Robert Hammers | September 21, 2026 | Motorcycle Accidents
Georgia motorcyclists need the proper license or permit to ride legally on public roads. The state has a Class M license for motorcycle riders, a Class M designation that can be added to another driver’s license, and a Class MP permit for people learning to ride.
Each serves a different purpose. The requirements also vary based on a rider’s age, current license, and method of completing the licensing process.
Class M License
A Class M license gives a person motorcycle driving privileges in Georgia. According to the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS), applicants must be at least 17 years old.
A Class M license can cover motorcycles, scooters, motorbikes, motor tricycles, and other motor-driven cycles that meet Georgia’s definition. Applicants must satisfy the state’s testing and licensing requirements before receiving one.
Someone who does not already hold another class of Georgia driver’s license can receive a Class M license on its own.
Adding Class M Privileges to an Existing License
If you already have a Georgia driver’s license, you can add Class M motorcycle privileges to it after meeting the applicable requirements. Georgia DDS describes this as issuing a license that contains the Class M classification.
For example, someone with a Class C license can qualify for Class M privileges and receive a license containing both classes. This allows the person to drive passenger vehicles and motorcycles without carrying separate licenses.
Class MP Permit
The Class MP permit is Georgia’s motorcycle instruction permit. It gives new riders an opportunity to practice before receiving full Class M privileges.
Applicants must be at least 16 years old, and those under 18 must meet additional driver education requirements. They must also pass the required vision and motorcycle knowledge tests. A Class MP permit is valid for six months.
Permit holders face restrictions while riding. They:
- May ride only during daylight hours
- Cannot carry passengers
- Cannot ride on limited-access roads
- Must use the safety equipment required by Georgia law
A Class MP permit is not required before applying for a Class M license. However, a rider must hold a valid MP permit to schedule a motorcycle road test with DDS.
Do Different Types of Motorcycles Require Different Licenses?
Georgia does not issue separate motorcycle license classes for sport bikes, cruisers, touring motorcycles, or similar motorcycle styles. DDS groups several types of motor-driven vehicles under the Class M classification.
Motorcycles, scooters, motorbikes, motor tricycles, and mini-bikes with engines of 51cc or greater generally require Class M privileges.
Mopeds have different rules. A qualifying moped has an engine of 50cc or less, and a Class M license is not required to operate one. However, the rider must be at least 15 years old and have a valid driver’s license, instruction permit, or limited permit.
How Do You Get a Motorcycle License in Georgia?
Georgia riders have two main routes to a Class M license. One is completing an approved Georgia Motorcycle Safety Program course. Riders who successfully complete the course receive a 90-day license test waiver and do not have to take the motorcycle knowledge and on-cycle skills tests at DDS.
A rider can also complete the licensing process directly through DDS. Requirements may include:
- Being at least 17 years old
- Providing the required identification documents
- Passing a vision exam
- Passing the motorcycle knowledge test
- Passing the motorcycle skills test
- Paying the required fee
Applicants younger than 18 must meet additional state requirements, including applicable Joshua’s Law requirements.
Contact Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers to Schedule a Free Consultation With a Georgia Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Georgia has different licensing options for motorcycle riders. A Class M license provides full motorcycle privileges, while a Class M designation can be added to an existing Georgia driver’s license. New riders can also use a Class MP permit to practice under certain restrictions. The type of motorcycle or motor-driven cycle can also affect the licensing requirements.
Following Georgia’s motorcycle licensing rules is an important part of riding legally in the state. If you were injured in a motorcycle crash, contact Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation. Our Georgia motorcycle accident attorneys are here to help you.
Reach out to Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers for help today. We proudly serve clients throughout Fulton County and the greater Atlanta metro area in Georgia, with offices in Atlanta, Sandy Springs, Lawrenceville, Smyrna, Roswell, and Mableton.
Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Atlanta
201 Joseph E Lowery Blvd NW Suite 312, Atlanta, GA 30314
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Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Lawrenceville
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Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Mableton
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Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Smyrna
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Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Roswell
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