Many riders have had similar questions regarding renewing permits or working with their local DMV. Below I have some of the key questions I have helped riders with.
QUESTION: My permit expired; can I still attend the class?
ANSWER: Yes, provided you have passed the PERMIT TEST within the last nine months, you may attend the class and attempt the Motorcycle endorsement test. To qualify, ensure you have a current passing score on file within the applicable renewal period before testing for a motorcycle endorsement. After passing the permit test, send your SC driver’s license number via email or text; your information will be forwarded to the DMV contact for verification of your passing score.
If you have not previously held a permit, visit the DMV to take the MC permit test. If you have ever held a South Carolina motorcycle permit, the DMV will not issue a new permit without a license test. There may be exceptions to this policy; some DMV employees may not be fully aware of the details.
It is recommended to study in advance for the permit test by downloading and reviewing the SC motorcycle permit study guide online and practicing with sample tests before visiting the DMV.
QUESTION: I have a car license from another state, can I take your training?
ANSWER: Yes, all individuals may attend the training. However, only certain states accept the MSF completion card at their DMV for licensing or waivers. According to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF-USA.ORG), the following states accept the MSF completion card as a riding test waiver. Note: South Carolina requires special paperwork, which is completed after course completion.
If you have a license from any of these states, you can attend our Learn to Ride class here in SC, then take your MSF completion card to your state’s DMV for your motorcycle endorsement.
Eligible states include:
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Florida
- Idaho
- Indiana
- Maine
- Massachusetts
- Mississippi
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Mexico
- Oklahoma
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- West Virginia
If the state you reside in is not listed, click here to see if your state’s licensing authority accepts completion cards from other states as a Skills Test and/or Written Test Waiver.
Please verify State Licensing Skills Test Waiver and/or State Licensing Written Test Waiver availability with your training provider.
QUESTION: Where do I get the SC motorcycle permit study book? How much is it?
ANSWER: it’s free on line.
DMV study booklet: https://scdmvonline.com/-/media/Files/Motorcycle-Manual.ashx
The permit test costs $2.50 to take.
QUESTION: Do I need to set an appointment to take the Permit test? When can I take it?
ANSWER: You don’t need an appointment at the DMV—just arrive early enough to finish the test, as testing ends at 4pm.
QUESTION: Do I need to hold my MC permit for 180 days before I can test for my license?
ANSWER: No, as long as riders are Licensed CAR drivers, for at least 6 months and over 17yo there is no waiting period.
Anyone under the age of 17 that desires their motorcycle license will be required to take the written rules of the road test at the DMV and hold that permit for a minimum of 180 days before a license is issued. And, riders under 17, must bring the certification of School Attendance, Driver’s Education and a completed Driving practice (SCDMV form PDLA) from a car driver training school.
QUESTION: I have more questions, where can I get the right information about the SC DMV?
ANSWER: Click this link to go to the SC DMV Q/A Page:
https://scdmvonline.com/Driver-Services/Drivers-License/Beginner-Permits
QUESTION: My child wants to learn to ride, how old must they be, are there any special requirements?
ANSWER: In SC 15-16yo can ride legally, but there are several stipulations. 1 – They must hold a permit for 180 days, 2 – They must complete a CAR DRIVERS SAFETY COURSE (we do not offer) 3 – Go to the DMV site or contact the DMV for more information