Motorcycle knowledge test (Class M) · California DMV
Vehicle types, license and tests
Questions and answers
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A motorcycle is a motor vehicle with a seat or saddle for the rider. On how many wheels is it designed to travel?
Not more than three
The definition covers vehicles designed to travel on up to three wheels, so three-wheelers count as motorcycles.
Two-Wheel Vehicle Operation · Motorcycles ↗ -
What makes a motorcycle a motor-driven cycle?
A motor size of less than 150 cc
A motor-driven cycle is a motorcycle whose motor is smaller than 150 cc.
Two-Wheel Vehicle Operation · Motor-Driven Cycles ↗ -
You ride a 125 cc motor-driven cycle. A freeway entrance has a sign prohibiting motor-driven cycles. May you enter?
No, you may not ride there when such signs are posted
A motor-driven cycle may not be operated on a freeway or expressway where signs prohibit it.
Two-Wheel Vehicle Operation · Motor-Driven Cycles ↗ -
According to the license class chart, why are vehicles with a motor under 150 cc unsuited to freeways?
They lack the engine capability to be driven there safely
The chart notes that motors under 150 cc do not have the engine capability for safe freeway or expressway driving.
License Requirements · Motorcycle Type - License Class Chart ↗ -
What is the highest speed a motorized bicycle or moped is capable of on level ground?
30 mph
A moped is a device capable of no more than 30 mph on level ground.
Two-Wheel Vehicle Operation · Motorized Bicycles or Moped ↗ -
What kind of motor and transmission does a moped have?
Less than four gross brake horsepower and an automatic transmission
The moped definition calls for a motor under four gross brake horsepower with an automatic transmission.
Two-Wheel Vehicle Operation · Motorized Bicycles or Moped ↗ -
When may a moped have no pedals?
When it is powered solely by electrical energy
A moped normally has working pedals. It may have none only if it runs on electrical energy alone.
Two-Wheel Vehicle Operation · Motorized Bicycles or Moped ↗ -
When may a motorized bicycle be ridden in a bicycle lane?
When a local authority or ordinance authorizes it
Motorized bicycles may use a bicycle lane only where local authority or ordinance allows it.
Two-Wheel Vehicle Operation · Motorized Bicycles or Moped ↗ -
How powerful may the motor of an electric bicycle be?
Less than 750 watts
An electric bicycle has fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts.
Two-Wheel Vehicle Operation · Electric Bicycles ↗ -
On a Class 1 electric bicycle, when does the motor assist the rider?
Only while the rider pedals, and only up to 20 mph
Class 1 is pedal-assisted and the motor stops helping once 20 mph is reached.
Two-Wheel Vehicle Operation · Electric Bicycles ↗ -
Which class of electric bicycle is throttle-assisted?
Class 2
Class 2 has a motor that can propel the bicycle by throttle, with no assistance at 20 mph or above.
Two-Wheel Vehicle Operation · Electric Bicycles ↗ -
At what speed does the motor of a Class 3 electric bicycle stop assisting?
28 mph
Class 3 is pedal-assisted and the assistance ends at 28 mph.
Two-Wheel Vehicle Operation · Electric Bicycles ↗ -
Which piece of equipment is part of the definition of a Class 3 electric bicycle?
A speedometer
A Class 3 electric bicycle is equipped with a speedometer.
Two-Wheel Vehicle Operation · Electric Bicycles ↗ -
How old must the operator of a Class 3 electric bicycle be?
16 years old or older
The operator of a Class 3 electric bicycle must be at least 16.
Two-Wheel Vehicle Operation · Electric Bicycles ↗ -
What must the operator of a Class 3 electric bicycle wear?
A bicycle safety helmet
A bicycle safety helmet is required for the operator of a Class 3 electric bicycle.
Two-Wheel Vehicle Operation · Electric Bicycles ↗ -
A friend asks for a lift on your Class 3 electric bicycle. Is that allowed?
No, the operator must not transport passengers
The operator of a Class 3 electric bicycle must not carry passengers.
Two-Wheel Vehicle Operation · Electric Bicycles ↗ -
Which requirements are all classes of electric bicycle exempt from?
Financial responsibility, a driver’s license, and license plates
Electric bicycles of every class are exempt from the financial responsibility, driver’s license, and license plate requirements.
Two-Wheel Vehicle Operation · Electric Bicycles ↗ -
When may a moped be ridden on a bicycle path or trail?
When the path is on or next to a road, or local law gives permission
Mopeds are barred from bicycle paths and trails unless the path is on or beside a road or local law permits the use.
