Motorcycle License Application Process in Illinois

1. What are the minimum age requirements to apply for a Motorcycle License in Illinois?


In Illinois, the minimum age requirement to apply for a Motorcycle License is 16 years old. Drivers under the age of 18 must also have held a valid Illinois instruction permit for at least nine months before applying for a license.

2. What documents must be submitted to apply for a Motorcycle License in Illinois?


In order to apply for a Motorcycle License in Illinois, applicants must submit proof of identity, such as a valid Illinois driver’s license or state-issued identification card, proof of residency, proof of legal presence, a Social Security number, and a $20 fee. Applicants must also pass a written motorcycle knowledge test and a vision test. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate their motorcycle riding skills by passing an on-cycle skills test.

3. Are there any special restrictions/exceptions for obtaining a Motorcycle License in Illinois?


In Illinois, you must be at least 16 years old to obtain a motorcycle license. You must complete a motorcycle rider safety course and have proof of successful completion of the course in order to obtain your license. You must also provide proof of identification, residency, and have a valid Illinois driver’s license. Additionally, there are restrictions on the type of motorcycle you can operate based on your age and experience level.

4. What is the cost of the Motorcycle License application fee in Illinois?


The cost of the Motorcycle License application fee in Illinois is $20.

5. What is the process for obtaining a Motorcycle Learner’s Permit in Illinois?


In Illinois, applicants must be at least 16 years old to obtain a Motorcycle Learner’s Permit. To apply, you must visit a Driver Services facility and provide the following:

1. Proof of identity, such as an Illinois driver’s license or ID card.

2. Proof of residency.

3. Two documents showing your Social Security number.

4. Completed application for a Motorcycle Learner’s Permit (Form DSD DC-162).

5. A $20 fee.

6. A vision test.

Once you have submitted the necessary paperwork and completed the vision test, you will need to pass a written knowledge test on operating a motorcycle safely and legally. Once you pass the test, you will be issued a Motorcycle Learner’s Permit.

6. Is there an additional test required to obtain a Motorcycle License in Illinois?


Yes, in addition to taking the standard knowledge and on-cycle skills tests, applicants for an Illinois motorcycle license must also pass an additional written exam focusing on motorcycle safety and riding techniques.

7. Are there any other forms that must be completed when applying for a Motorcycle License in Illinois?


Yes, in addition to the Driver’s License Application (Form DL) required for all driver’s licenses, the Motorcycle License Application (Form DSD X-299) must also be completed when applying for a Motorcycle License in Illinois. The form is available online at the Illinois Secretary of State website.

8. How long is the Motorcycle License good for in Illinois?


In Illinois, a motorcycle license is good for four years.

9. How often does the Motorcycle License need to be renewed in Illinois?


In Illinois, motorcycle licenses need to be renewed every four years.

10. Is there a motorcycle safety course that needs to be completed to get a Motorcycle License in Illinois?


Yes, in Illinois, all applicants for a Motorcycle License must complete a basic rider motorcycle safety course approved by the Illinois Department of Transportation.

11. Is there an age restriction on passengers when riding with a Motorcycle License in Illinois?


Yes, there is an age restriction on passengers when riding with a Motorcycle License in Illinois. All riders must be at least 16 years of age or older to ride with a motorcycle license.

12. Is there a motorcycle helmet law in Illinois?


Yes, in Illinois, all motorcycle riders must wear a helmet approved by the Department of Transportation while riding.

13. Is there an endorsement required to operate certain types of motorcycles in Illinois?


Yes, certain types of motorcycles require an endorsement to operate in Illinois. An “M” endorsement is required to operate a three-wheeled motorcycle and a “3” endorsement is required to operate a three-wheeled autocycle. You can obtain these endorsements by completing a written exam and a riding skills test.

14. What are the minimum insurance requirements to operate a motorcycle in Illinois?


In Illinois, all motorcycles must be insured with at least the following minimum insurance coverage:

• Liability insurance – Bodily injury and Property Damage coverage of at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per occurrence and $20,000 for property damage

• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage – At least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per occurrence

• Comprehensive Coverage – To cover damage to the motorcycle and its accessories due to theft, vandalism, fire, hail or other perils.

• Collision Coverage – To cover damage to the motorcycle caused by an accident.

15. What are the restrictions for operating a motorcycle without a license in Illinois?


In Illinois, a person must be 16 years old or older and have a valid driver’s license to legally operate a motorcycle. If a person does not have a license, they must have successfully completed an approved motorcycle training course and have a valid Motorcycle Instruction Permit. The Motorcycle Instruction Permit is valid for 12 months and allows the person to operate a motorcycle with certain restrictions such as not being able to ride between 11pm and 6am, must always wear protective gear, etc.

16. Are temporary motorcycle license plates available in Illinois?


Yes, temporary motorcycle license plates are available in Illinois. These plates are valid for 30 days and may be used to register a vehicle while the regular plates are being made.

17. How does one go about replacing a lost or stolen motorcycle license in Illinois?


To replace a lost or stolen motorcycle license in Illinois, you must visit a Secretary of State facility in person and bring proof of your identity, such as a valid driver’s license or state ID. You will also need to pay the required fee. You can find the nearest facility by using the online facility locator or by calling the toll-free number (800) 252-8980.

18. Does Illinois offer any special discounts on motorcycle license fees for veterans or seniors?


Yes, Illinois offers special discounts on motorcycle license fees for veterans and seniors. Veterans are eligible for a reduced fee of $3.50 and seniors (aged 65 and over) are eligible for a reduced fee of $1.50.

19. What is the speed limit for motorcycles on highways and freeways in Illinois?


In Illinois, the speed limit for motorcycles on highways and freeways is 65 miles per hour (mph).

20. How far in advance must one apply for renewal of their Motorcycle License in Illinois?


In Illinois, you must renew your Motorcycle License every four years. You can apply for renewal up to one year before the expiration date of your license.