PA Motorcycle Permit Test flashcards

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

Class M learner's permit age

In Pennsylvania, an applicant must be at least 16 years old and hold a valid driver's license or learner's permit to obtain a Class M motorcycle learner's permit.

Parental consent for minors

Applicants under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign the DL-180 application form; a missing signature causes rejection of the permit application.

Class M knowledge test score

The motorcycle knowledge test has 20 questions, and a passing score is 80 percent, meaning the applicant must answer at least 16 correctly.

Learner's permit validity period

A Pennsylvania motorcycle learner's permit is valid for one year and may be renewed; it permits riding only in daylight while accompanied by a licensed rider 21 or older.

Permit passenger and highway limits

A learner's permit holder may not carry passengers and may not ride on limited-access highways; both restrictions end when the Class M license is issued.

Basic Rider Course skills waiver

Completing an approved Basic Rider Course can waive the Class M skills test; after passing the knowledge test, the rider receives a 90-day license by mail.

Class M skills test components

The skills test includes a cone weave, U-turn, normal stop, sharp turn, swerve, and quick stop; riders must bring a street-legal motorcycle and protective gear.

Out-of-state license transfer

A valid out-of-state motorcycle license transfers to Pennsylvania without a skills test; a motorcycle-only permit from another state does not transfer as a full license.

SIPDE scanning process

SIPDE stands for Scan, Identify, Predict, Decide, Execute; riders apply it continuously to detect hazards and choose a safe response before a crisis develops.

Two-second following rule

Maintain at least two seconds behind the vehicle ahead in normal conditions; increase to four seconds or more in rain, gravel, darkness, or heavy traffic.

Countersteering above 12 mph

Above roughly 12 mph, press the handgrip on the side you want to turn toward; the motorcycle leans and turns in that direction, a technique called countersteering.

Front brake stopping power

On dry pavement the front brake provides about 70 percent of stopping power; apply both brakes together with more pressure on the front lever.

Swerve and brake separation

Do not brake and swerve at the same time; brake first and then swerve, or swerve first and brake once the motorcycle is upright again.

Target fixation avoidance

Look through the turn toward the exit rather than at the hazard; the motorcycle tends to follow the rider's line of sight, so fixating on an obstacle invites a crash.

Lane position for visibility

Ride in the left third of the lane to be seen by oncoming traffic; move to the right third when a left-turning vehicle threatens your path.

Single-vehicle crash causes

Most single-vehicle motorcycle crashes involve a cornering error or running off the road, and alcohol and fatigue are leading contributing factors.

Full lane entitlement

A motorcycle is entitled to a full lane, and no other vehicle may share that lane; lane splitting is not permitted in Pennsylvania.

Side-by-side motorcycle riding

Two motorcycles may ride side by side in one lane only if both riders consent; three abreast in a single lane is illegal in Pennsylvania.

Daytime headlight requirement

Pennsylvania law requires a motorcycle's headlight to be on at all times while the motorcycle is being operated, including during daylight hours.

Turn signal distance

Signal at least 100 feet before a turn in normal traffic; signals are required for lane changes as well as for turns at intersections.

Helmet law under 21

Pennsylvania requires an approved helmet for all riders under 21 and for every rider holding a learner's permit, regardless of the rider's age.

Helmet exemption for adults

Riders 21 and older may ride without a helmet only after two years of riding experience or completion of an approved rider course, unless the motorcycle is exempt.

Passenger seat and footrests

A passenger must sit on a seat designed for a passenger and use footrests provided for that position; carrying a passenger on a solo seat is illegal.

Red light obedience

A motorcycle must obey all traffic signals, signs, and pavement markings; a rider may not proceed through a red light even when no traffic is present.

Required lighting equipment

A motorcycle needs at least one headlamp, a taillight, a brake light, a license plate lamp, and a rear reflector visible from 500 feet.

Turn signal model year rule

Turn signals are required on motorcycles manufactured after January 1, 1973; older motorcycles may use hand signals instead of electric turn signals.

Brake performance standard

Brakes must stop the motorcycle within 30 feet from 20 mph on a dry, level surface; test brakes before each ride and after any maintenance.

Tire tread and condition

Tires must have at least 1/32 inch of tread depth with no cuts, bulges, or exposed cords; check tire pressure when tires are cold before each ride.

Mirror requirement

A rearview mirror is required on the left side of the motorcycle; a second mirror on the right side is recommended but is not mandatory equipment.

Muffler and noise limits

The exhaust system must include a muffler and may not be modified to raise noise above legal limits; straight pipes without mufflers are illegal.

Horn and handlebar limits

A horn audible at 200 feet is required equipment, and handlebars may not rise more than 15 inches above the seat on a Pennsylvania motorcycle.

T-CLOCS pre-ride inspection

T-CLOCS stands for Tires, Controls, Lights, Oil, Chassis, and Stands; any failed item means the motorcycle should not be ridden until repaired.