Going to take written/riding test at the dmv. - Motorcycle-Journal Forums

bookzguy · 08-08-2005, 09:58 PM

I live in texas and about to take the written/riding test at the dmv this coming up wednesday. I didn't take the msf course because it was just way too expensive and that I've been riding for roughly 4 years and owned a 5 speed dirtbike before. What should I prepare for when taking the written test, is it hard? or mostly common sense. Should I study something before taking it? Also about the riding test, will it be simple and forward? If I pass both test at the dmv, will they issue me a motorcycle license there right away? ~thanks in advance

MagnumForce · 08-08-2005, 10:17 PM

I too have taken the test at the DMV, although it was in Cali while I was visiting folks. You should either obtain the hard copy of the study guide at the DMV or download the electronic version at their website. When I did the written test, I had to complete half of the Class C test and all of the Class M test. After I passed, I was issued a permit good for one year. I took the ride test 8 days after I got the permit and passed with flying colors. When I did the ride test, I was tested on how well I maintained a straight path between parallel lines spaced 2 feet apart. I also weaved around cones and completed a series of tight circles and u-turns. The key here is being able to control your bike at slow speeds and using your clutch effectively. Practice your slow riding skills, weaves, turns, and straightline maneuvers religiously before you test. Practicing with an experienced rider who has taken the test previously is a great bonus. You will be in 1st or 2nd gear during that test. It would be wise to rent or borrow a friend's small displacement bike for the test as it would be easier to control under those conditions. I used a Ninja 250R for the practice and the test. Please keep in mind I tested in California although you may encounter similar situations in your state. Sorry for the long post, but I hope it helps somewhat.

bookzguy · 08-08-2005, 10:34 PM

That sounds awesome, could you take the test and riding test the same day though?

MagnumForce · 08-08-2005, 10:40 PM

That may be possible, but I would still recommend a few days of practice. I had a dirt background also and one of the habits I had to break was a tendency to stick my feet out to stabilize the bike. It works well on dirt, but it's a b**ch on pavement. During the riding test, that would be an automatic failure. Check with your DMV anyways and if they can take you, that's great. Good luck and hope to see you on the highways soon!

bookzguy · 08-08-2005, 10:51 PM

Would you say the written test way mostly common sense? I did read and review the downloadable motorcycle riding pamplet online. I also had the same tendency to stick my legs out on a dirtbike when riding it, also got pretty good at jumping it too but thats another story.

MagnumForce · 08-08-2005, 10:59 PM

On the Class C portion of the test, it was common sense to me as I have driven a car for quite some time. On the Class M, however, I had to break some paradigms due to the previous dirt experience, although much of it did translate well on the road for me. The rules of the road portion was easy enough for me though. You may want to keep in mind you turn differently on the street than you do on the dirt. On a side note, I am more of a trail rider while my bro and his son are motocrossers.

vr4wolf · 08-08-2005, 11:19 PM

Good luck.

aguyintx66 · 08-09-2005, 01:55 AM

I live in Texas and I just had to take the written portion cause I took the MSF course. The written test is common sense. There is alot of questions about what to do in intersections though. I got my endorsment as soon as I took the written. I would at least look over the motorcycle booklet they have.

bookzguy · 08-09-2005, 10:35 AM

I just took the written exam part this morning and passed, only missing 2 questions. Tomorrow I'm taking the riding exam, what should I do to prepare for this. Do most dmv places have the riding test in their parking lot or am I going to be riding around the streets having them follow me?

MagnumForce · 08-09-2005, 12:32 PM

Congrats on passing you written test. When I took the riding test, it was at the DMV parking lot with cones set up. The evaluator will tell you what maneuvers you need to execute. Remember, keep the feet off the pavement. Good luck and let us know how it went.

Fishpart · 08-09-2005, 01:32 PM

Just make sure you pratice the U turn box. and follow the instructor's rules. Good luck.

