Everything M1

What you need to know

In California there are two things you need to do to earn your motorcycle endorsement (M1).
  1. Get your permit (written test).
  2. Get your license (riding test).
Private rider training is a great alternative to standardized group courses. It can also be used as continuing education after you take a Basic Rider Course or to get a leg-up prior to enrollment. The money you invest in rider development will ultimately be saved ten-fold as improved skills reduce risk, plain and simple.

Permit Info

Valid 12 for months. Restrictions: No highway, no passengers, no nighttime riding. Learners under 21 y.o. must have permit for six months before applying for full license.

Everyone seeking a motorcycle endorsement (M1) in California regardless of age, previous experience or motorcycle license in another state must first take a 25-question multiple choice knowledge test. You now have the option to take your permit test online if you qualify. Or do it the traditional way by testing at a DMV field office.

Step 1: download the Motorcycle Handbook.

Step 2: Take the practice tests.

Step 3: Test online or you can make an appointment or do a walk-in at most DMV offices. 

Upon successful completion of the knowledge test make an appointment for the skills test asap using the DMV scheduling page. Depending on your location there may be several weeks wait for an appointment so get on it!  

NOTE: Permit is not required for classes with Monkey Moto School.

Getting an M1

You have choices!

If you are at least 21 years old you can learn to ride independently with a training organization like MMS (or with a friend who rides – less advisable) and then take the riding test directly at a DMV field office. Or you can attend a standardized state Basic Rider Course (BRC) where testing is part of the program.

The administrative fee for the riding test at the DMV is only $37 if you decide to go that route. Make your appointment as soon as you have your permit and you feel adequately prepared to pass the skills test -which you should be following successful completion of MMS level 1 skills modules. 

IMPORTANT: If you are under 21 years old you are required to attend a California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP) Basic Rider Course (BRC). Upon completion of the riding test in the BRC you will be issued a form (DL-389) to turn in at the DMV for your full M1 license provided you have passed your written exam previously. 

An M1 is required for scooters over 49cc. Rent our scooter for the DMV test.

Riding test

Here are the test course dimensions.

Requirements:

  1. Snake through five cones 12’ apart.
  2. Perform two 20’ clockwise circles in between 2’3” borders.
  3. Snake back through cones.
  4. Ride within a 2’3” lane to the circle.
  5. Perform two counterclockwise circles.
  6. Return down opposite side lane. 

If you cannot successfully complete the test course you probably shouldn’t be riding a motorcycle in public.

Fortunately, we can teach you the skills, tips and tricks for you to pass easily!

Don't worry about the test

Two things we hear most about the DMV test are:

“Everyone says the DMV motorcycle test is really hard.” and “I’ll do whatever it takes to avoid going to the DMV!”

First, the skills test at the DMV is literally a gauge of essential riding abilities that do not take long to learn but do require some repetition. These are things that you absolutely should know (such as slow speed control and forward vision) if you expect to be safe in traffic. Substituting proficiency for the easy route is short-sighted. If you are anxious about taking this test then you just need a bit more practice and/or lesson time as you will remain at higher risk while riding the streets until you develop these skills,

Second, people tend to feel that the DMV is about the worst place on earth. At some point that might’ve been the case but currently with their active appointment system doing business at the DMV is generally easy and not terribly time consuming.

Wherever possible make an appointment and you will have a much happier experience at the DMV.

Book your appointment for testing as soon as you can because there may be some wait time and plan to be trained and ready by that date. The administration and test-taking time should take around an hour, more or less.

RENT OUR SCOOTER

You can take the M1 riding skills test on an automatic scooter!

Our 150cc step-through scooter is available for rental to our students for $140 and non-students for $180 which includes short pre-test meetup with assessment and test guidance.

This is available for the San Francisco DMV only. We are located just a few blocks from the San Francisco DMV office. Use our contact form and select “Scooter Rental” or ask your coach during your lesson.

Please also read our Scooter Rental requirements on the FAQ page!

Start riding