitely be worth it.
If you’re thinking about getting around on two wheels because it’s faster, cheaper, or you just like it, here we explain what you need to do to get your license, depending on your age, immigration status, and the type of motorcycle you plan to ride.
Types of motorcycle license:
In California, there are two types of licenses to operate two-wheeled vehicles, so depending on what you want to ride, you’ll need:
- Class M1: allows you to operate any motorcycle, moped, or motorized bicycle. This is what you need if you plan to use the motorcycle as your main means of transport or if your vehicle exceeds 150 cc.
- Class M2: is more limited. It only works for mopeds or motorized bicycles. If you’re just starting out or are under 21, you’ll most likely go for this license.
If you’re over 21…
If you’re already over 21, you’ll need an instruction permit for at least 6 months, and then complete a motorcycle training course. Once you’ve done that, it’s time for the usual trip to the DMV.
There you’ll have to show your instruction permit, give your certificate that you’ve completed the course and you’ll skip the skills test. Other things you’ll need to show include:
- Fill out the application
- Provide your Social Security number (if you have one)
- Show documents that prove your identity and residency
- Pay the fee (the application is valid for 12 months)
- Pass a vision and knowledge test
- Provide your fingerprint and take the required photo
- And finally, take the practical test (only if you didn’t do the above), you’ll have three attempts and if you fail you can pay $6 and try again. But if you go past the deadline, you’ll have to start from scratch, so don’t miss the dates!
What if you’re an immigrant?
- If you’re visiting (and over 18), good news: if your motorcycle license is valid in your country of origin (and not expired), you can legally ride in California without needing to apply for another license. However, this exception only applies while you maintain your visitor status.
- If you become a resident of the state, as soon as you officially become a resident of California, you have 10 days to obtain your local license. From that moment on, your country’s or previous state’s license is no longer valid.
Getting a motorcycle license in California as an immigrant is not impossible. There are rules, yes, but also options designed so you can ride legally. The important thing is knowing what applies to you based on your age, status, and the type of motorcycle you’ll be using.
If you’ve just arrived in the state or are regularizing your status, this can be a great way to gain mobility and freedom. Just make sure to do it right from the beginning, because riding without papers or without a license only makes things more complicated!
