If you’re wondering whether you can ride a motorcycle with a permit, the answer is yes, but with some limitations. Motorcycle permits allow you to legally ride a motorcycle on public roads, but only with certain restrictions.
In this article, we’ll go over what you need to do to obtain a motorcycle permit in New York and what you can and can’t do with it.

How to Obtain a NY Motorcycle Permit?
To obtain a motorcycle permit in New York, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Study the New York State Motorcycle Operator’s Manual
- Schedule and pass a vision test at the DMV
- Pass a written knowledge test at the DMV
- Complete a 3-hour pre-licensing course
- Schedule and pass a motorcycle road test or complete a motorcycle safety course.
New York Motorcycle Learner Permit Application
To apply for a motorcycle learner permit in New York, you’ll need to visit a DMV office and bring:
- Your current driver’s license or learner permit
- Your Social Security card
- The MV-44 application form
- Proof of identity and date of birth
- Payment for the application fee
Who can apply for a learner’s permit?
In New York, anyone who is at least 16 years old and holds a valid driver’s license or learner permit can apply for a motorcycle learner permit.
Riding a Motorcycle with a Permit: NY Laws
In New York, a motorcycle learner permit allows you to ride a motorcycle on public roads, but only under certain restrictions:
- You must wear a helmet at all times while riding.
- You can only ride during daylight hours.
- You cannot carry any passengers.
- You cannot ride on any limited-access highway or bridge.
The NY Motorcycle Road Test: 3 Ways Permit Holders Can Prepare
If you’re preparing to take the New York motorcycle road test, there are a few ways you can prepare:
- Practice riding in different road and traffic conditions.
- Review the New York State Motorcycle Operator’s Manual and take practice tests.
- Consider taking a motorcycle safety course.
How to get a full license after getting a learner’s permit?
To get a full motorcycle license in New York after obtaining a learner permit, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Hold your motorcycle permit for at least 6 months.
- Complete a 5-hour pre-licensing course or pass a motorcycle safety course.
- Schedule and pass a motorcycle road test.
Get a motorcycle learner permit and license
To get a motorcycle learner permit and license in New York, follow these steps:
- Study the New York State Motorcycle Operator’s Manual.
- Schedule and pass a vision test at the DMV.
- Pass a written knowledge test at the DMV.
- Complete a 3-hour pre-licensing course.
- Schedule and pass a motorcycle road test or complete a motorcycle safety course.
Can you ride alone with a motorcycle permit in NY?
Yes, you can ride alone with a motorcycle permit in New York, but only under certain restrictions, such as wearing a helmet, riding during daylight hours, and not carrying passengers.
FAQs:
Q: How long does a motorcycle permit last in New York?
A: A motorcycle permit is valid for two years from the date it is issued.
Q: Can you ride a motorcycle with a car driver’s license?
A: No, you need to have a motorcycle endorsement or permit to legally ride a motorcycle on public roads in New York.
Q: Can you renew a motorcycle permit in New York?
A: Yes, you can renew a motorcycle permit in New York by visiting a DMV office, passing a vision test, and paying the renewal fee.
Q: How much does it cost to get a motorcycle permit in New York?
A: The cost of a motorcycle permit in New York is $10.
Q: Can you ride a motorcycle without a helmet with a permit in New York? A: No, all motorcycle riders in New York, including those with permits, are required to wear a helmet at all times while riding.
Q: How long do you have to wait to take the motorcycle road test in New York?
A: In New York, you must hold your motorcycle permit for at least 30 days before you can schedule and take the motorcycle road test.
Q: Can you ride a motorcycle on the highway with a permit in New York?
A: No, you cannot ride on any limited-access highway or bridge with a motorcycle permit in New York.
Q: Can you take a passenger with a motorcycle permit in New York?
A: No, you cannot carry any passengers with a motorcycle permit in New York.
Q: Can you ride a motorcycle with a permit in other states?
A: The rules and requirements for riding a motorcycle with a permit vary by state, so it’s important to check the laws in the state you plan to ride in before getting on the road.
In conclusion, obtaining a motorcycle permit in New York is a straightforward process, and it allows you to legally ride a motorcycle on public roads, albeit with certain restrictions. By following the steps outlined above and adhering to New York’s motorcycle laws, you can enjoy the freedom and thrill of riding a motorcycle while staying safe and legal on the road.