Before you buy a motorcycle to tour the picturesque roads of Florida, you need to get yourself a motorcycle driving license.
Florida’s laws clearly state that driving a motorcycle without a valid driving license is a violation of the law.
But what are the different types of motorcycle licenses that you can have in Florida? Let’s explore the options you have.
Different Types of Motorcycle Licenses in Florida
Most states in the US have different statutes in regard to motorcycle licenses. In Florida, the state offers two ways in which the law allows you to ride a motorcycle. These two ways include:
- Owning a motorcycle-only license
- Having a motorcycle endorsement on an existing license
Motorcycle-only License
A motorcycle-only license in Florida allows you to ride a motorcycle. This is the type of license you apply for when you do not have a driving license but would like to own a motorcycle in the future.
There are various requirements that you need to meet before you can be issued with a motorcycle-only license. One of the requirements is that you must be 16 years of age or older.
To obtain a motorcycle-only license, you will also need to meet the following requirements:
- First, if you are younger than 18, you will have to obtain a learner’s permit and hold it for at least a year without violating any traffic rules.
- You will then need to pass a knowledge exam that is similar to the Class E vehicle driver’s license exam. This is required as motorcycle riders need to follow all the traffic rules, just like all other drivers.
- You must take part in and pass a Basic Rider Course (BRC) or Basic Rider Course Update (BRCu). These courses equip riders with information about how to operate a motorcycle and how to stay safe while doing so.
- After completing the course, you will be required to go to the Florida Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for motorcycle license issuance. The license will be issued upon payment of the required fees.
Motorcycle Endorsement
If you already have an existing Class E driving license, you are required to obtain a motorcycle endorsement on your driving license. The endorsement is usually added to your driving license, giving you the opportunity to ride your motorcycle in Florida.
However, before adding the motorcycle endorsement to your existing driving license, you will need to complete the following:
- You must be a valid holder of a Class E driving license to show that you are aware of all the traffic rules.
- You will be required to complete either the BRC or BRCu course. Whichever you complete is dependent on your personal preference.
- You will be required to visit the Florida Department of Motor Vehicles to have the endorsement added to your driving license. Note that you will be required to pay endorsement fees for the service.
The Things You Need to Ride a Motorcycle in Florida
After acquiring a motorcycle-only license or motorcycle endorsement on your driving license, there are a few other things that are required to ensure that you have a great ride.
One of the things is that if your motorcycle is new, you will need to obtain a license plate for your motorcycle.
For this, you are required to visit the Department of Motor Vehicles to acquire a plate for your new ride. The local DMV will ask for proper documentation and register your motorcycle.
In addition, while Florida does not require motorcycle insurance, you should acquire insurance for your motorcycle. This will help you get compensation for losses incurred in case you are involved in an accident.
