Getting licensed in Texas

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black mariah
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Getting licensed in Texas

#1 Unread post by black mariah »

Alright, here's the deal. I hate driving cars. I feel incredibly uncomfortable behind the wheel, and as a result I've never got a driver's license. I'm trying to figure out if I need a driver's license before I can get a motorcycle license in the state of Texas. The linked page doesn't indicate that I do, but I was hoping someone from Texas that has gone through the process could enlighten me so I don't have to spend a few hours on hold calling the DPS. :laughing:
http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/administra ... id.htm#q29

Am I the only one that despises cars but feels right at home on a bike?
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kellanv
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#2 Unread post by kellanv »

yes you will need a C class license first I believe. Reason being, it covers a lot of traffic sign/signal rule stuff that the motorcycle part doesnt.
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Shorts
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Re: Getting licensed in Texas

#3 Unread post by Shorts »

black mariah wrote:
Am I the only one that despises cars....

I despise cars, but I prefer trucks.

As for TX rules about your question there, I have no idea. Go through the DPS site and Google to check, since that's what I'd have do if I were to give you an answer.
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Sabredude
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#4 Unread post by Sabredude »

My son got his motorcycle license at age 15. He had to complete the Motorcycle safety course, and take a written test, and could only ride a bike restricted to 250 cc or less. The 250 cc was an age restriction. He did not have to take a road test. His cycle license had numerous restrictions, most for experience. He had of course never had a driver's license. So the answer to you question would have to be no. You have to pass a written exam on the traffic laws, vision exam, and if you haven't taken the safety course, a road exam. In case of the latter, you must provide the bike and a licensed driver with a vehicle and proof of valid insurance to drive the trooper around for the road exam.
Mike

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[b]2004 Yamaha Vstar 650[/b]
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Sabredude
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#5 Unread post by Sabredude »

This what the traffic code says. TC 521.242

DPS may issue a special restricted class M license that authorizes the holder to operate only a motorcycle that has not more that 250 cc piston displacement.

Heres the catch.
A person is eligible for a restricted license if the person:
1. is 15 years of age or older but under 18 years of age
2. has completed the motorcycle safety course
it goes on to say that on the applicants 16th birthday, the 250 cc restriction is removed.

So, the way I read this is if you are more that 18, you are not eligible for just the class M license. You have to have a class CM which means you have to have a normal driver's license.

This is a very interesting question, now I'm committed to finding the answer for older applicants. I'll post my findings.
Mike

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[b]2004 Yamaha Vstar 650[/b]
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Sabredude
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#6 Unread post by Sabredude »

O.K. Here is the answer:
If you have a driver's license and have taken the safety course, the road test can be waived.

If you have nothing, it is as stated in my first reply. The following is from the Texas DPS website.

Adult Motorcycle Operator Licensing

The operator of a motorcycle on a public roadway must hold a valid motorcycle license (Class M Driver License). This requirement also applies to operators of scooters.

To receive a license to operate a motorcycle, applicants must pass a written test covering traffic laws pertaining to motorcycles, and a road test. The road test may be waived.

Road Test and Waiver Information

In order to take a road test, applicants must have their own motorcycle and provide a passenger vehicle and a licensed driver to drive the examiner during the road test. The vehicle owners must show proof of liability insurance for both vehicles and must pass an on-site safety inspection.

An applicant who has passed a Department of Public Safety approved basic motorcycle operator training course, and has an unrestricted (not an instructional permit) class A, B, or C license, can present a an MSB-8 completion certificate and receive a waiver of the road test.
Mike

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[b]2004 Yamaha Vstar 650[/b]
black mariah
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#7 Unread post by black mariah »

Got an email from the TXDPS today. You can get a license for motorcycle only, but you have to pass the written test for both a Class C and Class M license, and must pass the driving test as well. So no skipping the driving portion if you pass the MSF course.
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Sabredude
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#8 Unread post by Sabredude »

Get r done and join us on the Texas roads. Good luck and keep us updated on your progress.
Mike

[b]2003 Honda Sabre[/b]
[b]2004 Yamaha Vstar 650[/b]
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