Two-Wheel Vehicle Operation · TWO-WHEEL VEHICLE OPERATION ↗ -
Which class of electric bicycle is named in the ban on riding on hiking, horse, and recreational trails?
Class 3
The trail ban names mopeds, motorized bicycles, and Class 3 electric bicycles.
Two-Wheel Vehicle Operation · TWO-WHEEL VEHICLE OPERATION ↗ -
A trail bike that falls within the definition of a motorcycle is ridden on a highway. What applies to it?
The applicable equipment, registration, financial responsibility, and licensing requirements
Minibikes, trail bikes, and similar vehicles operated on a highway must meet the same kinds of requirements as other motorcycles.
Two-Wheel Vehicle Operation · TWO-WHEEL VEHICLE OPERATION ↗ -
To which two-wheel vehicles do the basic rules of the road in the Vehicle Code apply?
All of them, including mopeds and motorized bicycles
The basic rules of the road apply to every two-wheel vehicle.
Two-Wheel Vehicle Operation · TWO-WHEEL VEHICLE OPERATION ↗ -
Which feature is part of the definition of a motorized scooter?
A floorboard for standing on when riding
A motorized scooter is a two-wheeled device with a motor, handlebars, and a floorboard to stand on.
Two-Wheel Vehicle Operation · Motorized Scooter ↗ -
Which driver’s license do you need to ride a motorized scooter?
Any class of driver’s license
A motorized scooter may be driven with a driver’s license of any class.
Two-Wheel Vehicle Operation · Motorized Scooter ↗ -
May you take the motorcycle skills test on a motorized scooter?
No, a motorized scooter may not be used for a skills test
A motorized scooter cannot be used to take a skills test.
Two-Wheel Vehicle Operation · Motorized Scooter ↗ -
What does the handbook say about the exhaust system of a motorized scooter?
It must not be modified or altered
The exhaust system of a motorized scooter must be left unmodified.
Two-Wheel Vehicle Operation · Motorized Scooter ↗ -
A motorized scooter may have a driver seat. What condition applies to the seat?
It cannot interfere with the operator’s ability to stand and ride
A seat is optional, but it must not get in the way of standing and riding.
Two-Wheel Vehicle Operation · Motorized Scooter ↗ -
Which of these may be operated with a Class C license alone?
A motorcycle with a sidecar attached
Class C licensees may operate a motorcycle with a sidecar, a three-wheel motorcycle, or a motorized scooter.
License Requirements · LICENSE REQUIREMENTS ↗ -
Which license class lets you operate any two-wheel motorcycle?
Class M1
Class M1 covers any two-wheel motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or motorized scooter.
License Requirements · LICENSE REQUIREMENTS ↗ -
What may you operate with a Class M2 license?
A motorized bicycle, moped, or motorized scooter
Class M2 is limited to motorized bicycles, mopeds, and motorized scooters.
License Requirements · LICENSE REQUIREMENTS ↗ -
You hold a Class M1 license and want to ride a moped. Do you also need a Class M2?
No, Class M1 covers every vehicle listed under Class M2
A Class M1 license includes all vehicles listed under Class M2.
License Requirements · LICENSE REQUIREMENTS ↗ -
A person with a valid California driver’s license of any class rents a motorized bicycle for one day. What does the license chart say?
They may ride it without a Class M2 endorsement or a special examination
A short-term rental motorized bicycle may be ridden on any class of California driver’s license.
License Requirements · Motorcycle Type - License Class Chart ↗ -
For how long may a rental motorized bicycle be ridden without a Class M2 endorsement under the short-term rental rule?
48 hours or less
The exception covers short-term rentals of 48 hours or less.
License Requirements · Motorcycle Type - License Class Chart ↗ -
Besides the motorcycle knowledge test, which knowledge test must an applicant for a Class M1 or M2 license pass?
The driver’s knowledge test
You must pass both the driver’s knowledge test and the motorcycle knowledge test.
License Requirements · Earning Your License ↗ -
Which books are the knowledge test questions based on?
The Motorcycle Handbook and the California Driver’s Handbook
Questions come from the information in both handbooks, so study both.
License Requirements · Earning Your License ↗ -
Where is the motorcycle skills test conducted?
In an actual traffic environment or in a controlled off-street area
The skills test takes place either in real traffic or in a controlled off-street area.
License Requirements · Earning Your License ↗ -
Why does the handbook call testing the best measurement of riding skill?
People often overestimate their own abilities
Riders tend to rate their own skills too highly, so objectively scored tests are used.
License Requirements · Earning Your License ↗ -
A motorcycle applicant is under 21. What must they do before receiving a motorcycle instruction permit?
