01Know when Oregon requires a motorcycle privilege
Oregon DMV says you need a motorcycle permit or endorsement when the motorcycle goes over 30 mph on level ground or is over 50 cc. A moped that stays within the state definition can be operated with any class of driver license without a motorcycle endorsement. For a standard two-wheel motorcycle endorsement, the rider must be at least 16 and hold a valid driver license. Riders under 18 also need parental or guardian consent. Before applying, identify whether your vehicle is a motorcycle, moped, or three-wheel motorcycle because Oregon issues different privileges and applies different steps.
02Understand the permit route and its restrictions
A motorcycle instruction permit is available to riders age 16 or older who already have a valid Oregon driver license. Oregon DMV lists the motorcycle knowledge test, a vision test, proof of physical address and identity, Social Security Number information or certification that you do not have an SSN, a photograph, and the permit fee among the application steps. The permit is valid for one year. While riding on the permit, you must be supervised and visually observed by an endorsed rider age 21 or older on a separate motorcycle, ride only during daylight hours, carry no passengers, and wear a DOT-compliant helmet.
03Complete rider education for a two-wheel endorsement
For a standard Oregon two-wheel motorcycle endorsement, DMV requires completion of approved rider education. Team Oregon is the state-approved motorcycle rider education provider. The Basic Course with in-person classroom instruction satisfies both the DMV motorcycle knowledge and skills test requirements. The Basic Course with online classroom and the Intermediate Course satisfy the skills requirement, so the DMV motorcycle knowledge test is still required. Oregon also recognizes certain listed out-of-state rider-training programs. DMV does not administer a motorcycle skills test; successful completion of an approved course is the route used to satisfy the skills requirement.
04Prepare for the Oregon motorcycle knowledge test
Oregon DMV bases the motorcycle endorsement knowledge test on the Motorcycle & Moped Manual. The current test has 25 multiple-choice questions, and the manual states that 20 correct answers are required to pass. The test can be taken online or at a DMV office, and it is offered in English and Spanish. The manual covers Oregon motorcycle and moped road rules along with safe-riding practices, including protective equipment, rider performance, vehicle control, visibility, hazardous conditions, passengers and cargo, and group riding. Review the official manual after practice so current DMV instructions control if requirements change.
