At [Our Company Name], we understand the importance of obtaining a motorcycle license in Tennessee for those who wish to operate two- and three-wheeled motor vehicles. We are here to provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to apply for a motorcycle license or permit in Tennessee, ensuring that you meet all the necessary requirements and have a smooth application process.
Tennessee Motorcycle Endorsement
If you already possess a driver's license in Tennessee, you can add a motorcycle endorsement to your existing license instead of requesting a separate document. This endorsement, known as a motorcycle-secondary license, allows you to have both car and motorcycle driving privileges on a single license .
Motorcycle Permit Requirements in Tennessee
To be eligible for a motorcycle permit in Tennessee, you must be at least 15 years of age. This permit allows young drivers to learn how to operate motorcycles just before they are eligible to apply for a full license. If you are 16 years of age or older, you can apply directly for a full license .
To obtain a motorcycle permit, you will need to complete a vision test, pass a written knowledge-based exam, and a short road skills exam on an applicable motorcycle. The permit is valid for one year from the date of receipt .
Required Documents for a Motorcycle Permit
When applying for a motorcycle permit in Tennessee, you will need to provide the following documents to the Department of Safety and Homeland Security (DSHS):
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence in the U.S., such as a U.S. original or certified birth certificate, a valid and current U.S. passport, or a Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship from the USCIS.
- One primary proof of identity, such as a U.S. driver's license or ID card, a U.S. original or certified birth certificate, or a U.S. or foreign passport.
- One secondary proof of identity, such as paycheck stubs, work IDs, or bank statements.
- Two proofs of Tennessee residency with your name and address from the last four months, such as utility bills, bank statements, or rental/mortgage contracts.
- Proof of Social Security Number (SSN) or a sworn affidavit stating that no SSN was issued.
- Teenage Affidavit/Financial Responsibility, completed and signed.
- Proof of School Attendance/Progress (if applicable).
- Proof of legal name change (if applicable).
Tennessee Motorcycle Permit Rules and Restrictions
Once you have obtained a motorcycle permit in Tennessee, there are certain rules and restrictions that you must adhere to:
- Operate a motorcycle with an engine no larger than 650cc.
- Only drive during daylight hours.
- Stay within a 20-mile radius of your residence.
- Avoid interstate roadways and highways.
- Not carry any passengers.
How to Get a Motorcycle Permit in Tennessee
To apply for a motorcycle permit in Tennessee, you will need to visit a full-service DSHS driver services center in person. Here are the steps to follow:
- Gather the necessary application materials, including proof of identity and Tennessee residency.
- If required, print out the SSN Affidavit or other necessary documents and complete them.
- Prepare the necessary application fees.
- Head to your nearest DSHS licensing office with your application materials.
- Take the vision exam and knowledge-based exam.
- If successful, take the road skills exam.
- If successful, have your permit photo taken.
- Wait to receive your motorcycle permit .
Tennessee Motorcycle License Requirements
To apply for a full motorcycle license in Tennessee, you must be at least 16 years old and meet the state's other application requirements. These requirements may vary depending on whether you are applying for your first license or adding motorcycle privileges to an existing license.
The requirements for a motorcycle license in Tennessee include passing a vision exam, a written knowledge test, and a driving skills exam. These exams are mandatory for all drivers, regardless of their driving records. Additionally, drivers without any other driving license will need to complete the Regular Rules of the Road knowledge test.
Required Documents for a Motorcycle License
When applying for a motorcycle license in Tennessee, you will need to submit the following documents to the DSHS:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence in the U.S.
- One primary and one secondary proof of identity.
- Two proofs of Tennessee residency with your name and address from the last four months.
- Proof of Social Security Number (SSN) or a sworn affidavit stating that no SSN was issued.
- Proof of legal name change (if applicable).
- Teenage Affidavit/Financial Responsibility, completed and signed (applicable to minors without another class of driver's license only).