Complete a California Motorcyclist Safety Program training course
Applicants under 21 must finish the CMSP training course before they can get a motorcycle instruction permit.
License Requirements · California Motorcyclist Safety Program Training Course ↗ -
An applicant for a motorcycle license is 22 years old. What does the handbook say about the CMSP training course?
It is encouraged but not required
For applicants 21 and older the course is recommended, not mandatory.
License Requirements · Requirements for a Motorcycle M1 or M2 License ↗ -
A 19-year-old applies for a motorcycle license. Which document must be submitted?
A Certificate of Completion of Motorcycle Training (DL 389)
Applicants who are 18 or older but under 21 must submit a DL 389 and pass both knowledge tests.
License Requirements · Requirements for a Motorcycle M1 or M2 License ↗ -
How long is a Certificate of Completion of Motorcycle Training (DL 389) valid?
12 months from the issue date
The DL 389 is good for 12 months counted from the day it was issued.
License Requirements · California Motorcyclist Safety Program Training Course ↗ -
Your DL 389 was issued 14 months ago and you bring it to DMV to have the skills test waived. Is the certificate still valid?
No, it was valid for only 12 months from the issue date
A DL 389 older than 12 months is no longer valid.
License Requirements · California Motorcyclist Safety Program Training Course ↗ -
What can completing the CMSP training course and submitting the DL 389 do for you at DMV?
The motorcycle skills test may be waived
With a valid DL 389 the DMV motorcycle skills test may be waived.
License Requirements · California Motorcyclist Safety Program Training Course ↗ -
You completed a motorcycle training program in another state. Will DMV waive the skills test on that basis?
No
DMV does not waive the skills test for an out-of-state motorcycle training program.
License Requirements · California Motorcyclist Safety Program Training Course ↗ -
You hold a course completion card issued for insurance purposes. Will DMV waive the skills test for it?
No, whether the card is in-state or out-of-state
A completion card for insurance purposes does not replace the DL 389.
License Requirements · California Motorcyclist Safety Program Training Course ↗ -
Which three things are prohibited under a Class M1/M2 instruction permit?
Carrying passengers, freeway driving, and nighttime driving
The permit bars passengers, freeways, and riding at night.
License Requirements · Requirements for a Motorcycle M1 or M2 License ↗ -
You hold a motorcycle instruction permit. At midday a friend asks for a short ride on a quiet street. May you take them?
No, a permit holder may not carry passengers
Carrying a passenger is not allowed on an instruction permit at any time.
License Requirements · Requirements for a Motorcycle M1 or M2 License ↗ -
You hold a motorcycle instruction permit and a visit runs late. May you ride home after dark?
No, nighttime driving is not allowed on the permit
The instruction permit does not allow riding at night.
License Requirements · Requirements for a Motorcycle M1 or M2 License ↗ -
The quickest way to your practice area is two exits on the freeway. May you take it on an instruction permit?
No, freeway driving is not allowed on the permit
Freeway riding is one of the three permit restrictions.
License Requirements · Requirements for a Motorcycle M1 or M2 License ↗ -
For how long must an applicant under 21 have an instruction permit, according to the requirements table?
At least 6 months
The table lists a permit held for at least 6 months for minors and for adults aged 18 to 20.
License Requirements · Requirements for a Motorcycle M1 or M2 License ↗ -
A 16-year-old applies for a motorcycle license. Whose signature is required on the application?
A parent’s or guardian’s
A minor’s application needs the signature of a parent or guardian.
License Requirements · Requirements for a Motorcycle M1 or M2 License ↗ -
A 16-year-old applicant has no Class C license. Besides the DL 389, what proof must they bring?
Completion of both driver education and driver training
Minors must show driver education and driver training completion, or hold a Class C license.
License Requirements · Requirements for a Motorcycle M1 or M2 License ↗ -
What is the youngest age at which the requirements table lists a minor applicant for a motorcycle license?
15½ years old
The requirements for minors start at 15½ years old.
License Requirements · Requirements for a Motorcycle M1 or M2 License ↗ -
Who must take an observation road test?
Applicants never licensed before who apply for a motorcycle only license
The observation road test is for first-time licensees who want a motorcycle only license.
License Requirements · Requirements for a Motorcycle M1 or M2 License ↗ -
How does the examiner watch you during the observation test?
From a preselected vantage point, usually on a corner near the DMV office
The examiner stays at a chosen spot near the field office and observes you ride.
License Requirements · Motorcycle Skills Test ↗ -
What kind of route are you told to follow in the observation test?
One that keeps you in view for the longest period of time
The route is chosen so the examiner can see you for as long as possible.
