Arkansas Motorcycle Permit Test cheat sheet

A motorcycle endorsement (code M) is added to a valid Arkansas driver's license; a stand-alone motorcycle-only license may be issued to applicants who do not hold a regular license.

Class D covers standard passenger vehicles and light trucks; a motorcycle endorsement on a Class D license authorizes operation of a motorcycle in addition to the passenger vehicle.

Applicants under 18 must hold a learner's permit or instruction permit for at least 30 days and complete a state-approved motorcycle rider education course before skills testing.

The Arkansas motorcycle knowledge test covers riding skills, traffic laws, and safe operation; a passing score is generally 80 percent, and the skills test is scheduled separately.

A motorcycle learner's permit restricts riding to daylight hours, prohibits carrying passengers, and requires helmet use and supervision consistent with permit rules.

Applicants must present proof of identity, residency, and lawful status, and pass vision screening; a DOT-compliant helmet is required for the skills test.

Riders under 21 must wear a DOT-approved helmet; riders 21 and older may ride without a helmet only if they carry proof of at least $25,000 in medical insurance coverage.

An instruction permit for motorcycle operation is valid for a limited period and must be converted to an endorsement by completing testing before it expires.

A corrective-lenses restriction (commonly code A) requires the licensee to wear glasses or contact lenses whenever operating a motor vehicle, including a motorcycle.

A daylight-only restriction limits riding to the period from sunrise to sunset; night riding under this restriction is a violation of the license terms.

A motorcycle learner's permit typically carries daylight-only and no-passenger restrictions regardless of the rider's age.

An outside-mirror or prosthetic-aid restriction requires the specified device to be in use whenever the vehicle is operated; operating without it violates the license.

Hearing-aid restrictions require the device to be worn while riding when the license was issued with that condition.

Restrictions appear on the face of the license; riding in violation can result in citation, suspension, or denial of insurance coverage.

A motorcycle-only license limits operation to motorcycles and does not authorize driving a car, truck, or other passenger vehicle.

Restrictions may be removed only by re-testing or providing medical documentation acceptable to the Arkansas driver licensing authority.

The front brake provides the majority of stopping power; apply both brakes simultaneously and progressively to avoid skidding or loss of control.

Countersteering: at speeds above roughly 12 mph, press the grip in the direction of the desired turn to lean and initiate the turn.

In a curve, slow before entering, look through the turn toward the exit, and roll on the throttle smoothly after the apex.

Follow the four-second rule for following distance in normal conditions; increase to more than four seconds in rain, gravel, or low visibility.

Scan 12 seconds ahead and check mirrors frequently; a motorcycle's small profile makes it easy for other drivers to miss.

Avoid the center of the lane where oil drips accumulate at intersections; ride in the left or right portion of the lane for visibility and traction.

When carrying a passenger, increase tire pressure and suspension preload per the owner's manual, and allow extra stopping distance.

Braking in a curve: straighten the bike first where possible, then brake; grabbing the front brake while leaned over risks a slide-out.

Alcohol impairs balance, judgment, and reaction time; Arkansas law presumes intoxication at a BAC of 0.08 percent for adults operating a motorcycle.

A motorcycle is entitled to a full lane; no other vehicle may share the lane with a motorcycle, and two motorcycles may ride side by side only if both riders consent.

Lane splitting and sharing a lane with a car are not permitted under Arkansas law; a motorcycle must occupy the lane as a vehicle does.

Arkansas requires headlights on at all times for motorcycle operation; daytime headlight use increases conspicuity.

Turn signals must be used for lane changes and turns; hand signals are permitted when a turn signal is not equipped or is not functioning.

Following too closely, failure to yield, and unsafe lane changes are leading causes of motorcycle crashes; maintain space and signal intentions early.

At a stop sign or red light, a motorcycle must come to a complete stop; proceed only when the right-of-way rules permit.

A red octagon means stop; a yellow diamond warns of hazards such as curves or gravel; a yellow pennant marks a no-passing zone.

When sharing the road, watch for vehicles turning left across your path and for cars emerging from driveways; reduce speed and cover the brakes.

Carrying a passenger or cargo requires the motorcycle to be equipped with a proper seat and footrests, and cargo must be secured and not interfere with control.