Iowa Motorcycle Permit Exam Simulator

A full-length mock motorcycle knowledge test: Iowa 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 Iowa test. Then you can review every answer with its explanation.
  • Questions are drawn fresh from the full Iowa bank each time.

Sample questions

  1. You are 16 and hold an Iowa motorcycle instruction permit. Which of these people may supervise you without any extra paperwork?

    • A Your 19-year-old cousin who is licensed with a motorcycle endorsement
    • B Your sister, over age 21, licensed with a motorcycle endorsement
    • C Any licensed adult rider who agrees to follow close behind you
    • D A 30-year-old neighbor with a car license but no motorcycle endorsement
    Show answer

    B. Your sister, over age 21, licensed with a motorcycle endorsement

    Under 18, you may ride with a licensed parent or guardian who has a motorcycle endorsement, or with a licensed immediate family member who has the endorsement and is at least 21. Anyone else needs to be 25 or older and carry your parent's written permission. The rules make sure your coach is both an experienced rider and someone your family trusts.

    Source: Iowa Motorcycle Operator's Manual (MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual, 18th revision), page 6

  2. What does the front brake provide when you brake?

    • A Only enough to hold the motorcycle on a hill
    • B About 25% of your total stopping power
    • C About half of your total stopping power
    • D 70% or more of your total stopping power
    Show answer

    D. 70% or more of your total stopping power

    The front brake is more powerful and can provide 70% or more of your total stopping power, because braking shifts the motorcycle's weight onto the front tire. Use both brakes every time you slow or stop so that using them correctly becomes automatic in an emergency.

    Source: Iowa Motorcycle Operator's Manual (MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual, 18th revision), page 15

  3. Under normal conditions, what is the minimum following distance the manual recommends behind another vehicle?

    • A Four seconds
    • B One second
    • C One motorcycle length per 10 mph
    • D Two seconds
    Show answer

    D. Two seconds

    Normally, keep a minimum of two seconds behind the vehicle you are following: count from when its rear passes a marker until you reach it. Motorcycles need as much distance to stop as cars, and the gap gives you room to stop or swerve and a better view of road hazards.

    Source: Iowa Motorcycle Operator's Manual (MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual, 18th revision), page 18

  4. During a quick stop your front wheel locks. What should you do?

    • A Release the front brake immediately, then reapply it
    • B Pump the rear brake to bring the front back
    • C Hold the front brake and steer to keep balance
    • D Release both brakes and coast to a stop
    Show answer

    A. Release the front brake immediately, then reapply it

    If the front wheel locks, release the front brake lever immediately and reapply it smoothly. A skidding front wheel causes immediate loss of steering control and balance, and failing to release the lever fully will result in a crash.

    Source: Iowa Motorcycle Operator's Manual (MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual, 18th revision), page 30