Straight answers to the most common questions about passing the BMV motorcycle knowledge exam.
The Ohio motorcycle knowledge test has 40 multiple-choice questions. The questions are based on the Ohio Motorcycle Operator Manual.
You need 75% correct — 30 of the 40 questions. The Ohio BMV confirms the 40-question, 75% format on its motorcycle licensing page.
Either works. You can add a motorcycle endorsement to your Ohio driver license, or get a motorcycle-only license if you do not drive a car. Both require passing the knowledge test and an on-cycle skills test.
It is Ohio's Temporary Instruction Permit Identification Card — the motorcycle learner's permit. You get it after passing the knowledge test, and it is valid for one year from the issue date.
You may ride only during daylight hours, you may not carry passengers, and you may not ride on congested roads or interstate highways. You must wear an approved helmet and eye protection at all times.
Riders under 18 must complete the Motorcycle Ohio Basic Course and meet Graduated Driver Licensing requirements. Riders 18 and older are not required to take the course, though it is strongly recommended.
Passing an approved Motorcycle Ohio course waives the state on-cycle skills test. You present your course completion card to a Deputy Registrar within 60 days to receive your license or endorsement.
No. Ohio charges no fee for the on-cycle skills test. A license fee is charged by the Deputy Registrar when your license or endorsement is actually issued.
Bring your TIPIC and a street-legal motorcycle or scooter. You must wear a helmet and eye protection during the test. Schedule the test at ohiodrivingtest.com or by calling 877-439-8378.
Helmets are required for operators under 18, anyone riding on a temporary permit, any rider in their first year of licensure (a novice), and the passengers of those operators. Experienced adult riders licensed more than a year may ride without one.
Yes. Ohio law requires a motorcycle operator to wear safety glasses, goggles, or a face shield unless the motorcycle is equipped with a windshield. A windshield is not a substitute for a face shield while riding on a permit.
An adult is considered intoxicated (an OVI) at a BAC of 0.08% or higher. For riders under 21, a lower limit of 0.02% applies. Impairment of judgment and skill begins well below the legal limit.
The front brake supplies at least 70% of your total stopping power. Always use both brakes every time you slow or stop, squeezing the front lever firmly rather than grabbing it.
Keep a minimum two-second following distance behind the vehicle ahead. Open it to three seconds or more when the pavement is slippery, traffic is heavy, or you cannot see through the vehicle in front of you.
No. Cars and motorcycles each need a full lane to operate safely, and lane sharing is usually prohibited. Riding between rows of stopped or moving cars leaves you vulnerable to opening doors and turning vehicles.
Schedule the on-cycle skills test online at ohiodrivingtest.com or by calling 877-4DX-TEST (877-439-8378). There is no fee for the test itself.
For two-wheel motorcycles it is four exercises: a cone weave with a normal stop, turning from a stop with a U-turn, a quick stop, and an obstacle swerve. The course is altered for three-wheel motorcycles and sidecars.
The Ohio Motorcycle Operator Manual is published free by the Ohio Department of Public Safety / BMV. Course and licensing information is at motorcycle.ohio.gov, and the knowledge-test questions come from this manual.
Source: Test details are confirmed on the official agency page. Confirmed on the official page: 40 multiple-choice questions, 75 percent correct to pass.