Straight answers to the most common questions about passing the MVD motorcycle knowledge exam.
The Arizona motorcycle knowledge test is widely described as 25 multiple-choice questions, and you must answer 20 correctly (80%) to pass. The Arizona Motorcycle Operator Manual does not print a question count, and a 30-question test that appears on some sites belongs to the standard Class G permit rather than the motorcycle test. Confirm the current format with the Arizona MVD before your visit.
You need 80% to pass - about 20 of 25 questions correct. The test is based entirely on the Arizona Motorcycle Operator Manual.
You need a Class M licence, or a Class M endorsement added to another licence such as a Class D operator licence. Arizona issues licences by class - M for motorcycle - and when class M is combined with another class it is shown as an endorsement on the back of the licence.
You may be issued an Arizona motorcycle instruction permit at 15 years and 6 months of age. To apply for a full motorcycle licence or endorsement you must be at least 16.
A motorcycle instruction permit is valid for 7 months. It can be renewed only one time within a 24-month period, and you must retake the written test if you renew an expired permit.
While riding on a motorcycle instruction permit you may not carry passengers, ride on freeways or interstate highways, or ride between sunset and sunrise (or any time there is not enough light to see persons or vehicles 500 feet away).
No. When you apply for your first Arizona licence or instruction permit with a motorcycle endorsement, you take a written motorcycle test based on the Arizona Motorcycle Operator Manual and a separate driver licence test based on the Arizona Driver License Manual.
Yes. The written motorcycle licence examination is available in English and Spanish. If you cannot take a written test, arrangements can be made for an oral examination; if you need an interpreter, you must provide one.
Arizona law requires a properly secured, DOT-approved helmet for operators and passengers who are under 18. A rider 18 or older may legally ride without a helmet, although the manual recommends one for every rider regardless of age.
Yes. Arizona law requires every motorcycle operator to wear protective glasses, goggles or a transparent face shield unless the motorcycle is equipped with a protective windshield. Windscreens on sport-style motorcycles are not considered protective windshields.
Yes. As an alternative to the MVD skills test you may take a Motorcycle Rider Course offered by MVD-authorized schools. The Certificate of Completion you receive eliminates the requirement to take both the knowledge and skills tests at MVD.
The skills test is a 10-15 minute demonstration of your riding ability on an off-street, 30-foot by 125-foot closed track. For two-wheel motorcycles it includes a cone weave and normal stop, a turn from a stop and U-turn, a quick stop, and an obstacle swerve.
Yes. If you take the test on a motorcycle of 100cc / 7 HP or less you receive a '2' restriction. To obtain an unrestricted licence you must test on a motorcycle greater than 100cc or 7 HP.
The Arizona Motorcycle Operator Manual recommends a minimum two-second following distance behind the vehicle ahead, opened up to three seconds or more when the pavement is slippery, you cannot see past the vehicle ahead, traffic is heavy, or you are riding at night.
The front brake can provide at least 70% of a motorcycle's total stopping power. The manual instructs you to use both brakes every time you slow or stop.
Arizona requires at least one rearview mirror, one horn audible for at least 200 feet, at least one brake, a seat and footrests for the operator (and a seat, footrests and handrails for a passenger), and a properly closed fuel tank cap.
New motorcycles sold in the USA since 1978 automatically run with the headlight on. The manual encourages using the headlight on high beam during daylight to maximize your visibility, and Arizona permits a modulating headlight during the day if it modulates at least 200 cycles per minute.
The Arizona Motorcycle Operator Manual is published by the Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division and is available free through azdot.gov. The motorcycle written test is drawn from it, so it is the book to study.
Source: Sources differ on this state's test details; the most credible consensus is shown. Confirm with the state agency. The Arizona motorcycle knowledge test is 25 questions - 20 correct (80%) to pass. A 30-question test belongs to the standard Class G permit, not the motorcycle test, so confirm the current format with the Arizona MVD.