North Carolina Motorcycle Licensing
Motorcycle License Endorsements, Training & Insurance
The content below is for informational purposes only and was last updated as of 4/21/2021. For the most up-to-date information, please
visit https://www.ncdot.gov/dmv/Pages/default.aspx.
Operating a Motorcycle in North Carolina
In order to operate a motorcycle in the state of North Carolina you must:
- Meet the state’s minimum age requirement
- Obtain a North Carolina motorcycle license endorsement (you may also need to obtain a motorcycle learner permit)
- Register your motorcycle with the state of North Carolina
- Obtain insurance coverage that meets North Carolina state requirements
The minimum age requirement to operate a motorcycle in North Carolina is 16 years old. For specific motorcycle licensing requirements and restrictions by age group, click here.
Getting a North Carolina Motorcycle License Endorsement
According to the North Carolina Department of Transportation, in addition to meeting the requirements necessary to obtain a regular driver’s license, individuals must apply for a motorcycle license endorsement to operate a motorcycle.
Find out how to obtain a North Carolina Motorcycle License Endorsement here.
Motorcycle Education & Training in North Carolina
Motorcyclists should sign up for a motorcycle safety course. In North Carolina, it is not mandatory to complete a motorcycle safety course to obtain a North Carolina motorcycle license endorsement, unless you are under the age of 18. To find a North Carolina Motorcycle Education Program training center, click here. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) website contains operator safety information.
North Carolina 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 North Carolina. For information about North Carolina insurance requirements, visit https://www.ncdoi.gov/.
By now, you should have a good idea about how to proceed in obtaining a North Carolina motorcycle license endorsement. If you are a new resident in North Carolina, 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 NC DOI requires motorcyclists to have current coverage that meets the state’s minimum requirements on all registered vehicles. Before riding in North Carolina, 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?
