Michael Pines | October 3, 2025 | California Law
In California, you can start riding a motorcycle as young as 16 — but there are a few important steps before you hit the road legally. Teens can apply for a learner’s permit at 15 ½, but they’ll need to hold that permit for at least six months before they can qualify for a full motorcycle license.
The process is different for minors than it is for adults. There are extra rules in place to help keep younger riders safe, especially since motorcycle crashes often lead to serious injuries. If you’re a parent, it’s essential to consider carefully whether your teen is ready for the responsibility of riding. A split-second decision on the road can have lifelong consequences.
This guide breaks down what you need to know about getting a motorcycle license in California, age requirements, and what to do if a crash happens.
How Old Does a Passenger Have to Be to Ride on a Motorcycle in California?
There is no age limit for passengers riding on a motorcycle in California. The passenger must sit on a secure seat behind the driver or in a sidecar designed to carry passengers. Their feet must be able to reach and rest on the foot pegs while riding on the back of the motorcycle.
When transporting children on motorcycles, riders should be aware of the dangers to the child. Given that a child’s reaction time to changing road conditions may be slower than that of an adult, motorcyclists should reduce their speed and increase the distance between their motorcycle and other vehicles. Also, the added weight of a passenger may change how the bike handles and stops.
Motorcycle License Requirements in California
There are three types of California motorcycle licenses issued to riders:
- Class M1: allows a rider to operate any two-wheel motorcycle, motorized scooter, motor-driven cycle, and all vehicles allowed with a Class M2 license
- Class M2: allows a rider to operate any motorized scooter, moped, or bicycle.
The motorcycle licensing requirements in California depend on your age. The age brackets are:
- Minors between the ages of 15 ½ and 17 years old
- Adults 18 to 20 years old
- Adults 21 years old and older
Below are the general requirements for a California motorcycle license, with notes about each of the three age categories:
Driver Education or Training Certificates
Minors between the ages of 15 ½ and 17 years old must complete driver education and driving training courses to obtain a motorcycle license.
Hold Onto an Instruction Permit for at Least Six Months
Minors and adults under the age of 21 must apply for a motorcycle instruction permit. They must have the permit for a minimum of six months before they can apply for an M1 or M2 license.
Motorcycle Instruction Permit Restrictions
The motorcycle instruction permit has several restrictions. Drivers cannot operate a motorcycle on the freeway or at night. They are not permitted to carry passengers while driving with an instruction permit.
Certificates of Completion of Motorcycle Training
All minors and adults under 21 years old must provide certificates of completion of motorcycle training to obtain an M1 or M2 license. Adults 21 years of age and older are generally not required to complete the California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP) training course, but are strongly encouraged to do so.
Parent or Guardian Signature
A parent or guardian is required to sign, granting permission for their child to apply for a motorcycle license in California. If a parent or guardian refuses to sign, the minor must wait until they are an adult to apply for a motorcycle license.
Pass a Vision Exam and Supply Fingerprints
All applicants are required to provide their fingerprints when applying for a motorcycle license. They must also pass the vision examination before receiving their license.
Pass the Applicable Knowledge and Skills Tests
Knowledge and skills tests ensure that applicants understand the traffic laws, including motorcycle laws specifically designed for motorcycles. A skills test measures whether a rider can safely operate a motorcycle on the road. All applicants must pass both tests.
Motorcycle Insurance Requirements and Helmet Laws in California
Motorcycle helmets significantly reduce the risk of a head injury during a motorcycle crash. California Vehicle Code §27803 requires all riders and passengers to wear a USDOT-compliant motorcycle helmet. Other motorcycle gear can reduce the risk of severe injuries in an accident, including riding clothes, leather jackets, boots, and gloves.
Motorcyclists must also purchase the required motorcycle liability insurance for riders in California. Liability insurance coverage compensates accident victims when a driver is at fault for a collision.
Contact Pines Salomon Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation With a San Diego Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcyclists are often treated unfairly after a motorcycle accident in California. Insurance companies often blame the rider even though the accident was not their fault. If you were injured in a crash, talk with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer at Pines Salomon Personal Injury Lawyers. We offer a free consultation.
For more information, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer at Pines Salomon Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation today.
We proudly serve San Diego County and its surrounding areas:
Pines Salomon Injury Lawyers – San Diego Office
835 5th Avenue #302, San Diego, CA 92101
(858) 551-2090
Available 24/7
Pines Salomon Injury Lawyers – La Jolla Office
4660 La Jolla Village Dr. San Diego, CA 92122
(858) 585-9031
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