Whether you’re getting on a bike for the first time or you’re new to Alabama, it’s important to understand Alabama’s motorcycling licensing laws. Your license proves that you’ve met the minimum qualifications to ride your bike through the Yellowhammer State. Riding without a license can lead to fines and legal trouble. It can even affect your chances of winning a personal injury claim after your motorcycle accident.
In this article, our Alabama motorcycle accident lawyer, explains the process of getting a motorcycle license in Alabama. It also explains the legal complications that can arise for those who ride without a license.
Types of Motorcycle Licenses in Alabama
Alabama issues two types of licenses for motorcycle riders. The type of license you’ll get depends on your age and the type of vehicle you plan to operate:
- Class M Endorsement: This license is available to riders aged 16 and older. The “M” endorsement allows the holder to operate a standard motorcycle on any public road.
- Class M License with Restriction “B”: This license is available to riders aged 14 to 15. The “B” restriction limits holders to motor-driven cycles (e.g., scooters and mopeds) with engines capable of 5 horsepower or less. It does not allow the holder to ride a standard motorcycle.
How to Get an Alabama Motorcycle License
Both types of motorcycle licenses are issued through the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA).
To get a Class M with Restriction “B” license
To get this license, you’ll have to:
- Apply for a Class M with Restriction “B” license
- Pass a written knowledge test covering rules of the road and motorcycle safety
- Pass a road skills test using a motor-driven cycle
- Obtain parental consent
- Bring documents verifying your identity and legal presence in the U.S. to the ALEA office.
To get a Class M endorsement
Here are the steps to get this license if you are over 18:
- Pass the written knowledge test about motorcycle safety
- Pass the motorcycle road skills test, unless you qualify for a waiver (more on that below)
- Provide proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number
- Pay any applicable fees.
If you’re under 18, you’ll also need consent from your parent or guardian. Additionally, you’ll have to hold a learner’s permit for at least six months before applying for a full Class M license.
Does Alabama Require Motorcycle Safety Applicants to Take a Motorcycle Safety Course?
No. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s (MSF) Basic RiderCourse covers a few simple topics. It offers instruction on motorcycle operation and laws as well as on-bike training on turning, braking, swerving, and emergency maneuvers. The course ends with a written and riding test. The course is strongly recommended, especially for new riders.
Alabama doesn’t require this test. However, those who complete it are exempted from the state’s road skills test.
How to Transfer Your Motorcycle License to Alabama from Another State
If you’re moving to Alabama with a motorcycle endorsement from another state, you’re in luck! Alabama makes it easy for people with unexpired motorcycle endorsements to transfer them. Even better, you likely won’t have to take a written or practical test. You’ll simply go to the DMV with your valid out-of-state license (with motorcycle endorsement) as well as any other required documents, such as proof of Alabama residency. Take a vision screening, pay the fee, and you’ll be set.
If either your out-of-state license or motorcycle endorsement is expired, you may have to take the written knowledge test, the motorcycle skills test, or both. However, if you have a certificate from a recent MSF course, officials may waive the skills test.
Consequences of Riding a Motorcycle Without a License
In Alabama, operating a motorcycle in Alabama without a license is a misdemeanor. In addition to criminal consequences, riding without a license can affect your personal injury claim in the event of an accident.
To win your motorcycle accident case, you and your Birmingham accident attorney will need to prove that the other driver was negligent. To do this, you’ll need to show that:
- The person who hit you had a duty to follow traffic laws and the rules of the road,
- The person who hit you failed to follow traffic laws,
- You were injured, and
- Your injuries were caused by the other driver’s failure to follow traffic laws.
If you can prove these things, you’ll be able to collect damages. Damages can compensate you for the financial and emotional harm caused by the accident.
However, Alabama law adds a wrinkle. Alabama follows a strict rule called contributory negligence. Under this rule, a person who is even one percent responsible for causing their own injuries cannot recover damages. This matters because if your lack of a license contributed to your accident, you may not be able to collect damages. For example, if you made an unsafe turn or lost control, the other driver will argue that a properly licensed motorcycle rider would have been able to safely respond to the situation. As such, they’ll argue that contributory negligence applies and you should get nothing.
Get Help With Alabama Motorcycle Licenses, Laws, and Accidents
Getting properly licensed is a crucial step toward becoming a safer, more responsible rider. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Alabama — especially if licensing played a role – contact Collins Law, LLC. Attorney April H. Collins and the rest of the team will work hard to make sure that you get the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 205-588-1411 or use our website’s online scheduling tool to schedule a free consultation with a motorcycle accident lawyer who understands Alabama law.
