Minnesota motorcycle permit test
Minnesota runs a dedicated evening testing program where select DVS exam stations stay open from 5 to 7 p.m. one night a week purely for motorcycle skills tests, on top of the standard Basic Rider Course skills-test waiver.
- Endorsement
- Motorcycle endorsement
- Questions
- 40 best available figure
- Correct to pass
- 32 32 of 40 (80%), a format DPS does not publish on its motorcycle pages
- Rider questions here
- 130 all free, all explained
Honest note: Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Driver and Vehicle Services Division does not publish the motorcycle test format anywhere we could confirm, so the 40 question count and pass mark of 32 are the best available figures rather than verified facts. The riding knowledge below is the same either way. Confirm the format with the agency before your appointment.
The rider course rule. Completing the Minnesota Motorcycle Safety Center's Basic Rider Course waives the riding skills test for the motorcycle endorsement, though the state knowledge test for the instruction permit still has to be passed separately either way. Minnesota DPS, Motorcycle license page, checked 2026-08-28.
Rider drills
Riding technique does not change at a state line, so these drills are the same wherever you ride. What changes is the paperwork above.
Controls and basic operation
Clutch, throttle, both brakes, the friction zone and starting on a hill.
Gear and the pre ride check
Helmets, eye protection, what to wear, and the checks before you set off.
Lane position and being seen
The three lane positions, following distance and staying out of blind spots.
Surface hazards
Gravel, paint, metal, rail crossings and everything that matters more on two wheels.
Cornering, braking and swerving
Countersteering, entry speed, braking in a curve and choosing swerve over brake.
Passengers, groups and impairment
Carrying a passenger or cargo, staggered formation, alcohol, fatigue and weather.