
No, Nevada generally does not distinguish between different types of motorcycle licenses. A Class M license allows drivers to operate any two-wheeled motorcycle or three-wheeled vehicle. Mopeds and other low-speed, two-wheeled vehicles do not require a motorcycle license in Nevada.
Before you decide to purchase or ride a motorcycle, read on to learn all the details about the motorcycle licensing requirements in Nevada.
Types of Motorcycle Licenses in Nevada
Nevada does not have different types of motorcycle licenses like many states. Some states add specific endorsements onto your regular driver’s license to signify the types of motorcycles that you can operate. Instead, Nevada simply uses a Class M license. Both your standard driver’s license and the Class M license are listed on a single license.
Although there are no different types of motorcycle licenses, drivers under 18 must start with a special type of permit. Instead of getting a full Class M license, riders under 18 must first obtain their motorcycle instruction permit. They must hold this permit for at least 6 months and meet additional requirements before applying for the full Class M license.
How Do I Get a Motorcycle License in Nevada?
Getting a motorcycle license in Nevada requires meeting certain requirements and passing some tests.
That process is as follows:
Riders Age 18 and Over
Riders aged 18 and over can choose whether or not they wish to obtain a motorcycle instruction permit. These individuals may avoid the permit requirement by completing a motorcycle safety course from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF). If you choose to take the MSF course, you can also avoid taking the knowledge and skills test at the DMV.
Riders Under 18
Riders under 18 must first obtain their motorcycle instruction permit. This allows these riders additional time to hone their skills under supervision from an experienced rider over 21.
The requirements for riders under 18 who wish to get their Class M license are:
- Hold a motorcycle instruction permit for six months
- Complete 50 hours of supervised experience on a motorcycle and document it on a DMV log
- Complete motorcycle safety course
Upon successful completion of the above criteria, you may apply for your Class M license. A small fee will apply, and your new license will be mailed to your address.
Do I Need a Motorcycle License to Drive a Moped in Nevada?
No, you do not need a motorcycle license to operate a moped in Nevada.
To qualify as a moped, the vehicle must:
- Have an engine that produces no more than 2 brake horsepower
- Have an engine with a displacement of no more than 50cc
- Have no more than three wheels and not be a tractor
- Be capable of a maximum speed of not more than 30 miles per hour
Although a motorcycle license is not required to operate a moped, you still need a regular driver’s license to operate a moped on the road.
What Should I Do If I’m Involved in a Motorcycle Accident?
Even with the right license and all the proper training, motorcycle accident cases still happen. Many motorcycle accidents are caused by the negligence of other vehicle drivers. Motorcycle accidents often result in devastating injuries, so you could be entitled to significant compensation if you are hurt due to someone else’s carelessness.
It is important to know what to do after an accident to protect your legal rights and preserve your ability to recover compensation.
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, you should:
- Call the police so they can respond to the scene and create an accident report.
- Seek immediate medical treatment for any injuries, even if your injuries do not feel severe.
- Gather as much evidence as you can, such as photos of all the vehicles and names and contact information of any witnesses.
- Notify your insurance company of the accident.
- Get help from an experienced personal injury lawyer.
These steps can protect your health and preserve key evidence for an insurance claim.
Contact the Las Vegas Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at De Castroverde Law Group for Help Today
Your time to file a claim after a motorcycle accident is limited, so don’t wait to get the help you deserve. The team at De Castroverde Law Group can investigate your crash and help you hold the responsible party accountable.
If you’ve been injured in Las Vegas, NV, or the surrounding Nevada area and need legal help, contact our Las Vegas motorcycle accident attorneys at De Castroverde Law Group to schedule a free case evaluation today.
We have three locations in Nevada for your convenience, including Las Vegas, Summerlin, and Henderson. We’re proud to serve Clark County and the surrounding areas.
De Castroverde Law Group – Las Vegas Office
1149 S Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV 89104
(702) 222-9999
De Castroverde Law Group – Summerlin Office
410 S Rampart Blvd, Ste 480 Las Vegas, NV 89145
(702) 964-1806
De Castroverde Law Group – Henderson Office
9555 S Eastern Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89123
(702) 800-3455
About the Author

Alex De Castroverde earned his law degree from Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law and is licensed to practice in Nevada. He is a dedicated trial lawyer who assists clients across Las Vegas in a wide range of legal matters, with a focus on personal injury. Alex has successfully represented clients in cases involving car accidents, catastrophic injuries, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents and more. Click here to learn more about the outstanding case results Alex has achieved for his clients.