Virginia motorcycle permit test
Virginia gives riders 19 and older a way around the learner's permit entirely: finish the Rider Training Program and you can legally ride for 30 days on your existing driver's license before ever holding a motorcycle specific credential.
- Endorsement
- Class M classification
- Questions
- 25 best available figure
- Correct to pass
- 20 20 of 25 (80%)
- Rider questions here
- 130 all free, all explained
Honest note: Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles does not publish the motorcycle test format anywhere we could confirm, so the 25 question count and pass mark of 20 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 Virginia Rider Training Program waives the road skills test, though the knowledge exam is still required Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, 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.