OgreRod · 08-09-2005, 03:25 PM

Wouldn't the break you get on your insurance by taking the MSF course be worth more to you in the long run?

bookzguy · 08-09-2005, 05:24 PM

No, not really right now because I bought an old bike which I'll probably keep for a long while and I just want to get it street legal with liability insurance. Getting full coverage for me at my age will be rediculous. My first deposit will be almost as much as I paid for the bike itself.

oldgeezer · 08-09-2005, 05:30 PM

When I took the riding part of the test, my wife had to come along and haul the officer in our truck. We got out on the streets and I was in the lead. The officer would instruct my wife to use her turn signal to tell me when to turn. We just did a couple of miles of riding. No emergency stops, u-turns or anything like that. Before the test, the officer made me go through a pre ride check of the bike. Obviously, you need a DOT approved helmet and as a suggestion, wear the proper gear. Good luck and let us know how it turns out. BTW, where abouts in Texas?

bookzguy · 08-09-2005, 05:41 PM

I'm in san antonio.

oldgeezer · 08-09-2005, 05:46 PM

Cool. We usually try to make one trip a year down your way and catch some theater at the Majestic. You are really close to some great riding. In the spring, I took a ride down through Brady, Mason, Junction down to Rock Springs and back. It's hard to beat the hill country.

bookzguy · 11-29-2005, 05:31 PM

UPDATE!

After a long debate on getting my class m drivers license, I finally did it! Went to the dmv and took about 5 mins of riding doing the simpliest tasks. Rode around the neighborhood and done, she passed me with a 98/100 because I wasn't turning my head far enough. Went back into the dmv and was first in line for a photo and out within 5 minutes.

blackie1491 · 11-29-2005, 05:55 PM

Awsome.
Ride safe and enjoy.

QuacktheDuck · 11-29-2005, 09:22 PM

Congrats! keep on riding safely!

ShortyGSA · 11-29-2005, 11:37 PM

Which DMV did you go to? I live in Alamo Heights and got my learner's permit in New Braunfels. The lines at Perrin-Beitel are ridiculous.........

08-08-2005, 09:58 PM	#1 (permalink)
bookzguy Seat Tester Joined: Jul 2005 Bike: 94 RF600R (96 RF-Swap) Location: TX Posts: 79	Going to take written/riding test at the dmv. I live in texas and about to take the written/riding test at the dmv this coming up wednesday. I didn't take the msf course because it was just way too expensive and that I've been riding for roughly 4 years and owned a 5 speed dirtbike before. What should I prepare for when taking the written test, is it hard? or mostly common sense. Should I study something before taking it? Also about the riding test, will it be simple and forward? If I pass both test at the dmv, will they issue me a motorcycle license there right away? ~thanks in advance

08-08-2005, 10:17 PM	#2 (permalink)
MagnumForce Throttle Jockey Joined: May 2005 Bike: 05 M50, 06 CBR600F4i Location: Sitting on the can... duh! Posts: 3,160	I too have taken the test at the DMV, although it was in Cali while I was visiting folks. You should either obtain the hard copy of the study guide at the DMV or download the electronic version at their website. When I did the written test, I had to complete half of the Class C test and all of the Class M test. After I passed, I was issued a permit good for one year. I took the ride test 8 days after I got the permit and passed with flying colors. When I did the ride test, I was tested on how well I maintained a straight path between parallel lines spaced 2 feet apart. I also weaved around cones and completed a series of tight circles and u-turns. The key here is being able to control your bike at slow speeds and using your clutch effectively. Practice your slow riding skills, weaves, turns, and straightline maneuvers religiously before you test. Practicing with an experienced rider who has taken the test previously is a great bonus. You will be in 1st or 2nd gear during that test. It would be wise to rent or borrow a friend's small displacement bike for the test as it would be easier to control under those conditions. I used a Ninja 250R for the practice and the test. Please keep in mind I tested in California although you may encounter similar situations in your state. Sorry for the long post, but I hope it helps somewhat. __________________ "I love the smell of toner in the morning… it's the smell of victory!" MAJ M, Staff Officer

