Traffic Laws and Rules of the Road for Motorcyclists
Same rights, same duties
A motorcycle is a vehicle and generally must follow the same traffic laws as cars: obey signals and signs, drive on the right, signal lane changes and turns, and yield as required. A frequent trap is the idea that a motorcycle may share a lane with a car or ride between lanes. Lane splitting and lane sharing are restricted or prohibited in most jurisdictions; unless your state's manual explicitly allows a specific practice, treat it as illegal. Two motorcycles may sometimes share a lane, but only where the law permits and only with the other rider's consent.
Licensing and passengers
You need a motorcycle endorsement or permit for the class of bike you ride. A permit usually carries restrictions such as no passengers, no night riding, or riding only with a supervising licensed rider. Passengers require a seat and footrests designed for them; carrying a passenger changes handling and braking distance.
Helmets and equipment law
Helmet laws vary: some states require helmets for all riders, others only for riders under a certain age. Know your state's rule, and know that a legal helmet must meet the federal safety standard. Eye protection is often required when the bike lacks a windshield.
Signals and positioning
Signal before every turn and lane change, cancel afterward, and position yourself in the lane where you are most visible and lawful. Obey posted speed limits; excessive speed reduces your time to react and increases crash severity.
Worked rule of thumb
When a question asks whether a maneuver is legal, first ask: "Would this be legal in a car?" If not, it is legal on a motorcycle only if your state's manual names it as an exception.
Traps to watch
Questions about lane position, lane splitting, and passenger rules are the most common places candidates lose points; read the wording for "must" versus "should."