Hopeful riders in Washington can apply for a 2-wheel instruction permit once they turn 16. They’ll need to take a knowledge and riding test to receive a temporary permit. They’ll take two more advanced tests to secure a motorcycle endorsement on their licenses. Knowledge of the laws on these tests will help young motorcyclists travel legally and safely.
Getting a Motorcycle License When You’re Under 18 in Washington
The Washington State Department of Licensing explains the process for minors to get a motorcycle endorsement on their license.
First, they’ll need to get an instruction permit. They may apply when they are 16 years old and have a valid Washington State driver’s license.
Here are a few more steps to complete and rules to know when minors are applying for a Washington motorcycle instruction permit:
- Pass a motorcycle knowledge test and a riding skills test. (These tests are administered by training facilities approved by the state.)
- Young riders will also need the signature of a parent or guardian on a consent form.
- The permit lasts for 180 days. In that time, riders are expected to obtain their motorcycle endorsement. Riders can secure two 2-wheel permits within a 5-year period.
- When riding with a permit, motorcyclists cannot carry passengers or ride at night.
Here are a few more steps to complete and rules to know when minors are applying for a Washington 2-Wheel endorsement:
- Riders must have a driver’s license.
- Riders must have obtained an instruction permit.
- Applicants must pass two more knowledge and skill tests (more advanced).
- Applicants must have the written consent of a parent or guardian.
- Three business days after completing the exams, applicants may visit a licensing office and have the motorcycle endorsement added to their driver’s license.
Other Washington State Safety Laws Young Motorcyclists Must Know
All motorcyclists in Washington must wear an approved helmet. They must wear eye protection if they don’t have a windshield.
The requirements and duties are recorded in the Revised Code of Washington:
RCW 46.37.530
(b) For any person to operate a motorcycle, moped, or motor-driven cycle which does not have a windshield unless wearing glasses, goggles, or a face shield of a type conforming to rules adopted by the state patrol;
(c) For any person to operate or ride upon a motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or moped on a state highway, county road, or city street unless wearing upon his or her head a motorcycle helmet…
(iii) …The motorcycle helmet neck or chin strap must be fastened securely while the motorcycle, moped, or motor-driven cycle is in motion…
(3) For purposes of this section, “motorcycle helmet” means a protective covering for the head consisting of a hard outer shell, padding adjacent to and inside the outer shell, and a neck or chin strap type retention system…the motorcycle helmet meets standards established by the United States department of transportation.
A few other important laws young motorcyclists should abide by.
- Motorcyclists may not transport passengers under the age of 5.
- Motorcyclists must travel with their headlight and taillight lighted at all times. RCW 37.522
- Lane splitting is not allowed in Washington. Lane splitting is when motorcycles travel between cars and lanes. It’s often done at red lights, when riders move to the front of the line of vehicles so they can get a quicker start when the light turns green. It’s legal in a few other states, but it’s illegal in Washington.
You can study other laws and recommendations in the Washington State Department of Licensing Motorcycle Operator Manual
Drinking and Driving Laws for Washington Motorcyclists Under the Age of 21
Motorcyclists must never ride while they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
In Washington State, an adult with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or above is considered intoxicated.
However, the standards for minors on motorcycles are stricter. For riders under the age of 21, lower BAC limits of 0.02% apply.
Riders convicted of DUI will face a mandatory suspension of their license. They can pay fines that come along with enormous court costs and other financial penalties. Community service, including picking up trash along the highways they used to ride along, is possible.
Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Serving Victims in Spokane and Across Eastern Washington
Young riders are just as vulnerable to the mistakes of Spokane drivers as experienced motorcyclists.
After a serious accident involving a reckless driver, please speak with an experienced Spokane Motorcycle Accident Attorney. Your attorney battles frustrating auto insurance companies to make sure you have the maximum in compensation for your recovery.
Contact CCD Law to schedule a free, no-obligation case consultation. If you require our help to earn more, you don’t have to worry about how you’ll pay a lawyer. CCD Law doesn’t get paid unless we win your case for you. Then our fee comes out of the settlement check that a car insurance company must write.