08-08-2005, 10:40 PM	#4 (permalink)
MagnumForce Throttle Jockey Joined: May 2005 Bike: 05 M50, 06 CBR600F4i Location: Sitting on the can... duh! Posts: 3,160	That may be possible, but I would still recommend a few days of practice. I had a dirt background also and one of the habits I had to break was a tendency to stick my feet out to stabilize the bike. It works well on dirt, but it's a b**ch on pavement. During the riding test, that would be an automatic failure. Check with your DMV anyways and if they can take you, that's great. Good luck and hope to see you on the highways soon! __________________ "I love the smell of toner in the morning… it's the smell of victory!" MAJ M, Staff Officer

08-08-2005, 10:59 PM	#6 (permalink)
MagnumForce Throttle Jockey Joined: May 2005 Bike: 05 M50, 06 CBR600F4i Location: Sitting on the can... duh! Posts: 3,160	On the Class C portion of the test, it was common sense to me as I have driven a car for quite some time. On the Class M, however, I had to break some paradigms due to the previous dirt experience, although much of it did translate well on the road for me. The rules of the road portion was easy enough for me though. You may want to keep in mind you turn differently on the street than you do on the dirt. On a side note, I am more of a trail rider while my bro and his son are motocrossers. __________________ "I love the smell of toner in the morning… it's the smell of victory!" MAJ M, Staff Officer

08-08-2005, 11:19 PM	#7 (permalink)
vr4wolf Seat Tester Joined: Jul 2005 Bike: 2002 Katana 600 Location: central FL Posts: 57	Good luck. __________________ 2002 Suzuki Katana 600. Laid down by previous owner. Currently awaiting new fairings. 1991 3000GT Vr-4. Short throw shifter, Denso Irridium spark plugs, Greddy turbo timer, NGK 8.8mm spark plug cables, Free boost mod, 99 Center Panel (rear), and spun crank bearing!

08-08-2005, 10:34 PM	#3 (permalink)
bookzguy Seat Tester Joined: Jul 2005 Bike: 94 RF600R (96 RF-Swap) Location: TX Posts: 79	That sounds awesome, could you take the test and riding test the same day though?

08-08-2005, 10:51 PM	#5 (permalink)
bookzguy Seat Tester Joined: Jul 2005 Bike: 94 RF600R (96 RF-Swap) Location: TX Posts: 79	Would you say the written test way mostly common sense? I did read and review the downloadable motorcycle riding pamplet online. I also had the same tendency to stick my legs out on a dirtbike when riding it, also got pretty good at jumping it too but thats another story.

08-09-2005, 01:55 AM	#8 (permalink)
aguyintx66 Seat Tester Joined: Jun 2005 Bike: 2005 Boulevard M50 Blue Location: Houston, TX Posts: 70	I live in Texas and I just had to take the written portion cause I took the MSF course. The written test is common sense. There is alot of questions about what to do in intersections though. I got my endorsment as soon as I took the written. I would at least look over the motorcycle booklet they have.

08-09-2005, 10:35 AM	#9 (permalink)
bookzguy Seat Tester Joined: Jul 2005 Bike: 94 RF600R (96 RF-Swap) Location: TX Posts: 79	I just took the written exam part this morning and passed, only missing 2 questions. Tomorrow I'm taking the riding exam, what should I do to prepare for this. Do most dmv places have the riding test in their parking lot or am I going to be riding around the streets having them follow me?

08-09-2005, 12:32 PM	#10 (permalink)
MagnumForce Throttle Jockey Joined: May 2005 Bike: 05 M50, 06 CBR600F4i Location: Sitting on the can... duh! Posts: 3,160	Congrats on passing you written test. When I took the riding test, it was at the DMV parking lot with cones set up. The evaluator will tell you what maneuvers you need to execute. Remember, keep the feet off the pavement. Good luck and let us know how it went. __________________ "I love the smell of toner in the morning… it's the smell of victory!" MAJ M, Staff Officer

08-09-2005, 01:32 PM	#11 (permalink)
Fishpart Fourth gear and illegal Joined: Apr 2005 Bike: 2007 Harley Davidson Electa Glide Location: York, Pa Posts: 783	Just make sure you pratice the U turn box. and follow the instructor's rules. Good luck.

