Most states do not offer online motorcycle permit tests, but a small number do allow you to take the written knowledge test remotely through a proctored system
As of now, only a handful of states have launched online motorcycle permit testing: Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, and West Virginia offer some form of remote testing for motorcycle permits. However, the specifics vary significantly — some states allow the full written test online, while others require you to test in person at a DMV office or approved testing center.
Even in states that offer online testing, you typically cannot take the riding skills test (the practical exam on an actual motorcycle) remotely. The written knowledge test and the riding test are separate events, and the riding portion almost always happens at a DMV facility or third-party testing location where an examiner can observe your actual riding ability. Your state's DMV website is the only reliable source for whether online testing is currently available in your state, because testing options change and some states have paused or ended online programs.
Key Takeaways
- Fewer than 20 states currently offer online motorcycle permit written tests, and availability changes without notice.
- Online testing, when available, covers only the written knowledge test — the riding skills test must happen in person at a DMV or testing center.
- You must verify with your state's DMV website whether online testing is open right now, because programs are frequently paused or discontinued.
- Most states still require you to take both the written and riding tests at a physical DMV office or approved testing location.
- Even if your state offers online testing, you may need to pass a background check or provide proof of identity before you can test remotely.
How Online Motorcycle Permit Testing Works in States That Offer It
When a state does offer online motorcycle permit testing, the process typically uses a proctored testing platform. This means you take the test on your own computer at home, but a proctor (an examiner) watches you through your webcam to prevent cheating. You must have a quiet space, a working camera and microphone, and a stable internet connection. Most platforms require you to show your ID to the camera before the test begins.
The written test itself covers the same material as the in-person version: motorcycle safety, road signs, traffic laws, and riding techniques specific to motorcycles. The number of questions and passing score are identical whether you test online or at the DMV. You typically have a set time limit — often 30 to 45 minutes — to complete the test.
After you pass the written test online, you still must schedule and pass the riding skills test in person. This is the hands-on portion where you demonstrate that you can actually operate a motorcycle safely. You bring your own motorcycle or use one provided by the testing center, and an examiner watches you perform specific maneuvers and ride on public roads or a closed course.
States That Currently Offer Online Motorcycle Permit Tests
The states listed below have offered online motorcycle permit written tests at some point, but you must confirm current availability on each state's DMV website because programs change frequently. A state may pause its online program temporarily, move to a new testing vendor, or discontinue remote testing altogether. Do not assume a state still offers online testing just because it appears on this list.
Before you schedule, visit your state's official DMV or motor vehicle agency website and search for "online motorcycle permit test" or "remote testing." The DMV site will tell you whether the program is currently active, what technical requirements you need, and how to schedule.
| State | What You Need to Know |
|---|---|
| Florida | Online testing available through the Florida DMV website; riding test still in person. |
| Georgia | Proctored online testing offered; confirm current status on Georgia DMV site. |
| Illinois | Online written test available; riding test at a DMV facility or approved location. |
| Indiana | Remote testing option available; check Indiana BMV for current program details. |
| Kentucky | Online testing offered; riding skills test must be completed in person. |
| Louisiana | Proctored online option available; verify on Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles site. |
| Michigan | Online written test available through Michigan Secretary of State. |
| Mississippi | Remote testing available; confirm current availability before scheduling. |
| Missouri | Online testing offered; riding test in person at a Missouri DMV location. |
| Nevada | Proctored online testing available; check Nevada DMV for scheduling. |
| New Mexico | Online written test option; riding skills test in person. |
| North Carolina | Remote testing available; verify on North Carolina DMV website. |
| Ohio | Online testing offered; riding test at a BMV location or third-party center. |
| Oklahoma | Proctored online option available; confirm current status. |
| Pennsylvania | Online written test available; riding test in person at a PennDOT location. |
| Tennessee | Remote testing offered; check Tennessee DMV for availability. |
| Texas | Online written test available through Texas DPS; riding test in person. |
| Utah | Proctored online testing available; verify on Utah DMV site. |
| Virginia | Online written test option; riding skills test in person at a DMV location. |
| West Virginia | Remote testing available; confirm current program details on West Virginia DMV site. |
What You Need to Take an Online Motorcycle Permit Test
If your state offers online testing, you will need to meet specific technical and documentation requirements before you can schedule. Have a government-issued photo ID ready — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The proctoring system will ask you to hold it up to your webcam to verify your identity before the test starts.
