Wisconsin Motorcycle Knowledge Test — FAQ

The Wisconsin motorcycle knowledge test is widely reported to have 25 multiple-choice questions. WisDOT does not publish an official count, but 25 questions with an 80% pass mark is the strong consensus across practice sources, so study the whole Motorcyclists' Handbook rather than counting on a narrow margin.

You need 80% correct — about 20 of the 25 questions. The test covers traffic laws and safe-riding knowledge as they relate to operating a motorcycle, all drawn from the Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook.

Yes. Every Wisconsin resident who operates a motorcycle on public roads must hold a Class M (motorcycle) license or a valid motorcycle instruction permit. Most Class M holders also hold a Class D car license, but a motorcycle-only license is available.

It is Wisconsin's motorcycle learner permit. After you pass the knowledge test and pay the fee, you receive a Cycle Instruction Permit (CYCI) that is valid for six months and lets you practice riding while you prepare for the skills test or a rider course.

You must be at least 16. If you are under 18 you also need a parent or guardian's sponsorship, proof that you have completed driver education, and proof of enrollment in a basic rider course.

Yes. Completing an approved WisDOT Basic RiderCourse waives the on-cycle skills test — you bring your waiver form or course-completion card to the DMV. You must still pass the knowledge test and be at least 16. An approved Basic RiderCourse taken out of state may also be sufficient for the waiver.

Wisconsin has a partial helmet law. Operators and passengers under 18, and any rider 18 or older who is riding on a motorcycle instruction permit, must wear an approved helmet (U.S. DOT standard at minimum) with the chin strap fastened. Adults 18 or older who hold a Class M license are not required to wear one, but it is strongly encouraged.

Yes. All operators of any age must wear eye protection — a face shield, goggles, or glasses — unless the motorcycle is equipped with a windshield that rises at least 15 inches above the handlebars. Eye protection worn during hours of darkness must be clear, not tinted or darkened.

Yes. When riding on a highway your headlight and taillight must be on at all times. Using your high beam during the day also makes oncoming drivers more likely to see you.

Yes, but only if both riders agree. Motorcyclists are entitled to a full traffic lane, and you may not ride in part of a lane occupied by another vehicle except when two cyclists agree to ride side by side. Lane sharing with a car is usually prohibited.

You may proceed cautiously through a red light only if it is vehicle-activated, no other vehicle is present to trip the sensor, you have stopped at the signal for at least 45 seconds, and you yield to cross traffic and pedestrians. You may not do this at a timed signal, no matter how long it takes.

A minimum of four seconds is recommended under ideal conditions — longer than the two-second rule many manuals use. Increase your following time and space in less-than-perfect conditions such as rain, slippery pavement, heavy traffic, or when you cannot see past the vehicle ahead.

The front brake is the more powerful brake and can provide at least three-quarters of your total stopping power. Always use both brakes together every time you slow or stop, squeezing the front lever rather than grabbing it.

Slow, Look, Lean, Roll. Slow before the turn, look through it to where you want to go, lean by pressing the handgrip in the direction of the turn, and roll on the throttle through the turn to keep the motorcycle stable.

Yes. The owner or operator must have liability insurance in effect for the motorcycle and carry proof of insurance while riding. Failing to have insurance could result in a fine of up to $500.

If you have held three CYCIs, you must successfully complete — or be enrolled in — a basic rider course before applying for a fourth. The only exception is if you live more than 50 road miles, by the most direct route, from a basic rider course site.

If you fail two motorcycle-in-traffic skills tests and still want a Class M license, you must successfully complete a basic rider course. After that, on application, your skills test is waived.

Possibly. A new Wisconsin resident who holds a driver license from another jurisdiction that authorizes motorcycle operation may be able to get a Wisconsin Class M license without taking the knowledge or skills tests.

Yes. Successfully completing the Basic RiderCourse or Advanced RiderCourse may be used to reduce up to three demerit points for motorcycle violations you were convicted of in the previous 12 months.

The Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook (form BDS110, June 2023) is free to read or download from the Wisconsin DMV website at wisconsindmv.gov. The knowledge-test questions are based on it.