California Motorcycle Permit Exam Simulator
A full-length mock motorcycle knowledge test: California does not publish the count or pass mark; we use 30 questions at 80%. New questions every attempt.
How this simulator works
- Knowledge test: 30 questions, 24 correct to pass.
- No time limit, like the real test. Take your time.
- You won’t see whether you were right until the end, just like at the California test. Then you can review every answer with its explanation.
- Questions are drawn fresh from the full California bank each time.
Sample questions
Which restriction applies to a California Class M1/M2 motorcycle instruction permit?
- A You may carry one passenger who is 21 or older
- B You may carry a passenger only in daylight
- C You may carry a passenger who holds a Class M1
- D You may not carry any passengers
Show answer
D. You may not carry any passengers
The California motorcycle instruction permit comes with three restrictions, and one is that you may not carry passengers. A passenger changes how the motorcycle balances, brakes and speeds up, which is too much for a rider who is still learning.
Under California Vehicle Code §27803, who must wear a U.S. DOT compliant motorcycle safety helmet?
- A All riders and all passengers
- B Only riders under 21 years old
- C Only the rider, not the passenger
- D Only riders on freeways
Show answer
A. All riders and all passengers
California has a universal helmet law: every rider and passenger on a motorcycle, motor-driven cycle or motorized bicycle must wear a U.S. DOT compliant helmet. Head injuries cause most serious and fatal motorcycle injuries, and helmets greatly reduce them.
Which brake provides most of a motorcycle's stopping power?
- A The rear brake, about three-quarters
- B Both brakes provide equal power
- C The engine brake when downshifting
- D The front brake, about three-quarters
Show answer
D. The front brake, about three-quarters
The front brake provides about three-quarters of your stopping power because weight shifts onto the front wheel as you slow. Use both brakes every time you stop so the habit is automatic in an emergency.
Under normal conditions, what following distance does the California Motorcycle Handbook recommend?
- A At least one second
- B At least two seconds
- C At least four seconds
- D One motorcycle length per 10 mph
Show answer
B. At least two seconds
Normally keep a two-second following distance, counted from when the vehicle ahead passes a fixed marker. It gives you a minimum amount of space to stop or swerve and a better view of potholes and hazards.