Summer is around the corner, and Minnesotans love to spend time outside enjoying the warm weather while we can! For some, that means camping or fishing. Others enjoy nothing more than a leisurely drive through the country – especially on a motorcycle.
Motorcycles can be fun and exhilarating, but it’s important to follow the laws and adhere to safety guidelines to keep everyone on the road safe. If you’re interested in operating a motorcycle in Minnesota for the first time, you’ll need to obtain a Minnesota motorcycle license. Here are all the steps you need to take to become street legal on your motorcycle.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Minnesota Motorcycle License
Get Your Minnesota Motorcycle Permit: Before you can obtain your motorcycle license, you’ll need to get a motorcycle permit. You can get a permit by passing a written test and paying a fee. Once you have your permit, you can practice riding a motorcycle under certain restrictions. Keep in mind that a normal driver’s permit does not cover motorcycles.
Complete a Minnesota Motorcycle Training Course: While not required, taking a motorcycle training course can help you become a safer and more confident rider. Additionally, your insurance rates may drop after completing a course. These courses cover everything from basic motorcycle control to advanced riding techniques.
Schedule and Pass the Minnesota Motorcycle Skills Test: Once you feel confident in your riding skills, you’ll need to pass the Minnesota motorcycle skills test. This test evaluates your ability to maneuver a motorcycle in a controlled manner.
Upgrade Your Permit to a Minnesota Motorcycle License: After passing the skills test, you can upgrade your motorcycle permit to a Minnesota motorcycle license. You’ll need to pay a fee and provide proof of insurance to get your license.
Important Motorcycle Laws in Minnesota
It’s essential to understand the motorcycle laws in Minnesota to ensure you’re riding legally and safely. Some key laws include:
Helmets: All motorcycle riders under the age of 18 are required to wear helmets in Minnesota.
Licensing: As discussed, you need a motorcycle license or permit to ride a motorcycle legally in Minnesota.
Lane Splitting: Lane splitting, or riding between lanes of traffic, is illegal in Minnesota.
Insurance: All motorcycle riders in Minnesota are required to have liability insurance.
Why You Need Motorcycle Accident Lawyers and Personal Injury Attorneys in Minnesota
Even when riders follow the laws, motorcycle accidents do happen. Because passenger vehicles are so much larger and heavier than motorcycles, this type of accident can result in severe injuries or even fatalities to the motorcycle driver or passenger. These injuries can lead to medical expenses, lost wages, and other financial hardship.
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident in Minnesota, it’s crucial to seek the help of an experienced and compassionate motorcycle accident lawyer or personal injury attorney. Sieben Edmunds Miller can help you navigate the complex legal system and get the compensation you need to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Our attorneys have worked with many victims of auto accidents, including motorcycle accident victims, to protect the victim’s rights and seek fair and reasonable compensation. Get in touch to learn more.
