What to do, what to bring, and what to expect at the MVD office — start to finish.
Operating a motorcycle in Arizona requires a Class M licence, or a Class M endorsement added to another licence. You first get a motorcycle instruction permit, practice under its restrictions, then pass a written knowledge test and an on-cycle skills test - or complete an MVD-authorized rider course that waives both tests.
The steps below follow the process in the Arizona Motorcycle Operator Manual and azdot.gov. Always confirm current fees and accepted documents with the Arizona MVD before you go.
You may be issued a motorcycle instruction permit at 15 years and 6 months of age. You must be at least 16 to apply for a full motorcycle licence or endorsement.
Apply at an MVD office or authorized third-party provider. When applying for your first Arizona licence or permit with a motorcycle endorsement you must pass the written motorcycle test and a separate driver licence test, and pass a vision screening.
The written motorcycle test is drawn from this manual. Use the free practice test and study guide on this site to prepare. The test is widely described as 25 questions with an 80% passing score (20 correct).
With a motorcycle permit you may not carry passengers, ride on freeways or interstate highways, or ride between sunset and sunrise. The permit is valid for 7 months and may be renewed only once within a 24-month period.
An applicant under 18 must have held the permit at least 6 months and either complete an MVD-approved motorcycle driver education program or have a parent or guardian certify at least 30 hours of motorcycle driving practice.
Pass the on-cycle skills test, a 10-15 minute demonstration on an off-street 30' x 125' closed track. Alternatively, completing a Motorcycle Rider Course from an MVD-authorized school earns a Certificate of Completion that eliminates both the knowledge and skills tests at MVD.
Check the official MVD page for current fees and accepted forms of payment.
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.