New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
New York motorcycle permit test
How the New York motorcycle endorsement works, plus free rider practice on the same questions used nationwide.
- Full rider practice test25 question practice run drawn from 130, pass with 20
- Cornering, braking and swerving19 questions, every answer explained
- Lane position and being seen22 questions, every answer explained
- Surface hazards21 questions, every answer explained
- Gear and the pre ride check22 questions, every answer explained
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 below.
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.
The format on file, and what is confirmed
New York tests car and motorcycle applicants on the very same 20 question, 14 correct exam, but it layers on an extra rule just for that exam: no matter how high the overall score is, at least two of the four road sign questions must be right.
Checked against the agency
Format verified against New York State DMV, Driver's Manual Chapter 1 on 2026-08-28. Check the official page before you book.
Does a course skip the test?
The on-cycle skills test ordinarily required for a Class M license can be waived by completing an approved Motorcycle Safety Foundation Basic RiderCourse or the shorter BRC2 license-waiver course, provided the rider already holds a valid NY driver license and a motorcycle learner permit
New York State DMV, Motorcycle Safety Program Manual (MV-21MC), checked 2026-08-28.