Virginia

Virginia Motorcycle Licensing

Motorcycle License, Training & Insurance

The content below is for informational purposes only and was last updated as of 3/26/2021. For the most up-to-date information, please visit https://www.dmv.virginia.gov.

Operating a Motorcycle in Virginia

In order to operate a motorcycle in the state of Virginia you must:

  • Meet the state’s minimum age requirement
  • Obtain a Virginia motorcycle license / endorsement (in some instances you may need to obtain a learner’s permit)
  • Register your motorcycle with the state of Virginia
  • Obtain insurance coverage that meets Virginia state requirements

The minimum age requirement to operate a motorcycle in Virginia is 16 years and 3 months of age.  For specific motorcycle licensing requirements and restrictions by age group, click here.

Getting a Virginia Motorcycle License

According to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicle, in addition to meeting the requirements necessary to obtain a regular driver’s license, individuals must apply for a Class M license to operate a motorcycle. 

Find out how to obtain a Virginia Class M license here.

Motorcycle Education & Training in Virginia

Motorcyclists should sign up for a motorcycle safety course.  In Virginia, it is not mandatory to complete a motorcycle safety course to obtain a Virginia Class M license. To find a Virginia Rider Training Program course location, click here. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) website contains operator safety information.

Virginia Motorcycle Insurance Requirements

If you’re riding a motorcycle, you will have many of the same requirements regarding registration, licensing and insurance as automobile drivers have in Virginia.  For information about Virginia insurance requirements, visit the https://www.scc.virginia.gov.

By now, you should have a good idea about how to obtain a Virginia motorcycle license / endorsement. If you are a new resident in Virginia, or you are a new rider and you’re shopping for motorcycle insurance, click here to get a quote in minutes.

Disclaimer: The materials available at this web site are for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. You should review the links within this article, or contact the relevant state agency, for complete and current information.

The VA DMV requires motorcyclists to have current coverage that meets the state’s minimum requirements on all registered vehicles. Before riding in Virginia, make sure your coverage meets the state’s requirements.

To make sure you have the right coverage at the right price, come see what Rider can do for you.

Want to find out more about motorcycle coverage requirements in other states?

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