Free California Motorcycle Practice Test (2026)
Study for the California Class M1 license (Class M2 for mopeds and motorized bicycles) knowledge test: a California module on the state's helmet, permit and rider-course rules, core lessons on safe riding, instant explanations and a timed simulation.
California motorcycle license at a glance
You must pass the regular driver's knowledge test and the motorcycle knowledge test (80% passing score, based on the Motorcycle and Driver's Handbooks), plus a vision exam. You get three attempts per test; the number of questions is not published.
California motorcycle rules
| Rule | In California |
|---|---|
| Minimum age | 15 years 6 months for a motorcycle instruction permit. Applicants 15½ to 17½ also need driver education and training certificates, and everyone under 21 must first complete the CMSP rider course. Riders 21 and older don't need a permit before applying. |
| Helmet and eye protection | Universal helmet law: all riders and passengers on a motorcycle, motor-driven cycle or motorized bicycle must wear a U.S. DOT-compliant helmet meeting FMVSS 218 (VC §27803). Face or eye protection is strongly recommended in the handbook but is not listed as legally required. dmv.ca.gov |
| Rider training course | The California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP) training course, run by the California Highway Patrol, is required for riders under 21 and recommended for older riders. The Certificate of Completion of Motorcycle Training (DL 389) waives the DMV skills test and is valid for 12 months. dmv.ca.gov |
| Skills test waiver | Yes (required under 21) |
California motorcycle permit restrictions
- No carrying passengers.
- No freeway riding.
- No riding at night.
- Riders under 21 must hold the permit at least 6 months before getting the license; the application and fee are valid for 12 months.
How to get a California Class M1 license (Class M2 for mopeds and motorized bicycles)
- If you are 15½ to 17½, finish driver education and driver training (or already hold a Class C license).
- If you are under 21, complete the CMSP motorcycle training course and receive your DL 389 certificate.
- Complete the Driver's License or ID Card Application (a parent or guardian signs if you're under 18) and book a DMV appointment.
- At the DMV, show identity and residency documents, pay the $46 fee, pass the vision exam, have your fingerprint scanned and take a photo.
- Pass the driver's and motorcycle knowledge tests to get your permit; if you're under 21, hold it at least 6 months.
- Turn in your DL 389 (riders 21 and older may instead pass the DMV motorcycle skills test) to receive your M1 license.
Tip: Many motorcycle crashes involve a car turning left in front of the rider. Expect questions about being seen, lane position and intersections, in addition to the state rules above.
Sample California motorcycle questions
1. Which restrictions apply to a California motorcycle instruction permit?
- You may ride on freeways only in daylight
- You may carry one passenger who is 21 or older
- No riding at night, no freeway riding and no passengers
- You may ride at night if your headlight is on high beam
Show answer
Correct answer: No riding at night, no freeway riding and no passengers. The Class M1/M2 permit bans carrying passengers, freeway driving and nighttime driving. Source: dmv.ca.gov
2. Motorcycle applicants younger than what age must complete a CMSP training course before getting a motorcycle permit?
- 21
- 18
- 25
- 16
Show answer
Correct answer: 21. Applicants under 21 must complete a California Motorcyclist Safety Program course first; riders 21 and older are encouraged but not required to take it. Source: dmv.ca.gov
3. How long is the Certificate of Completion of Motorcycle Training (DL 389) valid?
- 30 days
- 6 months
- 24 months
- 12 months
Show answer
Correct answer: 12 months. The DL 389 is valid for 12 months from the issue date, so use it to waive the skills test within that time. Source: dmv.ca.gov
Topics covered on the knowledge test
- Protective gear: helmets, eye protection and clothing
- Controls, pre-ride inspection (T-CLOCS) and starting out
- Lane position, following distance and being seen
- Braking, swerving and cornering
- Intersections, blind spots and road hazards
- Carrying passengers and cargo
- Group riding, alcohol and fatigue
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a motorcycle permit if I'm 21 or older?
No. Riders 21 and older can apply directly for a motorcycle license and either turn in a DL 389 from a CMSP course or pass the DMV motorcycle skills test.
Can I ride a three-wheel motorcycle with a regular Class C license?
Yes. The Motorcycle Handbook says Class C licensees may operate a motorcycle with a sidecar attached, a three-wheel motorcycle or a motorized scooter.
What if I have never had any driver's license?
If you apply for a motorcycle-only license and have never been licensed for any vehicle, you may also have to pass an observation test, where an examiner watches you ride a set route near the DMV office.
Is this motorcycle practice test free?
Yes. Every lesson, practice round and simulation is free, with no sign-up.
More California tests
California DMV practice test California road signs test California CDL test DMV handbooks
Official sources
- Official California Motorcycle Handbook (DL 665)
- California rider training
- California Department of Motor Vehicles
The California rules and questions on this page were checked in October 2026 against the official motorcycle manual, the California Department of Motor Vehicles website or California law. When a detail is not published by an official source, we leave it out instead of guessing. Confirm current rules with the California Department of Motor Vehicles. PracticePermit.us is not affiliated with any government agency. How we write and check our questions.
Leave a Reply
More free practice tests