With Florida’s warm weather, sunshine, and scenic highways, motorcyclists love riding in our beautiful state. If you have been considering joining the thousands of riders who enjoy riding in Florida, you need to know the relevant motorcycle laws. Before allowing a teen or anyone else to drive your bike, be sure they are of legal age and have the required permit.
Minimum Age Requirements In Florida
In Florida, you must be at least 16 years old to obtain a motorcycle permit. However, reaching the age of 16 is just the beginning of the motorcycle licensing process. Florida law has established additional requirements for young riders to help ensure they have adequate experience before receiving full riding privileges.
If you are under 18, you must hold a learner’s permit for at least 12 months without any traffic convictions before you can progress to a full motorcycle license or endorsement.
For riders under 16, Florida has established strict rules. Those under 16 cannot operate a moped or scooter on public streets or roadways. However, they can ride a scooter or moped with a motor not exceeding 150cc on private property. Under no circumstances can anyone under 16 operate a scooter with a motor exceeding 150 cc, regardless of location.
Parental Consent And Guardian Responsibilities
If you are under 18 and want to obtain a motorcycle permit in Florida, you must have parental consent. This requirement ensures that a teen’s guardians understand and accept the risks and responsibilities of allowing a young rider to operate a motorcycle on the road.
Parents and guardians should take this responsibility very seriously. Teen motorcyclists have a heightened risk on Florida’s roads, and ensuring they have the proper training, equipment, and supervision can significantly reduce their risk of accidents and injuries. Speak with a motorcycle accident attorney in the Fort Lauderdale area for more information.
Florida Motorcycle Licensing Options
In Florida, there are two paths to operate a motorcycle legally. Both require you to be at least 16 years old. The two options are:
- Motorcycle Endorsement. If you already hold a valid standard driver’s license, you can add a motorcycle endorsement. This allows you to operate both automobiles and motorcycles.
- Motorcycle-Only License. Florida offers a “Motorcycle Only” license for those who do not own a car or intend to ride a motorcycle exclusively.
Both of these options require you to complete the same training and testing. This choice depends on your personal circumstances and needs.
Helmet Requirements For Young Riders
Florida law requires all motorcyclists under 21 to wear helmets at all times while riding. Failure to wear a required helmet can result in traffic citations and can increase liability if you are involved in an accident.
The Motorcycle License Application Process
To obtain a motorcycle permit in Florida, you will need to visit a local Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles office with valid proof of your identity, proof of your Social Security number, proof that you are a Florida resident, and proof that you completed the motorcycle knowledge test.
You will also need to pass hearing and vision tests and complete the Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education course.
After obtaining your permit and completing the required waiting period and Basic Rider Course, you can apply for your full license or endorsement by paying the required fees when you submit your proof of completing the necessary tests.
How Rosen Injury Law Can Help
Even properly trained and licensed motorcyclists can be victims of negligent drivers. Motorcycle accidents often result in catastrophic injuries, and insurance companies will try to avoid liability, shift blame to you, and deny, delay, and devalue your claim.
Our Florida motorcycle accident lawyers have a proven record of securing maximum compensation for our clients. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident caused by another party, we want to help you. Call (954) 787-1500 or complete the short form on our contact page and schedule a free consultation to discuss your claim.