License Requirements · Motorcycle Skills Test ↗ -
What happens if you use a testing aid during the knowledge test?
The test is marked as a failure
Any use of a testing aid means the knowledge test is marked as failed, and DMV may also act against your driving privilege.
License Requirements · Cheating ↗ -
May you look at the California Driver’s Handbook during the knowledge test?
No, it is a prohibited testing aid
Both handbooks, cheat sheets, and electronic devices such as cell phones are prohibited testing aids.
License Requirements · Cheating ↗ -
Someone helps you cheat during the examination process. What may happen to that person?
DMV may take action against their driving privilege
DMV may act against the driving privilege of anyone who assists in cheating.
License Requirements · Cheating ↗ -
How is the motorcycle skills test graded?
Pass or fail
The skills test is a pass/fail test.
License Requirements · Motorcycle Skills Test ↗ -
What are you asked to do in the pre-trip inspection of the skills test?
Identify items on your motorcycle such as the kill switch, throttle, and horn
You point out listed controls and equipment on your own motorcycle.
License Requirements · Motorcycle Skills Test ↗ -
Which of these is NOT on the list of items you identify in the pre-trip inspection?
Fuel gauge
The list is starter, kill switch, clutch, throttle, gear selector, headlight dimmer switch, brakes, turn signals, and horn.
License Requirements · Motorcycle Skills Test ↗ -
How many traffic cones do you weave through in the serpentine ride?
Five
The serpentine ride uses a row of five cones.
License Requirements · Motorcycle Skills Test ↗ -
On which side of the first cone does the serpentine ride begin?
On the right
You start to the right of the first cone and weave from there.
License Requirements · Motorcycle Skills Test ↗ -
In the circle ride that follows the serpentine ride, how many times and in which direction do you ride the circle?
Twice, clockwise
The circle ride is two laps in a clockwise direction.
License Requirements · Motorcycle Skills Test ↗ -
After the slow ride between the two parallel lines, how do you ride the circle?
Twice, counterclockwise
At the end of the slow ride you circle twice in a counterclockwise direction.
License Requirements · Motorcycle Skills Test ↗ -
During the slow ride, what must stay within the tracking path?
The front tire
You ride slowly between the lines and keep the front tire inside the tracking path.
License Requirements · Motorcycle Skills Test ↗ -
On which motorcycles is the gear shift ride performed?
Only on motorcycles with a clutch and gears
The gear shift ride is skipped for motorcycles without a clutch and gears.
License Requirements · Motorcycle Skills Test ↗ -
Which maneuver is part of the gear shift ride?
A U-turn
You ride straight, shift up and down, make a U-turn, return while shifting again, and stop smoothly.
License Requirements · Motorcycle Skills Test ↗ -
How wide is the inside of the parallel ride lane used in the skills test?
One foot
The parallel ride lane is one foot wide on the inside.
License Requirements · Motorcycle Skills Test ↗ -
How wide is the inside of the circle ride lane?
Two feet
The circle ride lane is two feet wide on the inside.
License Requirements · Motorcycle Skills Test ↗ -
What is the diameter of the outside circle on the skills test course?
Twenty-four feet
The outside circle measures twenty-four feet across.
License Requirements · Motorcycle Skills Test ↗ -
How far apart are the cones on the skills test course?
Twelve feet
The cones are spaced twelve feet apart.
License Requirements · Motorcycle Skills Test ↗ -
How wide is the area for the cones on the skills test course?
Eight feet
The cone area is eight feet wide. Twelve feet is the spacing between cones.
License Requirements · Motorcycle Skills Test ↗ -
In the skills test, are the tracking lines themselves part of the tracking path?
Yes, the path is the area within and including the lines
The tracking path is the area inside the tracking lines together with the lines.
License Requirements · Motorcycle Skills Test ↗ -
Is studying the Motorcycle Handbook alone enough to prepare for licensing?
No, study the California Driver’s Handbook as well
The Motorcycle Handbook supplements the California Driver’s Handbook, so both should be studied.
Introduction · INTRODUCTION ↗ -
The handbook describes itself as a summary. What do DMV, law enforcement, and the courts follow?
The full and exact language of the law in the Vehicle Code
The handbook only summarizes laws and regulations. The Vehicle Code is what counts.
Introduction · INTRODUCTION ↗
Questions and answers by topic
- Riding gear and your motorcycle78
- Basic vehicle control43
- Lane position, distance and passing48
- SEE, intersections and parking35
- Being seen and riding at night39
- Quick stops, swerving and cornering29
- Dangerous surfaces and mechanical problems61
- Passengers, cargo and group riding62
- Alcohol, fatigue and the law43