Information on Different Kinds of Ohio Motorcycle Licenses
For getting motorcycle license in Ohio, you will need to visit the local BMV [Bureau of Motor Vehicle] office. Motorcycle license requirements will depend on the age and kind of license you want to obtain.
Kinds of Ohio motorcycle licenses available
Ohio BMV offers three kinds of motorcycle licenses.
- Temporary Instruction Permit Identification Card [TIPIC]
- Motorcycle-only
- Motorcycle Endorsement

Butler County Ohio
Image/David Benbennick
For Ohio temporary permit
The age eligibility for Ohio motorcycle permit test is minimum 15 ½ years. The eligible applicant has to study the Motor Vehicle Laws and Motorcycle operation manual. Prepare and take online practice test before going to the local exam station for the written and vision test. There is no need for an appointment for both these tests but make sure to book an appointment, so as to reduce waiting time. Both tests are for free.
After you successfully conclude the written and vision tests, give your test completion receipt to the deputy registrar after 2 months from test competition schedule. You will need to give two acceptable kind of ID that shows the proof of name, birthdate, and SSN. Pay necessary fees and get your temporary instruction permit for motorcycle driving.
Temporary permit restrictions to follow
- Wear helmet and eye protection
- Never carry passenger
- Ride only in day light hours
- Not valid on jammed interstate highways or roadways
For Ohio motorcycle-only license
The eligibility for motorcycle-only license is minimum 15 ½ years to maximum 16 years. You need to hold TIPIC for minimum 6 months from issuance date. You will need to complete –
- Approved driving education course
- Basic rider’s course
- Fifty-hour affidavit
- Pass skills test prior TIPIC expires
After you pass the skill test give the document that verifies your SSN and surrender TIPIC to the deputy registrar. Pay the required fees and get your motorcycle-only license. If the applicant is younger than 18 years, there will be a need for co-signer [guardian or parent].
For motorcycle endorsement
After you get a genuine Ohio motorcycle-only license, you will need to pass motorcycle endorsement skill test. The following things will be needed at the endorsement skill test.
- Valid driver’s license
- Validated TIPIC
- Approved helmet & eye protection
- Legal motorcycle with firmly attached seat and handlebars not higher than driver’s shoulder. The motorcycle must have all necessary safety equipment.
After you pass the skill test, go to the deputy registrar agency to surrender your driver’s license and pay the fees. Your license will be re-issues and motorcycle endorsement will be included in it. Make sure that your TIPIC does not expire.
Tips on how tests get evaluated
The Ohio BMV organizes both motorcycle road skills and knowledge test. The test evaluates your –
- Basic motorcycle control & crash avoidance know-how.
- Aptitude in dealing with normal and risky traffic circumstances.
- Abilities to perceive, be perceived and interact with others.
- Skills in turning, swerving, and stopping quickly.
- Capabilities in adjusting position and speed according to traffic scenario.
- Talent in making crucial decisions and implementing them.
Examiners even consider safety factors like –
- How you choose safe speeds to maneuver?
- How you correct path and stay within boundaries?
- How you complete normal and rapid swerves or turns?
- How you conclude the regular and instant stops?
Prepare thoroughly for Ohio written and road skill tests to pass it confidently!
Author: Mariia Lvovych