Should A Motorcycle Driver Need A Special License?

Motorcycle operator licensing is another major component to a comprehensive motorcycle safety program. By obtaining a specialized motorcycle license, a motorcyclist demonstrates the minimum ability to safely operate a motorcycle on the roadway. All 50 States require a motorcycle operator to obtain a license or endorsement to operate such a vehicle. Nearly one out of four motorcycle operators (27 percent) involved in fatal crashes in 2001 was not properly licensed (Improperly licensed defined as not licensed to operate a motorcycle, or a license suspended, revoked, expired, canceled or denied). Motorcycle operators involved in fatal traffic crashes were more than 1.4 times as likely as passenger vehicle drivers to have a previous license suspension or revocation (18 percent and 13 percent, respectively). NHTSA will continue to work with law enforcement agencies to enforce licensing laws, and with motorcycling organizations to increase the number of properly licensed motorcyclists.

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