Can You Get a Motorcycle License with a DUI?

If you’ve been convicted of a DUI, DWI, OWI, or a similar driving offense, you were found to be operating a vehicle while intoxicated. You don’t have to agree with the conviction, but it will be on your driving record.

It is common for a person to have their driver’s license suspended after such a conviction.

When you have a motorcycle at home to ride, you might wonder if it is possible to obtain a license or endorsement to ride it.

It is possible, but you must restore your driving privileges before obtaining a motorcycle endorsement or license.

Steps to Follow to Get Your Driver’s License Back

Each state has a different approach to reinstating a driver’s license after a DUI or multiple charges. These generalized steps describe the process to expect, but there could be variables to manage based on where you live.

1. Start by attending the DUI hearing. It allows you to present your case and have the right to have an attorney present.
2. Pay any required fees associated with a DUI conviction, including reinstatement, bail, and court fees.
3. If you’re given a suspension time, it must be completed before you can ask for your license to be reinstated. Since a motorcycle endorsement is typically required to operate a bike, you must go through the waiting period.
4. You might be asked to take a driving course, safety education classes, or attend therapy sessions as part of your court orders. These steps must be completed before you can apply for reinstatement.
5. Once your license qualifies for reinstatement, you’ll need insurance from a provider offering SR-22 certification.
6. After completing these steps, you can visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles to apply for your reinstatement.

Most arresting officers will confiscate a driver’s license, especially for a first DUI. It’s replaced with a temporary one. An automatic suspension could occur if you refuse to give samples or take a breathalyzer test.

Refusing to take a test creates consequences that are typically worse than a DUI conviction.

What If My State Allows for a Separate Motorcycle Driver’s License?

States like New Jersey allow bikers to obtain a motorcycle driver’s license. This option lets you operate a bike, but not a car, truck, or similar vehicle.

A small-displacement license is sometimes available for mopeds and scooters. It may be possible to obtain permission to drive a moped in Mississippi, Montana, North Carolina, South Carolina, Rhode Island, West Virginia, and Wyoming.

Motorcycle licensing follows the same rules as a driver’s license. Since the DUI conviction is part of the public record, an application to drive a bike is typically refused.

Even if it were granted, driving with one when it is against the law could result in severe fines and penalties.

The best option is to serve the suspension and pay whatever fees are ordered to restore your license after a DUI. Since a second or subsequent offense typically has even more consequences, it is wise to avoid putting yourself into a situation where a suspended license could occur. With enough convictions, you could lose the right to drive altogether.