In Nevada, it is against the law to operate a motorcycle unless you have the required license. Anyone who wishes to drive a motorcycle in the state must go through the proper steps to obtain a Class M motorcycle license. Operating a motorcycle without the proper licensing can have various administrative and civil penalties, and if you are involved in a crash while unlicensed, a Las Vegas motorcycle accident attorney can explain how that affects your claim.
How to Get a Motorcycle License in Nevada
Before an individual can legally operate a motorcycle in the State of Nevada, he or she must obtain the proper license. In Nevada, it is called a Class M license. A motorcycle license is technically not an endorsement under state law; instead, Nevada lists all of an individual’s earned driving privileges (Class A, B, C and/or M) on a single license card.
Option One: Motorcycle Safety Foundation Course
The simplest way to obtain a motorcycle license for those 18 and older in Nevada is by taking a certified course. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation offers a Basic RiderCourse that the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has approved as a way for adults to get a Class M license.
With this route, it is not necessary to pass any written or skills tests at the DMV. Upon completion of this course, the person can bring in a Certificate of Completion to a DMV office along with an existing (valid) Nevada driver’s license to get a Class M license.
Option Two: DMV Tests
If an individual does not want to take the Motorcycle Safety Foundation course, he or she can take the traditional tests at the DMV to obtain a Class M motorcycle license in Nevada instead. The required tests include:
- Vision test
- Written motorcycle knowledge test (based on the Nevada Motorcycle Operator Manual)
- Class C written test, if the applicant does not already have a Class C license
- Motorcycle skills (physical riding) test
There is a $25 testing fee on top of the regular licensing fees. When visiting the DMV for these tests, the applicant also needs to bring an existing Nevada driver’s license or ID card (or identification documents if there is no ID), and the required application.
Age-Based Requirements for Motorcycle Endorsement in Nevada
An applicant must be at least 16 years old to apply for a motorcycle endorsement in Nevada. If the person applying is under the age of 18, they must have a motorcycle instruction permit for at least six months, complete 50 hours of supervised riding and take an approved motorcycle safety course to qualify for a Class M license. A motorcycle instruction permit is only valid for one year and expires when the rider turns 18. It may be renewed multiple times.
What Are the Consequences of Driving a Motorcycle Without the Proper License?
If a person operates a motorcycle in Nevada without a valid Class M license or instruction permit, he or she could face multiple consequences. Unlicensed riders may have to pay a fine of up to $1,000.
Criminal charges could be filed, as this is classified as a misdemeanor in Nevada. There is possible jail time for a conviction of up to six months. Finally, administrative penalties may suspend the individual’s driving privileges or delay the ability to get a motorcycle license.
Requiring a Class M license is Nevada’s way of ensuring that a person is qualified and capable of safely and properly operating a motorcycle. If an unlicensed operator causes a motorcycle accident in Nevada, he or she can be held liable for driving without a license.