What Happens if You Drive a Motorcycle without a License?
Individuals in our state must have a license before entering our roadways in any motor vehicle. With that being said, there is no exception for motorcycles. If you engage in driving a motorcycle without a license, you can face severe consequences. In some cases, you could face fines and penalties.
If you want to drive a motorcycle, it is important to understand what you cannot and can do without a motorcycle license.
Can You Buy a Motorcycle Without a License?
Owning and operating a motorcycle are considered to be two very different things. In Georgia, a person can purchase a motorcycle without a license to operate the vehicle. However, the next question is can you register a motorcycle without a license?
In Georgia, a person is required to have insurance to register their vehicle. To get insurance for a motorcycle in Georgia, you must have a license to obtain the policy. That said, it can be nearly impossible for you to register the vehicle and get insurance coverage for it if you do not have a license to operate the vehicle in the first place.
Can You Get a Motorcycle License without a Driver's License?
In Georgia, you can obtain a motorcycle license without having a regular driver's license. However, the process is slightly different for those who have never held any type of license before. Depending on the circumstances, you may need to complete an approved safety program before taking the necessary exams at DDS. However, the process of getting a motorcycle license is straightforward.
To get your motorcycle license in Georgia, you must first complete an approved Motorcycle Safety Program course. This program consists of classroom instruction and hands-on training on safely operating a motorcycle.
Once you have completed the program, you will be issued a Motorcycle License Test Waiver that allows you to skip the on-road skills test at the Department of Driver Services (DDS). Instead, you'll only need to pass the written knowledge test at DDS to receive your Class M motorcycle endorsement.
It's important to note that if you hold a regular driver's license in Georgia or another state, completing this Motorcycle Safety Program course is not required. You may simply take and pass both the written and on-road skills tests at DDS to obtain your Class M endorsement.
What Happens if You Drive a Motorcycle without a License?
Driving a motorcycle in the state of Georgia without having a license is incredibly illegal. You can face significant fines and imprisonment if caught operating a motorcycle without the proper license. Sometimes, you may have to perform community service hours or even remain on probation for several months. Additionally, your motorcycle will be impounded until you have the proper licensing to operate.
Unfortunately, operating a motorcycle without a license puts you at risk of being in trouble legally and increases the likelihood of a motor vehicle accident.
What Happens if You Are Involved in a Motorcycle Accident without a License?
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident without a valid driver's license, you may face serious legal consequences. Not only will you face charges for violating the law, but you may also face civil lawsuits from any other person involved in the accident if they have suffered injuries or property damage due to the crash.
It is important to remember that operating any type of vehicle requires proper training and licensing. If you plan on riding a motorcycle regularly, you must obtain a motorcycle license and adequate training to operate the vehicle safely and responsibly.
If you are ever involved in an incident where a person suffers injuries or property damage due to your actions, you may face legal charges. Seeking guidance from our knowledgeable legal team, Steelhorse Law can provide more information regarding your rights and options moving forward. If you want aggressive legal representation, contact our team to schedule a free consultation.
