How to Get Your Motorcycle License in Nevada

Hey, Nevada driver! You’ve picked a beautiful state for cruising; nothing could be more fulfilling than Mad Max-ing through the desert on your bike. But before you get too carried away with dreams of just you, your bike and nothing but sky, make sure you know exactly what you need to get a motorcycle license in Nevada.

Nevada is one of the easiest places to obtain a motorcycle driver’s license, as the state offers multiple ways to do so. Below, we’ve outlined them all -- pick whichever one is easiest for you!

How do you get a motorcycle license in Nevada? In order to be eligible to apply for a motorcycle license, you must already have a valid Nevada driver’s license. If you don’t, you’ll need to pass both a vision and general driver’s license knowledge test before proceeding to the next steps.

Current Nevada Residents:

Option 1

Get a motorcycle instruction permit
Schedule and pass a motorcycle driving test at your local Nevada DMV
Get your license

Step 1 - Get a motorcycle instruction permit

In order to get your instructional permit, you must pass a written motorcycle knowledge test at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Test material comes from the Nevada’s Motorcycle Operator Manual, so make sure you familiarize yourself with it beforehand!

Step 2 - Pass a motorcycle driving test

Once you’ve obtained your instructional permit, it’s time to head to the DMV to take the skills test. Schedule an appointment by calling your nearest CDL office.

The skills test comprises of various checks to make sure you know how to operate and drive your motorcycle. You do not have to use your own motorcycle. Here is a list of the specific maneuvers you’ll be expected to perform.

Step 3 - Get your license

You’re almost there! Head to the DMV for these final steps:

Submit proof of your name, age and SSN (here’s a list of acceptable documents)
Submit a completed (Form DMV 002). If you’re under 18 years old, make sure you have a parent or guardian present. You’ll also be required to sign a financial responsibility statement at the office.
Turn in your instructional permit
Take a vision test. Be sure to bring any corrective lenses if applicable.
Pay $26 for the motorcycle knowledge and skills test

Option 2

Take a motorcycle course approved by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation
Take your completion certificate to the DMV
Get your license

Step 1 - Take an approved motorcycle course

If you don’t want to take the DMV motorcycle written and skills test, you can opt for a course certified by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF). Taking this course means you won’t have to get an instructional permit. It’ll cover the basics of operating a motor vehicle as well as motorcycle safety.

Check for MSF-approved courses here.

Step 2- Take your completion certificate to the DMV

Once you finish and pass your course, you’ll get your certificate of completion. Be sure to bring this to the DMV when getting your motorcycle license.

Step 3 - Get your license

You’re almost there! Head to the DMV for these final steps:

Submit proof of your name, age and SSN
Submit a completed Application for Driving Privileges or ID Card (Form DMV 002). If you’re under 18 years old, make sure you have a parent or guardian present. You’ll also be required to sign a financial responsibility statement at the office.
Turn in your MSF course completion card
Take a vision test. Be sure to bring any corrective lenses if applicable
Pay the $42.25 fee for your license

If you’re a new Nevada resident With An Existing Motorcycle License

Congrats on your move to the Silver State! As a new resident of Nevada, you have 30 days to transfer your license. To do so:

Visit the DMV with proof of your identity, SSN, and Nevada residency
Complete an Application for Driving Privileges or ID Card (Form DMV 002)
Turn in your out-of-state license
Pay the transfer fee ($47.25)

You should receive your new license within 10 days after you apply for a transfer. Now get cruising, rough rider!