Washington Motorcycle Permit Practice Test 2

20 questions written from the Washington Motorcycle Operator Manual, with an explanation and page citation for every answer.

Question 1 of 20
Protective gearWashington rule

What kind of helmet does Washington law require motorcycle riders to wear?

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Sample questions

  1. What kind of helmet does Washington law require motorcycle riders to wear?

    • A A helmet that complies with DOT (Department of Transportation) standards
    • B A helmet only if the rider is under 18
    • C Any helmet, including a novelty helmet
    • D A Snell-certified full-face helmet with a tinted shield for daytime riding
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    A. A helmet that complies with DOT (Department of Transportation) standards

    To ride legally in Washington you must wear a DOT-compliant helmet, shown by DOT labels on the outside back and inside the helmet. Head injury is the most common cause of rider death, and a quality helmet greatly improves your survival odds.

    Source: Washington Motorcycle Operator Manual, page 16

  2. During a quick stop on a two-wheeler, how should you apply the front brake?

    • A Apply it only lightly and let the rear brake do most of the work of stopping the bike
    • B Pump it on and off rapidly
    • C Grab it as hard as possible right away
    • D Squeeze it firmly and progressively, adding force as the front suspension loads
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    D. Squeeze it firmly and progressively, adding force as the front suspension loads

    In a quick stop, squeeze the front brake firmly and progressively, with more force as the front suspension loads. Do not grab the lever, and keep your knees on the tank and eyes up to stop in a straight line.

    Source: Washington Motorcycle Operator Manual, page 35

  3. What is the most common type of motorcycle-versus-car collision at intersections?

    • A A car rear-ending a stopped motorcycle
    • B A motorcycle running a red light
    • C A car changing lanes directly into the motorcycle's side
    • D A car turning left across the motorcycle's path
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    D. A car turning left across the motorcycle's path

    Most motorcycle-car collisions happen at intersections, and the most common is a car turning left across the motorcycle's path. Approach intersections ready to brake or swerve, with a lane position that helps drivers see you.

    Source: Washington Motorcycle Operator Manual, page 57

  4. Which restrictions apply while you ride on a Washington motorcycle instruction permit?

    • A You may not ride on highways or above 45 mph
    • B You may not carry passengers or ride at night
    • C You may carry only a passenger who holds an endorsement
    • D You must ride with a licensed motorcyclist following you
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    B. You may not carry passengers or ride at night

    A Washington instruction permit bars you from carrying passengers and from riding at night. A passenger changes how the bike handles, and night riding makes it harder to see and be seen, so both wait until you are endorsed.

    Source: Washington Motorcycle Operator Manual, page 11