Are There Different Types of Motorcycle Licenses in Georgia?

Few things are better than cruising through the beautiful Georgia countryside on a motorcycle. However, before you decide to purchase a motorcycle and feel the wind in your face, you need to make sure you understand the different types of motorcycle licenses available in the state. Georgia has two types of motorcycle licenses — the Class M license and the Class MP license. Dive into all the details below to learn more about each license type and how to get them.

What Is Georgia’s Class M License?

The Class M license in Georgia allows you to operate a motorcycle legally in the state. 

State law defines a motorcycle as a motor vehicle with:

  • A saddle for the rider
  • Handlebar controls
  • No more than three wheels in contact with the ground
  • 51cc or larger engine

It is worth noting that mopeds and scooters with an engine of 50cc or less are not classified as motorcycles. Typically, these vehicles with smaller engines do not require a motorcycle license for operation.

What Is the Class MP License in Georgia?

The Class MP license in Georgia is known as the motorcycle instructional permit. It is similar to a learner’s permit for individuals learning how to operate a motor vehicle. Although the Class MP license allows you to operate motorcycles, there are some restrictions. 

Those restrictions are:

  • No passengers allowed on the motorcycle
  • Daytime operation only
  • Must have all legally required safety equipment
  • A DOT-approved helmet required
  • Cannot drive on limited-access roadways

There are also a few differences between the Class M and Class MP licenses when it comes to who may obtain them.

How Do I Get a Motorcycle License in Georgia?

In an attempt to keep everyone on the roads safe and avoid motorcycle accidents, Georgia has some special requirements that must be met before obtaining a motorcycle license. First, you must provide several documents to prove your identity, address, and U.S. citizenship or lawful status. 

If you are under 18, you must also provide:

  • Proof of ADAP or eADAP completion
  • Proof of school enrollment
  • Proof of compliance with Joshua’s law

You must be at least 16 years old to obtain a Class MP license. You will need to pass both a vision exam and a knowledge exam. Upon passing the exam, you will need to pay the fee for your license to be issued.

If you are trying to get a Class M license, you must be at least 17 years old. You must also pass a vision and knowledge test, but there is an additional requirement of a motorcycle skills test. The driver skills test may be taken at a Georgia DDS customer service center. Instead of the skills and knowledge test, you may present completion of a Georgia Motorcycle Safety Program.

Georgia’s Motorcycle Insurance Requirements

After obtaining your license, you may be ready to hit the open road. However, you first need to ensure you meet the state’s insurance requirements. Motorcycle riders are required to carry minimum levels of liability insurance coverage to comply with state law. 

Motorcycle riders must have liability coverage of:

  • $25,000 for bodily injury per person
  • $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
  • $25,000 for property damage

This insurance coverage is essential for a few reasons. First, failure to have this insurance could get you a citation, fines, or other penalties. Next, you could be held personally responsible in a personal injury claim for any damages you cause in an accident. If the injured victim proves you have liability, you could be on the hook for a substantial amount of money.

Contact the Brunswick Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at Mayfield Law, LLC for Help Today

If you have been hurt in a motorcycle accident in Georgia, you may need an experienced lawyer to help you get the compensation you are owed. Call the team at Mayfield Law, LLC to schedule a free consultation with a Brunswick motorcycle accident lawyer.

For more information, contact Mayfield Law, LLC to schedule a free consultation with our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys. We proudly serve clients in Brunswick, GA, Nahunta, GA, as well as Glynn County and Brantley County. We’re here to offer trusted, compassionate legal guidance. Let us help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve.

Mayfield Law, LLC Brunswick
1611 Union St
Brunswick, GA 31520
(912) 457-8557

Mayfield Law, LLC Nahunta
13903 E Cleveland St
Nahunta, GA 31553
(912) 733-4651