Our last post was about motorcycle safety, so in this one, we will focus on how to get a motorcycle license here in Ohio.
Some of you might be thinking about getting a motorcycle to head out and enjoy the scenic roads of Southern Ohio this summer. The Ohio motorcycle licensing process isn’t complex. In just a few steps, you can get a motorcycle license or a motorcycle endorsement on your existing license.
How to get a Motorcycle License in Ohio over 18
The licensing process involves a knowledge exam and a riding test. If you have an Ohio driver’s license already, you can have a motorcycle endorsement added. If you don’t have an Ohio driver’s license, you can get a motorcycle specific license. The requirements differ for those under 18 years of age. The state of Ohio has easy-to-find resources online to help you figure out what to do.
The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) has a detailed motorcycle/motor scooter landing page on their website with all of the steps involved in getting licensed here in Ohio. The steps for those under 18 and over 18 are outlined. They also have information about where you should go to take care of each step and important documentation.
Check out the Ohio BMV motorcycle/motor scooter landing page here…
http://www.bmv.ohio.gov/dl-mo-motorcycle.aspx
This State of Ohio also has a website on motorcycle laws, with licensing information, and an extensive collection of useful links and resources for Ohio motorcycle riders. You can find the state website here…
http://www.motorcycle.ohio.gov/
Do you need a motorcycle license in Ohio
Yes… yes you do. Affirmative… y’sm! If you are caught operating a motorcycle in Ohio without a class M endorsement on your license the result is an M-1 misdemeanor ,with first time fines and fees up to or above $1,000, as well as possible community service (up to 500 hours). Subsequent offenses can result in fines of up to $1,000, and up to six months in jail.
If you decide to get a motorcycle license this summer, ride safely and, most importantly, have fun! Riding around the wooded, scenic, roads surrounding Chillicothe and throughout Southern Ohio can be very relaxing. Be sure to watch out for other drivers and obey Ohio traffic laws. We would rather you not find yourself injured in a motorcycle accident this summer requiring our help.
If you do need our help following an injury accident, give us a call or submit an email HERE.
