Straight answers to the most common questions about passing the DVS motorcycle knowledge exam.
The Minnesota motorcycle knowledge test has 25 multiple-choice questions. The questions cover driving laws, rules of the road, and information specific to two-wheeled vehicles.
You need 20 of the 25 questions correct — 80%. The motorcycle knowledge test is separate from the standard Class D license written test.
You take it in person at a Minnesota driver examination station. The knowledge test may be taken only once per day.
You must hold a valid Minnesota driver's license, pass the motorcycle knowledge test to get an instruction permit, then pass the on-cycle skills test (or have it waived by completing a Basic Rider Course at age 18 or older).
The motorcycle instruction permit/endorsement fee is $29. Renewing a two-wheel motorcycle endorsement later costs an added $17 on top of your license fee.
One year. If your permit expires, you must retake the knowledge test and pay the fee for a new permit.
You must wear a DOT-approved helmet and eye protection, you may not carry passengers, and you may not ride at night — defined as one-half hour after sunset to one-half hour before sunrise. Since August 2018, permit holders may ride on interstate highways.
Riders under 18 must complete a state-approved Basic Rider Course before taking the motorcycle knowledge and skills tests. Riders 18 and older are not required to, but completing the BRC waives the on-cycle skills test.
A DOT-approved helmet is required for operators and passengers under 18 and for anyone operating on a motorcycle instruction permit. Riders 18 and older with an endorsement are not required to wear one, though the Department of Public Safety strongly recommends it for everyone.
Yes. All motorcyclists must wear protective eyewear — glasses, goggles, or a face shield — even if the motorcycle has a windscreen. Contact lenses do not qualify as eye protection.
Yes. Minnesota law requires the operator to have the headlight on at all times when riding.
No. Operators may not ride between lanes of moving or stationary vehicles headed in the same direction.
Your valid driver's license and motorcycle permit, a properly equipped motorcycle with current registration and insurance, a DOT-approved helmet and eye protection, and — if you are under 18 — a certificate of completion from an approved rider training course. You will not be allowed to test without all of these.
Effective November 2021, if you fail to appear for a skills test appointment, or fail to cancel within 24 hours, a $20 no-show fee is added to your application fees.
Take the Minnesota motorcycle knowledge test (you can take it at the same time as the driver's license knowledge test). The skills test is waived when you pass, and a $29 endorsement fee is added to your license cost. New residents have 60 days to register their motorcycle.
A minimum of two seconds behind the vehicle ahead — open it to three seconds or more on slippery roads, at night, or when you cannot see past the vehicle ahead.
The front brake can provide 70% or more of your total stopping power. Always use both brakes every time you slow or stop.
The Minnesota Motorcycle and Motorized Bicycle Manual is free to read or download at drive.mn.gov. The knowledge-test questions come from it and from the Minnesota Driver's Manual.
Source: Test details reflect the consensus of major rider-education sources — confirm with the state agency before your visit. The motorcycle knowledge test is 25 questions — 20 correct (80%) to pass. The 40-question exam is for the standard Class D license, not the motorcycle test.