- Proof of School Attendance/Progress (applicable to minors without another class of driver's license only).
- Certification of 50 Hours Behind the Wheel Driving Experience, completed and signed (applicable to minors seeking a motorcycle endorsement only) .
How to Get a Motorcycle License in Tennessee
To obtain a motorcycle license in Tennessee, you will need to visit a DSHS driver services center in person. Follow these steps:
- Gather the necessary application materials.
- Head to the DSHS licensing office and submit your application.
- Take the required exams, including the vision exam, knowledge-based exam, and driving skills exam.
- If successful, have your license photo taken.
- Wait to receive your new motorcycle license or license with a motorcycle endorsement .
Getting a Tennessee Motorcycle License as a New Resident
If you have recently moved to Tennessee, you must transfer your existing motorcycle license to a Tennessee license within 30 days of moving to the state. You can also transfer your motorcycle permit to Tennessee if you meet the state's requirements. As a new resident, you will need to take a vision exam before completing the license transfer. The required documentation includes a current and valid driver's license, proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence, proof of identity, proofs of Tennessee residency, proof of Social Security Number (SSN), and proof of legal name change (if applicable) .
Required Motorcycle Classes in Tennessee
While enrolling in motorcycle classes is not mandatory in Tennessee, it is highly encouraged by the DSHS. By participating in the Tennessee Certified Motorcycle Rider Education Program (MREP) or an equivalent course approved by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF), you can receive multiple benefits.
Drivers who pass an MREP motorcycle safety course are exempt from taking both the state's knowledge-based and skills-based exams. Those who have completed an MSF-approved program can skip the skills-based exam only. To qualify for these benefits, the course must have been completed within the last three years. Additionally, Tennessee law requires auto insurance providers to offer a 10 percent discount on the cost of liability insurance to drivers who have taken approved classes.
Tennessee DMV Motorcycle Test Details
Before taking any DMV motorcycle test in Tennessee, it is important to familiarize yourself with the motorcycle handbook and ensure you are comfortable riding a motorcycle. All drivers are required to take a written knowledge-based motorcycle test, a skills-based driving exam, and a vision test. The only exception to this rule is for drivers who have completed state-approved education programs. New drivers must also pass the Regular Rules of the Road knowledge test .
Written Motorcycle License Test
The written motorcycle license test in Tennessee is a multiple-choice exam that covers important safety and operation topics outlined in the state's motorcycle driver's manual. The exam is taken in a computerized format, and if not passed on the first attempt, it can be retaken once every seven days.
Motorcycle Driving Test
All permit and license applicants in Tennessee must complete a motorcycle driving test. When you feel ready, contact the nearest DSHS office to schedule an appointment for the road exam. This exam assesses your ability to safely operate a motorcycle on public roadways under various conditions.
Do You Need a Motorcycle License to Drive a Scooter in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, drivers do not need a motorcycle license or endorsement to operate motorized bicycles or tricycles with engines smaller than 50cc. However, a motorcycle license is required to drive a motorcycle with an engine larger than 50cc. Typical Tennessee licenses cover motorcycles with engines over 125cc. For drivers who wish to operate bikes with smaller engines between 51cc and 125cc, the DSHS issues a separate license known as the Class M-Limited Motor-Driven Cycle license .
Tennessee Motorcycle License Costs
The cost of obtaining a motorcycle license in Tennessee varies depending on the type of license or endorsement you are applying for. Here is a breakdown of the fees published by the DSHS:
- Class M - License for the operation of motorcycles: $29
- Class PM - Learner's permit for the operation of motorcycles (minors only): $6.50
- Class DM - Operator and motorcycle endorsement combination license: $55
- Class XM - Temporary license for the operation of motorcycles: $20.50 At [Our Company Name], we hope this comprehensive guide has provided you with all the information you need to apply for a new motorcycle license or permit in Tennessee. Remember to gather the required documents, complete the necessary exams, and follow the application process outlined by the DSHS. Safe riding!