by Zayed Al-Sayyed

Arizona Motorcycle AttorneySeptember 6, 20210 comments

Is a Motorcycle License Required in Arizona?

With one of the most diverse landscapes in the country, Arizona is home to breathtaking scenery everywhere you turn. Long stretches of cactus-lined highway give way to striking backdrops of alpine mountainscapes and canyons. It’s a haven for motorcycle riders, which is likely why there are over 180,000 registered motorcycle riders in Arizona.

If you’re looking to trade in your hatchback for a Harley, you may be wondering ‘is a motorcycle license required in Arizona?’ The answer is yes. Our team of experienced motorcycle accident attorneys at The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed is sharing everything you need to know about getting a motorcycle license in Arizona. By the time you’ve finished reading, you will be ready to take on the open road.

Eligibility for Obtaining a Motorcycle License in AZ

In Arizona, you are required to obtain a motorcycle license or a Class M endorsement on your existing driver’s license. When applying for a motorcycle license in Arizona, you must satisfy the following requirements:

• You must be over the age of 16.
• If you are under the age of 18, you must have held an Arizona instruction permit for a minimum of 6 months.
• You must have completed a motorcycle driver education program approved by the MVD or have a signed document from a parent or guardian stating that you have completed at least 30 hours of motorcycle driving practice.

If you hold an active out-of-state motorcycle license or Class M endorsement, then you are exempt from the driver education and instruction permit requirements.

Motorcycle Registration Process in AZ

All motorcycles purchased in Arizona must be registered with the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) within 15 days of purchase. If you do not meet the required deadline, you are likely to be penalized with heavy fines or even a suspension of your license.

When purchasing a motorcycle from a dealer, the dealer is responsible for sending your registration papers to your home address. They may also offer you a temporary motorcycle registration document to use until the official paperwork arrives at your home. Before leaving the dealership, you should always check with the dealer to see if there are any further actions required on your part.

Motorcycle Laws in Arizona 

Below are some of the most important motorcycle laws in Arizona to keep in mind.

Motorcycle Helmet Law in Arizona

A.R.S. § 28-964 requires all motorcycle riders under the age of 18 to wear a helmet. While it is recommended for safety purposes that all riders wear a helmet at all times, the law only pertains to riders under 18 years of age. Motorcyclists can choose between full-face and three-quarter helmets.

Additional Safety Equipment Laws for Motorcycles

Arizona law requires the use of a transparent face shield, goggles, or protective glasses for all riders. Another alternative is to use a protective motorcycle windshield. It is important to keep your windshield free of debris or damage, as this can distract the driver from the road and present a potential safety concern.

According to Arizona state legislation, all motorcycles must have a decent seat and footrests for the rider and any passengers, as well as a sideview mirror and working headlights.

Motorcycle Noise Laws in Arizona

The maximum noise output of a motorcycle muffler is measured 50 feet from the center of the road. Arizona law requires you to utilize the motorcycle’s original muffler. If the original is faulty, it is suggested that noise reduction components be installed to ensure that your motorcycle adheres to state noise laws.

Motorcycle Lane-Sharing Laws in Arizona

Arizona’s lane-sharing laws for motorcyclists are as follows:

• Motorcyclists have the right to utilize the whole lane.
• It is illegal to ride your motorcycle in the center of the road or between adjacent rows of automobiles (lane splitting).
• It is illegal to have more than two bikes in a single lane.

Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Phoenix, AZ

Here at The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed, our award-winning team handles each case with compassion and efficiency. After suffering through a motorcycle accident, many people become overwhelmed and wind up being taken advantage of by greedy insurance companies. Our job is to make sure that doesn’t happen.

If you or a loved one has been in a motorcycle accident in Phoenix, contact us today to schedule a free consultation with one of our skilled motorcycle accident attorneys. Find out why we are known as one of the top personal injury law firms in Phoenix, AZ.