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OBTAINING A MOTORCYCLE ENDORSEMENT |
IDAHO MOTORCYCLE TRAINING |
SAFETY ON THE OPEN ROAD
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Obtaining a Motorcycle Endorsement
The state of Idaho requires all motorcycle operators to have a
motorcycle endorsement on their driver's license.
To earn a Motorcycle Endorsement
Riders must pass the state written ($3.00) and riding skills tests. If you are under 21:You must take and pass a motorcycle training course such as the Idaho STAR program. (If you are under 17, you must have successfully completed an approved driver's education course before enrolling in a motorcycle training course.) If you are over 21:You may take a skills test ($5.00) by a third party skills tester.
Successfully passing the Idaho STAR program does count towards the riding portion of your endorsement test. STAR participants must also pass the written test at their local Department of Motor Vehicles.
Motorcycle Riding Skills Testing
There are several ways to complete the skills portion of your motorcycle endorsement testing:- The Idaho STAR Program: Successfully passing the Idaho STAR Program qualifies you for the skills portion of your motorcycle endorsement testing
- Testing at the Department of Motor Vehicles: Skills testing is available at your local Department of Motor Vehicles. Testing is done on a first-come, first-served basis. Testing times vary by office. Click HERE for DMV location and phone numbers in Idaho.
- Testing Away from the DMV: Idaho Motorcycle Skills Testers do offer alternative testing sites and times. Download a list of Idaho Motorcycle Skills Testers.
Motorcycle Written Test
The written portion of the Idaho Motorcycle Endorsement testing may be taken at your local Department of Motor Vehicles. We recommend studying the Idaho Motor Operator’s Manual prior to taking the test.
To earn a Motorcycle Permit
If you have a valid Idaho driver’s license, you may take the written motorcycle test ($3.00) and
purchase a Motorcycle Instruction Permit ($11.50). Motorcycle Instruction Permits are valid for 6
months. The permit will allow you to ride during daylight hours only, with no freeway driving or
passengers allowed. If you return to the driver’s license office to get the endorsement before the
instruction permit expires, you will not have to pay the $11.50 one-time fee for the endorsement.
Visit the Idaho Department of Motor Vehicles website for more information
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Whether you're a novice rider looking to get your Idaho State Motorcycle Endorsement, or an experienced rider looking to refresh you riding skills, High Desert Harley-Davidson recommends the Idaho Star Program.
Frequently Asked Questions
I rode dirtbikes as a kid but haven't ridden for years. Will the STAR course bring me up to speed?
The STAR Program Basic Course is designed for people who have never been on a motorcycle before. Instruction takes place on small motorcycles and covers the most fundamental aspects of the motorcycle. People with previous riding experience and people with no riding experience can catch on very quickly.Do I have to bring my own bike for the course?
The STAR program will provide you with a motorcycle for the Basic Skills course. Motorcycles for the basic course are generally 250cc small street bikes. This is a good opportunity to learn/refresh your skills on an easy-to-operate vehicle. The Experienced Course is taught on your motorcycle. This course is a good way to fine tune your road skills on the bike you ride most: your own.
Can I get a discount on my insurance if I take a motorcycle training course?
Many insurance carriers, including Harley-Davidson Insurance will offer a discounted premium for certified riders. Contact your insurance agent for more information.
I am already a rider but would like to improve my skills. What are my options?
The Idaho STAR Program offers Experienced Rider courses as well. Courses are shorter in length than the Basic class and students use their own motorcycles. {RETURN TO TOP OF PAGE}
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Smart Riding on the Open Road |
| There is a lot more to riding safely than you might think. Even riders with thousands of miles of pavement behind them can benefit from brushing up on their safety skills. A conscientious rider is so engrained with safety knowledge, quick reaction and safe behavior becomes second nature. That's when the riding really gets good. High Desert Harley-Davidson/Buell cares about our riders and we take your safety seriously.
Below are some tips on what to do and what NOT to do while riding your Harley-Davidson® motorcycle.
Visibility
One disadvantage motorcycles have compared to cars is that they’re less visible. Taking steps to increase your visibility is an important component of managing your riding risk.Clothing
Black has long been a popular fashion choice among Harley riders, but sometimes dark colors can be hard to see. If bright, highly visible clothing does not suit your taste, consider adding a few well-placed pieces of reflective tape to your gear, especially at night. Harley-Davidson also offers apparel with reflective taping such as the conspicuity vest, rain gear, jackets, and caps.
Signals
Make sure your turn signals are working properly – and use them. In addition, consider using hand signals. Remember, most drivers are not watching for you, be sure you make them aware of your movements. Brakelight
Consider flashing your brake light as you prepare to stop for increased visibility.
Horn
Use your horn to help draw attention to yourself when necessary. But don't rely on it or overuse it.
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Positioning
Maintaining the proper lane position is a crucial part of an effective street strategy.Space
Maintain a space cushion on all sides of your motorcycle. This helps provide adequate reaction time if evasive maneuvers are necessary. It also helps create an "escape route." Lane Placement
In general, when riding alone on a straight road most people prefer to ride in the left third of the lane. It provides you the best line of sight for the road ahead, and makes you most visible to oncoming traffic. However, always be prepared to make adjustments based on road conditions and traffic patterns. Following Distance
Always leave a minimum of two seconds between you and the vehicle in front of you. The ideal following distance will vary depending on road conditions and other factors.
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S.S.E. (Search, Evaluate, Execute)
Recently, the MSF introduced a simplified version of the mental process for making judgments and taking action in traffic: S.E.E., for Search, Evaluate, and Execute.Search
As you ride, scan the area aggressively, including the areas along the road and behind you. Check your mirrors frequently to maintain a constant awareness of your surroundings. Evaluate
Use that information to evaluate the situation, predict what unexpected hazards and challenges may arise, and actively formulate strategies to deal with them. Execute
Adjust your speed and positioning accordingly, while communicating your intentions to others.
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These guidelines adapted from www.harley-davidson.com |
| Ride safe with motorcycle tips from High Desert Harley-Davidson! |
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