Most banks will not give a loan to any DoD personnel for a motorcycle without a license. They will reference DoDI 6055.4 if you ask, which went into effect July 20, 1999.
This regulation states "Before operation of any motorcycle, personnel shall successfully complete an approved rider or operator safety course. Excluding motorcycle with attached sidecars and three-wheel motorcycles." this means DoD personnel cannot ride without completing the safety course. A learner's permit is not a substitute.
It goes on to state "Operators of Government and privately owned motorcycles (both street and off-road versions) on DoD installations must be appropriately licensed to operate on public highways." Since you are overseas you are considered always on a DoD installation even if you live off-base somewhere.
Each branch of the military has additional regulations that apply. You can ask your safety section for more information.
In the states you can get away with a lot more - and I know many people that just avoid the regulations by staying off DoD installations. But in the event of an accident on or off-base you may be found not in compliance with these regulations and that could mean a "line-of-duty" determination and refusal to pay your medical bills.
The good news is this regulation also protects your right to get the proper training. If the course offered near you does not have bikes to train you on - find another base that does. This training must be provided at no cost to you and you cannot be charged leave to take the course. So call around and find a base that offers the training and has the bikes and off you go.
Motorcycle Loan Question
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mic_merritt
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dr_bar
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Re: Motorcycle Loan Question
Belac wrote:I'm not sure if this is common back in the US, but I am overseas with the military and both of the banks on my base said I need my motorcycle license to get a loan for one. But the catch is, to get a motorcycle license I need a motorcycle to take the safety class on!
Airforce??? They're the ones that are infamous for "Catch-22's"
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"Four wheels move the body.
Two wheels move the soul!"
"Four wheels move the body.
Two wheels move the soul!"