Alaska Motorcycle Knowledge Test — FAQ

The State of Alaska Motorcycle Manual does not publish an exact question count, and the Alaska DMV does not list one on its motorcycle-license page. Major rider-education sources consistently describe a test of about 25 multiple-choice questions. Study every topic in the manual rather than counting on a fixed number.

The widely cited passing standard is 80% — about 20 of 25 questions correct. The manual itself does not state a passing score, so confirm the current standard with the Alaska DMV before your visit.

No. Alaska motorcycle applicants take two written tests: a basic rules-of-the-road test and a separate motorcycle test based on the State of Alaska Motorcycle Manual. The rules-of-the-road test is waived if you already hold a valid license or instruction permit.

To operate a motorcycle with an engine of 50cc or more you need a Class M1 or M3 licence in addition to a regular licence. The M1 covers all sizes and is available at age 16 or older. A Class M2 licence lets a 14- or 15-year-old operate a motor-driven cycle or scooter under 50cc, and a Class M3 covers three-wheeled motorcycles.

Yes. Motorcycles and motor scooters with an engine displacement of less than 50cc can be operated with a basic Alaska driver licence — no M-class licence is required.

Completing a Motorcycle Safety Foundation course and presenting the completion certificate to the DMV waives the on-cycle road skills test — not the written test. The certificate is valid to waive the road test for one year. The MSF scooter test does not qualify.

Alaska has a partial helmet law. A helmet is required for any operator under 18, anyone operating on an instruction permit, and all passengers regardless of age. An operator who is 18 or older and holds a motorcycle licence or endorsement may legally ride without a helmet — though the manual strongly urges every rider to wear one.

For the on-cycle skills test, all applicants must wear eye protection if the motorcycle has no windshield. The manual stresses that a face shield or goggles protect you from wind, dust, insects and stones, and that a windshield is not a substitute for a face shield or goggles.

If you are under 18 and obtaining your first driver or M1/M3 licence, you must have held a permit for six months before you can obtain your provisional licence.

If you take the on-cycle skills test on a trike or a motorcycle with a sidecar, your licence will be restricted to three-wheeled motorcycles only. Testing with a sidecar qualifies for a Class M3 only.

The State of Alaska Motorcycle Manual recommends a four-second following distance behind the vehicle ahead. Open it up further on slippery roads, when you cannot see past the vehicle ahead, and at night.

The manual states that the best way to help others see your motorcycle is to keep the headlight on at all times. A motorcycle riding with its light off during the day is twice as likely to go unnoticed.

The front brake provides about three-quarters of a motorcycle's total stopping power. The manual instructs you to use both brakes every time you slow or stop, applying them at the same time.

Yes. Mandatory insurance and financial-responsibility laws apply to the operation of motorcycles of all types in Alaska. See the basic driver manual or the Alaska DMV for current requirements.

Knowledge and skills tests are handled at Alaska DMV field offices and commission-agent locations across the state, from Anchorage and Fairbanks to smaller communities. For the skills test you must provide the motorcycle, a helmet and eye protection yourself.

The State of Alaska Motorcycle Manual is published by the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles and is available free through the Alaska DMV. The motorcycle written test is drawn from it, so it is the book to study.