What to do, what to bring, and what to expect at the DMV office — start to finish.
A Virginia motorcycle learner's permit lets you practice riding under supervision while you prepare for a Class M, M2, or M3 designation on your driver's license — or a motorcycle-only driver's license. The motorcycle knowledge exam is based on the Virginia Motorcycle Operator Manual; you also pass a vision test and a driver's knowledge exam.
The steps below follow the official Virginia DMV motorcycle licensing process. Always confirm current fees and accepted documents on dmv.virginia.gov before you go.
Decide whether you want a two-wheeled (M2) or three-wheeled (M3) motorcycle classification. If you already hold a valid Virginia driver's license, you can add a Class M, M2, or M3 designation; if you do not, you can apply for a motorcycle-only driver's license.
Study the Virginia Motorcycle Operator Manual and the Virginia Driver's Manual. Pass the vision test, the driver's knowledge exam, and the 25-question motorcycle knowledge exam — you need 20 correct (80%). You must pass the motorcycle knowledge exam before the skills test.
Once you pass, DMV issues a motorcycle learner's permit valid for one year. You may ride only after 4 a.m. and before midnight, must wear an approved helmet, and may not carry any passenger.
You may ride only when supervised by a person licensed to operate a motorcycle who is at least 21, alert, and providing immediate supervision. A parent, legal guardian, or sibling may supervise if they are motorcycle-licensed and at least 18. Riders under 18 must hold the permit for at least nine months.
Completing an approved Virginia Rider Training Program course (offered statewide for new and experienced riders) on or after July 1, 2007 exempts you from the 30-day permit hold and from the motorcycle knowledge exam and road skills test for one year from completion.
Take the off-street skills test on your own motorcycle, which must have a valid license plate and current inspection sticker; bring an approved helmet with a face shield and safety glasses or goggles. The test covers starting, accelerating, shifting, turning, braking and swerving. Fail it twice and you must complete a Virginia Rider Training Program before the designation can be added.
Check the official DMV page for current fees and accepted forms of payment.
Source: Test details are confirmed on the official agency page. 25 questions / 80% confirmed on the official Virginia DMV page.