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One of the many fantastic ways that Missouri residents enjoy the open roads is by riding a motorcycle. Not only that, but motorcycles also provide a convenient form of transportation, especially in busy cities that have very limited parking.
However, all the benefits of motorcycles aside, riding one around Missouri requires a Class M license, and if you’re under 18, additional certification and tests are a requisite for this type of license.
Those who are considering getting a motorcycle license should ensure that they meet all the eligibility requirements and have all the necessary documentation. To do this, they will need to know a thing or two about the motorcycle license requirements in Missouri. Here is everything they need to know!
Age Requirements
The first step toward obtaining a motorcycle license in Missouri is to get a permit. People can obtain a motorcycle license permit in Missouri from as young as 15 and a half years of age. However, those under the age of 16 are legally required to complete a course for motorcycle driving before they can be issued a permit.
Applicants under the age of 16 are also only allowed to ride during daylight hours and are not allowed to travel further than 50 miles from home. In the case of permit applicants over the age of 16, however, the motorcycle driving course is optional, but these motorcyclists are still subject to restrictions, such as no passengers while they are working towards their full license.
In order to obtain a full license, applicants need to be 18 years or older. Once they have successfully received their full license, only then will they not be subject to restrictions like not carrying passengers.
Documentation Requirements
The next step to successfully qualifying for a Missouri motorcycle license is proving that the applicant is a citizen of the United States or is, otherwise, legally authorized to be working in the United States. They must also be able to provide their age, social security number, and other documents that prove their residency in Missouri.
Motorcycle license applicants can prove both their eligibility and identity with various documents, such as:
Birth certificate
Social Security Card, and
Utility bills
Driving Test
The motorcycle driving test will consist of a knowledge test to test an applicant's general driving skills and an additional written knowledge test. This written knowledge test will have questions regarding motorcycle riding.
Those that have not completed a motorcycle riding course will also be required to take a motorcycle riding skills test. This test may be completed either on a private course or in general public traffic, but this will depend on the location of the testing.
If an applicant has had their permit for at least six months, they will not need to meet a minimum number of riding hours before they take their full driver’s license exam. However, poor motorcycle skills and lack of experience are common causes of many motorcycle accidents, and, thus, riders should be gaining as much experience as possible on safe roadways near their home before they venture out at night or in poor weather conditions.
Motorcycles, Motorized Bikes, and Mopeds
Mopeds, mini-motorcycles, and motorized bicycles are all very popular among the younger generation. Under Missouri law, these small vehicles are considered to be separate from motorcycles, and even though they are separate, the law still requires those driving them on public roadways to have a driver’s license. They must follow all the laws applicable to motor vehicles that a top motorcycle accident lawyer in St Louis would be familiar with, even if they do not require registration with state authorities or insurance.
Safe Travels
When riding a motorcycle, it is essential that drivers are staying safe. It is important to keep in mind that just because a driver is eligible for a motorcycle license does not mean that they should neglect their driving skills, especially when defensive driving can make a huge difference in the outcome of a motorcycle collision case. Even if a truck driver is liable for an accident, they can still cause a lot of damage. Also, be sure to wear a helmet when driving or riding on a motorcycle.
Who Can Help Motorcycle Accident Victims Recover Compensation?
Those who have been involved in a motorcycle accident will need the help of an experienced Missouri motorcycle accident lawyer from Powell Law Firm to defend their rights and get them the compensation they deserve. Clients can contact this law firm today for a free, no-obligation consultation.