Straight answers to the most common questions about passing the DMV motorcycle knowledge exam.
The Nebraska motorcycle knowledge test is widely reported to have 25 multiple-choice questions, all based on the Nebraska Motorcycle Manual. The Nebraska DMV publishes the passing standard but not an official question count.
You need 80 percent to pass — about 20 of 25 questions correct. The 80% standard is confirmed by the Nebraska DMV.
Yes. Nebraska gives an on-cycle skills (drive) test in addition to the written test. The written motorcycle test, if required, must be passed before the skills test is given.
Yes. Successfully completing a Nebraska-approved motorcycle safety course (the MSF Basic RiderCourse) lets the DMV examiner waive BOTH the written and the drive test, as long as you apply within 24 months of completing the course.
You must hold a motorcycle license, motorcycle permit, or motorcycle endorsement. A Nebraska Class M license authorizes you to operate a motorcycle or a three-wheeled motor vehicle.
It is the beginning rider course Nebraska has adopted — at least 18 hours of instruction (a 3-hour e-course, at least 5 hours of classroom, and at least 10 hours of range riding). Course graduates may also qualify for lower insurance rates.
Nebraska has a universal helmet law: every motorcycle and moped operator and passenger must wear a helmet that meets U.S. Department of Transportation (FMVSS 218) standards, regardless of age.
The only exemption is for a rider who submits proof of completing an approved motorcycle safety course to the Nebraska DMV. Otherwise a helmet is required, and a violation is a traffic infraction with a $50 fine.
No — Nebraska law does not require eye or face protection. The manual still strongly recommends a face shield or goggles, because a windshield, eyeglasses, and sunglasses do not adequately protect your eyes.
No. Nebraska law prohibits operating a motorcycle between lanes of traffic or between adjacent rows of vehicles. You also may not overtake and pass another vehicle in the same lane it occupies.
Only as many as the motorcycle is designed to carry. A passenger may ride only on a permanent regular seat, sitting astride and facing forward, and the motorcycle must have footrests for the passenger (unless it has a sidecar or enclosed cab).
At least one and no more than two headlamps, and a rear lamp showing a red light visible from at least 500 feet. The manual recommends keeping the headlight on at all times when riding on public roads.
A brake on at least one wheel kept in good working order, and a horn audible from 200 feet. Handlebars may be no more than 15 inches above their mounting point.
A crash involving injury, death, or property damage over $1,500 must be reported to the State within 10 days, unless a law enforcement officer investigated and files the report.
No. A motorcycle, motorbike, or motor scooter with an engine horsepower rating of 10 or less may not be operated on the Interstate Highway System.
A moped (a bicycle-style vehicle with pedals, an automatic transmission, a motor of 50 cc or less, no more than two brake horsepower, and a top design speed of 30 mph) requires only a Class O (car) license.
A 'Z' restriction is placed on the license when a motor scooter or three-wheeled motorcycle is used during the drive test, limiting the rider to that type of vehicle.
It is multiple-choice and based entirely on the Nebraska Motorcycle Manual — protective gear, basic control and braking, turning and swerving, lane position, the SEE strategy, intersections, surfaces, emergencies, carrying passengers and cargo, group riding, and alcohol and drugs.
Source: Some test details are confirmed by the state agency; the rest reflect the consensus of major rider-education sources. The official DMV page confirms the 80% standard; the 25-question count comes from third-party sources. An approved Nebraska motorcycle safety course (MSF Basic RiderCourse) waives both the written and drive tests within 24 months.