Your computer must have a working webcam, microphone, and a stable internet connection. Most proctoring platforms require a minimum upload and read speed — typically 2.5 Mbps or higher. Test your connection before your scheduled test time. You also need a quiet, private space where you will not be interrupted for the duration of the test, usually 30 to 45 minutes. Some states require you to show your desk and surroundings to the camera before the test begins, so clear your testing area of notes, books, phones, and other people.
Some states require you to pass a background check or provide proof of residency before you can test remotely. Check your state's specific requirements on the DMV website when you schedule your test. A few states also charge a fee for online testing — this varies by state and may be the same as or slightly higher than the in-person test fee.
How to Schedule an Online Motorcycle Permit Test
Go to your state's official DMV or motor vehicle agency website and look for the section on motorcycle permits or online testing. Most states have a dedicated portal where you can create an account, enter your personal information, and select a test date and time. You will typically need to provide your name, date of birth, address, and sometimes your Social Security number.
After you schedule, you will receive a confirmation email with your test date, time, and a link to the proctoring platform. Log in to that platform a few minutes early to test your camera and microphone. The proctor will verify your identity, review the test rules, and then start the exam. If your state does not offer online testing, you must schedule your written test at a local DMV office or approved testing center — some states allow online scheduling, while others require you to call or visit in person.
What Happens After You Pass the Online Written Test
Once you pass the written test — whether online or in person — you receive a motorcycle permit (also called a motorcycle learner's permit or endorsement). This permit allows you to ride a motorcycle on public roads, but usually with restrictions: you may be required to wear a helmet, ride only during daylight hours, or ride only when supervised by a licensed motorcycle rider.
The permit is valid for a set period, typically 6 to 12 months depending on your state. During this time, you must schedule and pass the riding skills test in person. This test happens at a DMV facility, a third-party testing center, or sometimes through a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course. You bring a motorcycle (yours or a borrowed one), and an examiner watches you perform specific maneuvers and ride on a course or public roads.
After you pass the riding test, your permit is converted to a full motorcycle license or endorsement on your driver's license. If you do not pass the riding test before your permit expires, you must retake the written test to renew your permit.
Common Mistakes When Taking an Online Motorcycle Permit Test
The most common error is assuming your state offers online testing without checking first. Many riders schedule time off work or clear their calendar only to discover that online testing is not available in their state or that the program has been paused. Always verify on your state's official DMV website before you make plans.
A second mistake is failing the technical requirements. Your internet connection drops, your camera does not work, or the proctoring software is incompatible with your device. Test everything 15 to 20 minutes before your scheduled test time. If you have technical problems, contact the proctoring platform's support line when ready — most will reschedule you at no extra charge if the failure was on their end.
A third mistake is not reading the test rules carefully. Many proctored tests prohibit you from having notes, phones, or other people in the room. Some require you to show your desk and surroundings to the camera before you start. Violating these rules can result in an automatic failure and a ban from retesting for a set period. Read the rules email that comes with your confirmation, and follow them exactly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the riding skills test online too?
No. The riding skills test must always happen in person because an examiner needs to watch you actually operate a motorcycle. There is no way to assess your riding ability remotely. You will need to schedule this test at a DMV facility or approved testing center after you pass the written test.
What if my state does not offer online testing?
You must take the written test in person at a local DMV office or approved testing center. Call your state's DMV or visit their website to find a testing location near you and schedule an appointment. Some states allow online scheduling; others require you to call or visit in person.
Can I use my phone to take the online test?
Most proctoring platforms require a computer with a webcam and microphone. A phone may not work because the platform needs to see your full desk and surroundings, and the screen may be too small. Check your state's technical requirements before your test date. If you only have a phone, contact the proctoring platform to ask whether it is compatible.
What if I fail the online written test?
You can retake the test after a waiting period, which varies by state — typically 1 to 7 days. You will need to pay the test fee again and schedule another appointment. There is usually no limit on how many times you can retake the test, but check your state's specific rules.
Do I need to bring anything to the online test besides my ID?
No. You only need your government-issued photo ID and a computer with a working camera and microphone. Do not have notes, books, phones, or other people in the room. Some states require you to show your desk and surroundings to the proctor before the test starts, so make sure your testing space is clear.