If this is your first time buying a motorcycle, you may be wondering how you can get a motorcycle license/endorsement without owning a motorcycle. And, you’re not alone. 

When getting your driver’s license, things were a lot simpler. A parent likely taught you to drive using their vehicle. 

But, it’s not as easy to find someone willing to let a beginner practice on their precious bike.

The good news is you can purchase a motorcycle before or after you get your motorcycle license/endorsement. To see which option is best, continue reading below!

Buying Your Motorcycle After Getting Your License

To get your motorcycle license/endorsement, you must take a training course that is approved by your state’s DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles). 

Most organizations provide their students with motorcycles for the duration of the course. Therefore, there is no need to purchase a motorcycle before getting your motorcycle license/endorsement. 

And, if you get your license/endorsement first, you won’t have to pay to get your motorcycle transported after you buy it. You can simply ride it home. (Just make sure you get motorcycle insurance first!)

Lastly, practicing on someone else’s motorcycle will give you a feel for what you like and don’t like in a bike. Then, when you select your own, you can make an informed decision.

For advice on how to pick a motorcycle, check out this post on how to choose the best Harley for you.

Buying Your Motorcycle Before Getting Your License

Although unnecessary, you can purchase your motorcycle before getting your license/endorsement. But, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind. 

As we mentioned above, you’ll need to have your bike transported after you buy it since you are not licensed to ride.

Also, if you are buying your motorcycle from a dealer, you may need to provide them with proof of insurance to make a purchase. 

In many circumstances, you can get a motorcycle insured without a license. But, we suggest that you contact your local DMV and dealership for specific information. 

Lastly, if you were planning to use your newly purchased motorcycle during your training course, you may want to reconsider. You will be able to use your motorcycle during the class, but you wouldn’t be able to ride it there legally without a license. 

If You Are Under 18

In some states, minors as young as 14 years old can get their motorcycle permit. However, there are restrictions when riding with a learner’s permit. 

Some of these restrictions include the following:

• You must take a basic riding course approved by your state. 
• You can only ride under the supervision of a licensed rider who is over the age of 21. 
• You can only ride from dawn to dusk. 
• You cannot operate the motorcycle with a passenger. 
• You cannot operate the motorcycle outside of state lines. 

Contact your local DMV to see what restrictions apply to motorcycle permits in your state. 

In Conclusion

We would recommend getting your motorcycle license/endorsement before buying a motorcycle. It’s a lot less complicated that way. Plus, it’s best to make sure riding is for you before making such a large purchase decision. 

So, what did you decide? Let us know in the comments below! 
And, if you’d like more advice, check out our comprehensive guide on how to buy a motorcycle. It includes step-by-step instructions and advice that’ll make your buying experience more stress-free!