JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers | September 9, 2025 | California Law

Motorcycles provide freedom and adventure on the road, but not without serious risks. Riders in California must meet strict age and licensing requirements before getting on two wheels. These are designed to improve safety and reduce accidents. If you are considering motorcycle riding or know a child eager to start, here is what you need to know about legal age requirements and extra information about Encino motorcycle accidents.

What’s the Minimum Age to Ride a Motorcycle in California?

The minimum age to be legally licensed to ride a motorcycle in California is 16 years old. However, the minimum age to apply for a motorcycle learner’s permit is 15½ years old. This applies to a Class M1 or M2 permit. 

All applicants under 18 must also obtain parental or guardian consent, complete a California Highway Patrol–approved motorcycle training course, and pass the required written knowledge tests. This helps riders stay safe while sharing the road. 

In addition to age requirements, a permit must be held for at least six months before a rider under 18 can apply for a full license. This adds another layer of protection to keep inexperienced drivers from rushing onto the road. 

Permits also come with restrictions until a license is obtained: no passengers, no freeway driving, and no nighttime riding. These requirements are designed to ensure that young riders gain proper training and supervision before riding independently. 

Why Do Age Restrictions Exist?

Motorcycles are among the most dangerous vehicles on the road. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that motorcyclists are about 28 times more likely to die in a crash than passenger car occupants, and five times more likely to be injured. Younger riders are especially at risk due to limited driving experience and underdeveloped judgment in high-risk situations. 

California’s laws are designed to:

  • Encourage training before independent riding.
  • Reduce accidents among inexperienced teens.
  • Require supervised practice through the permit stage.

Introducing riders to traffic laws, handling skills, and safe practices can save lives and prevent serious injuries. These early steps help young riders build confidence while lowering risks for everyone else on the road.

What Are the Potential Consequences for Riding Underage or Without a License?

Riding without meeting California’s minimum age and licensing requirements is unlawful and can result in more than just a traffic ticket. 

The penalties can affect both the rider and their family:

  • Traffic citations and fines: Underage riders caught without a valid permit or license may face costly fines, points on their driving record, and possible impoundment of their motorcycle.
  • Suspension or delay of future licensing: The California DMV may suspend a rider’s driving privileges or delay their ability to obtain a regular driver’s license once they reach legal age.
  • Increased liability in an accident: Insurance companies often deny coverage to unlicensed or underage riders who cause a crash. This can leave the rider’s family personally responsible for medical expenses, property damage, and other damages.
  • Civil liability: Injured parties may pursue lawsuits directly against the unlicensed or underage rider and their parents. Courts may treat riding without a license as negligence, making it easier for victims to prove liability.
  • Parental responsibility: Parents or guardians who knowingly allow an underage child to ride a motorcycle could face legal exposure.

Breaking these rules can have long-lasting financial and legal consequences. What might seem like “just letting a teen practice” can create a major headache if an accident occurs. Parents and young riders alike should understand that riding without the proper license or permit can lead to legal penalties and civil liability.

Contact JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation 

In California, the minimum age to ride a motorcycle is 16 years old, though teens at age 15 ½ can start with a restricted permit. These laws are designed to protect young riders and the public. 

Unfortunately, even experienced riders face dangers on the road. If you or your loved one has been injured in a motorcycle crash, speaking with an experienced Encino personal injury lawyer can help protect your rights. Contact JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers today at (833) 852-3600 for a free, no-obligation consultation. 

Our main office is in Encino, CA, but we serve all through Los Angeles County.

JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers
16633 Ventura Blvd suite 1011,
Encino, CA 91436