Pennsylvania Motorcycle Knowledge Test — FAQ

The Pennsylvania motorcycle (Class M) knowledge test has 20 multiple-choice questions, all based on the Motorcycle Operator Manual (PUB 147).

You must answer at least 16 of the 20 questions correctly - 80%. The questions cover safe riding practices and the rules of the road from PUB 147.

No. It is a separate test for a Class M license. You must pass the motorcycle knowledge test to get a Class M learner's permit before you can practice riding.

You must first get a Class M learner's permit by passing the motorcycle knowledge test and a vision screening. The permit lets you practice while you prepare for the on-cycle skill test.

The Class M learner's permit fee is $12, and the permit is valid for one year.

On a Class M permit you may ride only between sunrise and sunset, you must always wear a helmet and eye protection, and you may not carry any passenger other than a properly licensed instructor.

After holding the permit, you must pass an on-cycle skill test, given either in actual traffic or in a controlled off-street area. Passing it (or an approved rider course) earns your Class M license.

Yes. Pennsylvania's free Motorcycle Safety Program Basic Rider Course is a 15-hour course that supplies a motorcycle and helmet; learner's-permit holders who complete it are issued a motorcycle license, which waives the PennDOT skill test.

An applicant under 18 must hold the permit for a mandatory 6 months, complete 65 hours of skill-building, and complete the Basic Rider Course before receiving a Class M license. The course's 15 hours count toward the 65-hour requirement.

You may reapply for a motorcycle learner's permit no more than three times in a five-year period - four permits total within five years - and you must pass the knowledge test again with each reapplication.

If you take the skill test on a motorcycle of 5 brake horsepower or less, an '8' restriction limits you to that size. If you test on a motorcycle with more than two wheels, a '9' restriction bars you from two-wheeled motorcycles. Call PennDOT at 717-412-5300 to have one removed.

Pennsylvania has a partial helmet law (75 Pa.C.S. 3525). A DOT-approved helmet is required for every rider under 21, and for riders 21 and older who do not have at least two years of motorcycle experience or have not completed an approved safety course. Learner's-permit holders must wear one at any age.

Yes. Pennsylvania law requires the operator to wear an approved eye-protective device, and all permit holders must wear eye protection. The manual notes a windshield is not a substitute for a faceshield or goggles.

In Pennsylvania you are driving under the influence at a blood alcohol level of 0.08% or higher. Under the Implied Consent Law, refusing a chemical test automatically suspends your driving privilege for one year, even if you are not convicted of DUI.

Keep a minimum of four seconds behind the vehicle ahead. Open it to five seconds or more when the pavement is slippery, you cannot see past the vehicle ahead, or traffic is heavy, and to three seconds or more at night.

The front brake is the more powerful brake and can provide at least three-quarters (70% or more) of your total stopping power. Always use both brakes together every time you slow or stop, squeezing - never grabbing - the front lever.

Yes. Motorcycles manufactured during or after 1973 are required by law to use their headlights at all times. A motorcycle with its light on is about twice as likely to be noticed during the day.

The Pennsylvania Motorcycle Operator Manual (PUB 147) is free to read or download from the PennDOT website at dmv.pa.gov. The knowledge-test questions come directly from it.