08-09-2005, 03:25 PM	#12 (permalink)
OgreRod Where Am I ? Joined: May 2004 Location: Ocala, Florida Posts: 38	Wouldn't the break you get on your insurance by taking the MSF course be worth more to you in the long run? __________________ The time has come the walrus said to speak of many things

08-09-2005, 05:24 PM	#13 (permalink)
bookzguy Seat Tester Joined: Jul 2005 Bike: 94 RF600R (96 RF-Swap) Location: TX Posts: 79	No, not really right now because I bought an old bike which I'll probably keep for a long while and I just want to get it street legal with liability insurance. Getting full coverage for me at my age will be rediculous. My first deposit will be almost as much as I paid for the bike itself.

08-09-2005, 05:30 PM	#14 (permalink)
oldgeezer Handlebar Consultant Joined: Aug 2004 Location: Texas Posts: 646	When I took the riding part of the test, my wife had to come along and haul the officer in our truck. We got out on the streets and I was in the lead. The officer would instruct my wife to use her turn signal to tell me when to turn. We just did a couple of miles of riding. No emergency stops, u-turns or anything like that. Before the test, the officer made me go through a pre ride check of the bike. Obviously, you need a DOT approved helmet and as a suggestion, wear the proper gear. Good luck and let us know how it turns out. BTW, where abouts in Texas? __________________ Oh, he's very popular Ed. The sportos, the motorheads, geeks, sluts, bloods, wastoids, dweebies, d!ckheads--they all adore him. They think he's a righteous dude.

08-09-2005, 05:41 PM	#15 (permalink)
bookzguy Seat Tester Joined: Jul 2005 Bike: 94 RF600R (96 RF-Swap) Location: TX Posts: 79	I'm in san antonio.

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08-09-2005, 05:46 PM	#16 (permalink)
oldgeezer Handlebar Consultant Joined: Aug 2004 Location: Texas Posts: 646	Cool. We usually try to make one trip a year down your way and catch some theater at the Majestic. You are really close to some great riding. In the spring, I took a ride down through Brady, Mason, Junction down to Rock Springs and back. It's hard to beat the hill country. __________________ Oh, he's very popular Ed. The sportos, the motorheads, geeks, sluts, bloods, wastoids, dweebies, d!ckheads--they all adore him. They think he's a righteous dude.

11-29-2005, 05:31 PM	#17 (permalink)
bookzguy Seat Tester Joined: Jul 2005 Bike: 94 RF600R (96 RF-Swap) Location: TX Posts: 79	UPDATE! After a long debate on getting my class m drivers license, I finally did it! Went to the dmv and took about 5 mins of riding doing the simpliest tasks. Rode around the neighborhood and done, she passed me with a 98/100 because I wasn't turning my head far enough. Went back into the dmv and was first in line for a photo and out within 5 minutes.

11-29-2005, 05:55 PM	#18 (permalink)
blackie1491 I took the All Bran Challenge Joined: Jun 2005 Bike: C50SE Location: Aldergrove, B.C., Canada Posts: 7,333	Awsome. Ride safe and enjoy.

11-29-2005, 09:22 PM	#19 (permalink)
QuacktheDuck Sprocket Pilot Joined: May 2005 Bike: 2004 FZ6 Location: Torrance, CA Posts: 858	Congrats! keep on riding safely!

11-29-2005, 11:37 PM	#20 (permalink)
ShortyGSA Newbie Joined: Oct 2005 Bike: '05 katana 600 Location: San Antonio, TX Posts: 10	Which DMV did you go to? I live in Alamo Heights and got my learner's permit in New Braunfels. The lines at Perrin-Beitel are ridiculous.........