100+ Free CA Motorcycle Permit Test Practice Questions
Pass your California DMV Motorcycle Permit Knowledge Test (M1/M2) exam on the first try — instant access, no signup required.
Lane splitting — riding a motorcycle between rows of stopped or slow-moving vehicles in the same direction — is:
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Key Facts: CA Motorcycle Permit Test Exam
30
Multiple-Choice Questions
California DMV
80% (24/30)
Passing Score
California DMV
$45
Application Fee (up to 3 attempts)
California DMV 2026
Under 21
CMSP Basic Rider Course Required
California Motorcyclist Safety Program
VC 21658.1
Lane Splitting Legal When Safe & Prudent
California Vehicle Code
VC 27803
DOT Helmet Required for All Riders
California Vehicle Code
The California DMV motorcycle permit knowledge test has 30 multiple-choice questions, and applicants must answer at least 24 correctly (80%) to pass. The $45 application fee covers up to three attempts. The test is required for both an M1 license (any motorcycle) and an M2 license (mopeds and motorized scooters). Applicants under 21 must also complete a CMSP basic rider course. California-specific rules tested include lane splitting being legal when safe and prudent (VC 21658.1), the universal DOT helmet requirement (VC 27803), and the 0.01% BAC zero-tolerance limit for riders under 21.
Sample CA Motorcycle Permit Test Practice Questions
Try these sample questions to test your CA Motorcycle Permit Test exam readiness. Each question includes a detailed explanation. Start the interactive quiz above for the full 100+ question experience with AI tutoring.
1Which California license class allows you to ride any two-wheeled motorcycle, including those with engines larger than 150cc?
2Which California license class is limited to motorized bicycles, mopeds, and motorized scooters?
3How many questions are on the California DMV motorcycle knowledge test?
4What is the passing score on the California DMV motorcycle knowledge test for adult applicants?
5How much is the California DMV application fee for a motorcycle license, and how many test attempts does it cover?
6In California, who is required to complete a California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP) basic rider course before getting an M1 license?
7Completing a California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP) course gives a rider what benefit at the DMV?
8Lane splitting — riding a motorcycle between rows of stopped or slow-moving vehicles in the same direction — is:
9According to California Highway Patrol lane-splitting guidance, the safest practice is to:
10California helmet law (Vehicle Code 27803) requires:
About the CA Motorcycle Permit Test Exam
The California DMV motorcycle permit knowledge test is the written exam required to earn a Class M1 or M2 license in California. It contains 30 multiple-choice questions drawn from the California Motorcyclist's Handbook, covering motorcycle controls, T-CLOCS pre-ride inspection, body position, braking with both wheels, swerving, the slow-look-press-roll cornering technique, countersteering, the three lane positions, the SEE and SIPDE mental strategies, hand signals, sharing the road, hazards such as fog and gravel, and night riding. The test also covers California-specific laws including lane splitting under Vehicle Code 21658.1, the universal helmet requirement under Vehicle Code 27803, the basic speed law, BAC limits (0.08% adult, 0.04% commercial, 0.01% under 21), and hands-free phone use. Applicants must answer at least 24 of 30 questions correctly to pass (80%). The $45 application fee covers up to three attempts. Applicants under 21 must also complete a California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP) basic rider course, which also waives the DMV skills test.
Questions
30 scored questions
Time Limit
No strict time limit at most California field offices
Passing Score
80% (24 of 30 questions correct)
Exam Fee
$45 (application fee covers up to 3 attempts) (California Department of Motor Vehicles)
CA Motorcycle Permit Test Exam Content Outline
Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings
California sign shapes and colors, traffic signals, lane markings, and curb color rules used on California roads
Lane Positions and Sharing the Road
The three lane positions, blind spots, group staggered formation, and sharing the road with cars, trucks, and bicyclists
Braking, Swerving and Cornering
Using both brakes (about 70% front), the 4-second following distance, swerving, countersteering, and the slow-look-press-roll turning technique
California-Specific Laws
Lane splitting under Vehicle Code 21658.1, helmet law under Vehicle Code 27803, the basic speed law, BAC limits, hands-free law, and HOV lane access
Hazards, Night Riding and Emergencies
Wet roads, Bay Area fog, gravel, mountain twisties, night conspicuity, throttle stuck, wobble recovery, flat tires, and crash reporting
How to Pass the CA Motorcycle Permit Test Exam
What You Need to Know
- Passing score: 80% (24 of 30 questions correct)
- Exam length: 30 questions
- Time limit: No strict time limit at most California field offices
- Exam fee: $45 (application fee covers up to 3 attempts)
Keys to Passing
- Complete 500+ practice questions
- Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
- Focus on highest-weighted sections
- Use our AI tutor for tough concepts
CA Motorcycle Permit Test Study Tips from Top Performers
Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions are on the California motorcycle permit test?
The California DMV motorcycle permit knowledge test has 30 multiple-choice questions drawn from the official California Motorcyclist's Handbook. The same test is used for both Class M1 (motorcycles) and Class M2 (mopeds and motorized scooters) licenses.
What score do I need to pass the California motorcycle permit test?
Applicants must answer at least 24 of 30 questions correctly, an 80% passing score. The $45 application fee covers up to three attempts during your application period. If you fail three times, you must reapply and pay the fee again.
Is lane splitting legal in California?
Yes — California is the only U.S. state where lane splitting is explicitly legal. Vehicle Code 21658.1 allows a motorcyclist to ride between rows of stopped or slow-moving vehicles in the same direction when done in a safe and prudent manner. CHP guidance recommends keeping the speed differential to only a few mph above surrounding traffic.
What is the difference between a California M1 and M2 license?
A Class M1 license authorizes operation of any two-wheel motorcycle, plus mopeds and motorized scooters. A Class M2 license is limited to motorized bicycles, mopeds, and motorized scooters. M1 is the broader endorsement and is required for full-sized street motorcycles.
Is the California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP) required?
CMSP completion is required for applicants under 21 before they can be issued an M1 license. For riders of any age, completing a CMSP basic rider course waives the DMV motorcycle skills test. Adults 21 and older are not required to take CMSP, but it is strongly recommended.
What does California's helmet law require?
California Vehicle Code 27803 requires every motorcycle operator and passenger of any age to wear a U.S. DOT-compliant safety helmet, properly fastened with the chin strap. California is a universal helmet state — the law applies on all roads to all riders, not just minors.
How much does the California motorcycle permit cost?
The California DMV application fee for a motorcycle license or instruction permit is $45. That fee covers up to three attempts at the knowledge test. Applicants under 21 must also complete the CMSP basic rider course, which is paid separately to the CMSP provider.
What is the minimum age for a California motorcycle permit?
Applicants must be at least 15 and a half years old to apply for a California motorcycle instruction permit. Under-21 applicants must complete a CMSP basic rider course, hold the M1 permit for at least six months, and pass the DMV skills test (or have CMSP waive it) before being issued the full license.