Straight answers to the most common questions about passing the ALEA motorcycle knowledge exam.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency does not publish the exact question count on its official page. Major rider-education sources consistently report about 30 multiple-choice questions, with an 80% passing score — about 24 correct. Confirm the current format with your local ALEA driver license office before you test.
The widely reported passing score is 80%. On a 30-question test that is 24 correct answers. Every question is drawn from the Alabama Motorcycle Manual.
The knowledge test questions are based on the information, practices and ideas in the Alabama Motorcycle Manual — safe riding practices and the rules of the road. It covers gear, controls, lane positioning, the SEE strategy, turning, braking, hazards, and alcohol and drugs.
Yes. To earn your license you must pass both a knowledge test and an on-cycle skill test. The skill test checks basic vehicle control and crash-avoidance skills — accelerating, braking, turning, and completing normal and quick stops and swerves. It is given in traffic or in a controlled, off-street area.
You need a Class M driver license. The 'Class M' designation must appear on your license for you to legally operate a motorcycle or motor-driven cycle in Alabama.
You may be issued a Class M license to operate a motorcycle at age 16. A person at least 14 years old may apply for a restricted license to operate a motor-driven cycle (such as a moped, 5 horsepower or smaller, under 150 cc) only — this carries Restriction B until age 16.
Yes. Alabama law states that no person shall operate or ride upon a motorcycle or motor-driven cycle unless wearing approved protective headgear. The helmet requirement applies to every operator and passenger, regardless of age.
Alabama law does not require eye or face protection, but the state strongly encourages riders to use a plastic face shield attached to an approved helmet to protect the face and eyes. Alabama law does require that anyone operating or riding a motorcycle wear shoes.
No. Alabama law prohibits operating a motorcycle between lanes of traffic or between rows of vehicles.
Yes. Motorcycles are entitled to the full use of a traffic lane, and Alabama law allows motorcycles to be operated two abreast in a single lane. They may not be operated more than two abreast.
You may carry a passenger only if the motorcycle is designed and equipped with footpegs to carry more than one person. The passenger must ride on the permanent, regular seat.
Yes. Alabama law prohibits operating a motorcycle with handlebars more than 15 inches in height above the portion of the seat occupied by the operator.
Study the Alabama Motorcycle Manual published by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. The knowledge test questions are based directly on it. It is available online at alea.gov.
Motorcycle testing is handled by ALEA driver license examining offices. Information on the local examining schedule and testing location is available from your local probate judge, license commissioner, or driver license examining office, or online at alea.gov.
Yes. Alabama law requires every driver to have their driver license in possession at all times when operating a motor vehicle, and to display it on the demand of a peace officer, a state trooper, or a judge of any court.
Source: Test details reflect the consensus of major rider-education sources — confirm with the state agency before your visit. Question count is not published on the official ALEA page; about 30 questions and an 80% passing score is the consensus of major third-party study sites. The knowledge test is based on the Alabama Motorcycle Manual.