What You Need to Know About Washington's Motorcycle Learner's Permit

Washington's motorcycle learner's permit — officially called an Instruction Permit — lets you ride a motorcycle on public roads while supervised by a licensed motorcycle rider. You cannot ride alone, and you must follow specific restrictions on when and where you can ride. The permit is a separate document from your car driver's license; you get it through the Department of Licensing (DOL), and it costs $20.

The permit is your first step toward a full motorcycle endorsement. You'll hold it for at least 6 months before you can test for the endorsement itself. During that time, you practice under supervision, which is how most riders build the skills they need to pass the riding test.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 16 years old and have a valid Washington driver's license or instruction permit to get a motorcycle instruction permit.
  • The permit costs $20 and requires passing a written motorcycle knowledge test at a DOL office.
  • You must ride with a licensed motorcycle rider age 21 or older who sits beside you on the motorcycle.
  • You cannot ride between sunset and sunrise, on freeways, or in heavy traffic while on an instruction permit.
  • You must hold the permit for at least 6 months before you can take the riding test for a full motorcycle endorsement.

Age and License Requirements

You must be at least 16 years old to get a Washington motorcycle instruction permit. You also need a valid Washington driver's license or a valid instruction permit for a car — you cannot get a motorcycle permit on its own if you have no driver's license at all.

If you are 16 or 17, your car driver's license or instruction permit must have been issued at least 6 months before you explore for the motorcycle permit. This waiting period does not explore if you are 18 or older.

What Documents to Bring to the DOL

Bring your current Washington driver's license or instruction permit, proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). You will also need to bring payment for the $20 permit fee — cash, check, or card are accepted at most DOL offices.

If you are under 18, you do not need a parent or guardian to sign anything for the instruction permit itself. However, some DOL offices may ask for a parent's contact information. Call your local DOL office ahead of time if you want to confirm what they require.

The Written Motorcycle Knowledge Test

At the DOL office, you will take a written test on motorcycle knowledge and safety. The test covers topics like how to control a motorcycle, how to brake and turn, what to do in bad weather, and Washington's motorcycle laws. You need to answer at least 80 percent of the questions correctly to pass.

The test is given on a computer at the DOL office. You can study using the Washington Motorcycle Operator Manual, which is free and available on the DOL website. Many riders also use the manual's practice test questions to prepare. You get one attempt per visit; if you do not pass, you can return and try again, but you will pay the $20 fee each time.

Restrictions While You Hold the Instruction Permit

Your instruction permit comes with clear riding limits. You cannot ride between sunset and sunrise — this means no night riding at all. You cannot ride on any freeway or interstate highway. You also cannot ride in heavy traffic or in areas where the speed limit is higher than 35 miles per hour, unless your supervising rider is a certified motorcycle instructor.

You must always wear a helmet, eye protection, and protective clothing. Your supervising rider — the person riding with you — must be at least 21 years old and hold a valid motorcycle endorsement on their own license. They must sit beside you on the motorcycle at all times while you are riding.

How Long You Hold the Permit and What Comes Next

You must hold your instruction permit for at least 6 months before you can take the riding test for a full motorcycle endorsement. The 6-month clock starts the day the DOL issues your permit. During this time, you practice under supervision and build your riding skills.

After 6 months, you can schedule a riding test at a DOL office or through an approved motorcycle training school. If you complete a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course or an equivalent training program, you may be able to waive the riding test and go straight to your endorsement — check with your local DOL office about which courses may have access to. If you take the riding test instead, you will demonstrate your ability to control the motorcycle, brake, turn, and handle emergency situations.

Renewing or Replacing Your Instruction Permit

Your instruction permit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. If you have not yet taken your riding test and your permit expires, you can renew it at a DOL office for $20. You do not have to retake the written test — just pay the fee and your permit is extended for another year.

If you lose your permit, you can get a replacement at any DOL office for $20. Bring your driver's license and proof of address, just as you did when you first applied.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ride alone on my instruction permit?

No. You must have a licensed motorcycle rider age 21 or older sitting beside you on the motorcycle at all times. Riding alone on an instruction permit is illegal and can result in a traffic violation.

What if I fail the written test?

You can take the test again at any time. You will need to pay the $20 fee each time you test. Most people pass on their second or third attempt after studying the Washington Motorcycle Operator Manual more thoroughly.

Do I need to take a motorcycle safety course to get the permit?

No. The instruction permit requires only the written test. However, taking an MSF course or equivalent training can help you pass the riding test later, and some courses let you skip the riding test entirely.

Can I ride on the freeway if my supervising rider is a motorcycle instructor?

No. The freeway restriction applies to all instruction permit holders, even with a certified instructor. You can only ride on roads with speed limits of 35 miles per hour or lower, except during a formal training course.

What happens if my instruction permit expires before I take the riding test?

You can renew it for $20 at any DOL office without retaking the written test. Your permit is then valid for another year. You can renew as many times as you need until you are ready to take the riding test.