To operate a motorcycle in Maine, you must have a motorcycle license. Licenses are issued by the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). At age 16, you can apply for a license, permit, or endorsement on your current license. However, all applicants under the age of 18 must complete a basic driver's education course before completing the requirements for a motorcycle license. A motorcycle license allows you to operate a motorcycle, motorbike, scooter, or moped on public roads.
To receive a motorcycle permit, you must apply, submit your required documentation, successfully complete a hands-on rider education program, pass the vision screening and the motorcycle knowledge exam, and pay the fees. To receive a motorcycle license or endorsement on your driver's license, you must complete the permit process, submit your application and documentation, pass the motorcycle road skills test, and pay the fees. If you successfully passed a road skills test as part of your basic rider course, the motorcycle road test may be waived.
The motorcycle exams are taken through your local BMV. The knowledge exam contains 25 questions about motorcycle safety, operation, and road signs. You must answer 20 of the questions correctly to pass. The motorcycle road skills test assesses your ability to operate your motorcycle safely. If you fail a test, you must check with the BMV to reschedule your next test.