Are There Different Types of Motorcycle Licenses in Florida?
May 3, 2024 | Sagi Shaked | Motorcycle Accidents
In Florida, if you wish to operate a motorcycle, you must obtain a special type of license. The kind of license you need depends on the circumstances and your intended purpose.
Going through proper training and obtaining a valid Florida motorcycle license is critical to help ensure riders have the skills they need to ride safely.
Types of Florida Motorcycle Licenses
Like other states, Florida offers more than one choice for motorcycle licensing. To legally ride a two- or three-wheeled motor vehicle with engines over 50cc, you must obtain either a motorcycle-only license or a motorcycle endorsement.
Motorcycle License
A motorcycle license only allows you to ride motorbikes. It is a good option for individuals who only want to ride motorcycles and don’t have a regular Florida Class E driver’s license.
To get a motorcycle-only license in Florida, you must:
- Be at Least 16 Years Old: Riders under 18 must hold a Florida learner’s permit for at least one year without any traffic violations before applying for a motorcycle license
- Pass an Exam: Riders must take and pass the same knowledge test regular Class E drivers must also pass
- Complete a Training Course: Riders must successfully complete either the Basic Rider Course (BRC) or Basic Rider Course updated (BRCu)
Once you’ve met all requirements, you can visit a Florida Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) location and provide the required documentation and fees to obtain your motorcycle-only license.
Motorcycle Endorsement
If you already possess a Class E driver’s license and simply wish to acquire additional licensing to ride motorcycles, you don’t have to get an entirely different license. Instead, you can obtain a motorcycle endorsement on your existing driver’s license.
To get a motorcycle endorsement, you must:
- Have a valid Class E driver’s license
- Successfully complete either the Basic Rider Course (BRC) or Basic Rider Course updated (BRCu)
After completing the requirements, you can visit a Florida DMV location, provide the necessary documentation, and pay the appropriate fees. You’ll receive a new Class E license with your new motorcycle endorsement.
Other Motorcycle Requirements in Florida
Along with obtaining a valid motorcycle license or endorsement in Florida, there are other requirements to fulfill before riding.
First and foremost, to legally ride a motorcycle in Florida, you must register your motorcycle at the local DMV. Once your motorcycle is registered, you’ll receive your license plate, which must be renewed yearly.
All riders under 21 must wear a helmet at all times, and all riders must wear eye protection. Even if you’re over 21, wearing a helmet can substantially help prevent injury in the event of a collision.
Florida does not require motorcycle insurance as it does with cars. However, there is a legal requirement to show proof of financial responsibility in case of a motorcycle accident. One of the easiest ways to do so is by purchasing minimum liability insurance.
The Importance of Getting a Florida Motorcycle License
Taking the steps to obtain a valid motorcycle license or endorsement may seem inconvenient, but Florida law requires licenses for a reason. Getting a license means you’ve received adequate training and have the tools and education you need to ride safely on Florida roads.
Even after you go through the proper channels to get a motorcycle license or endorsement, accidents are sometimes inevitable due to third-party negligence. In this case, getting legal guidance and representation from an experienced lawyer is key. Following a motorcycle collision, do not wait to consult an attorney. A skilled Florida motorcycle accident lawyer can protect your rights, represent your best interests, and fight for fair compensation for your injuries and economic or non-economic losses.
Contact Our Motorcycle Accident Law Firm in Miami, FL
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Miami, FL and need legal help, contact our Miami motorcycle accident lawyers at Shaked Law Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation.
Shaked Law Personal Injury Lawyers
20900 NE 30th Ave Suite 715
Aventura, FL 33180
(305) 937-0191