HB185 Alabama 2013 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Allen Farley

Republican

Co-Sponsors

Randy WoodHoward SanderfordDan WilliamsMike BallMark TuggleJim Patterson

Session

Regular Session 2013

Title

Motor vehicles, motorcycles, Class M motorcycle license including restricted license to operate a motor-driven cycle, issuance by Public Safety Department, knowledge test required under certain conditions, Secs. 32-5A-240, 32-12-22 am'd.

Summary

HB185 would require anyone without a Class M motorcycle license or endorsement to pass a knowledge test, and it applies teen driver rules to under-18 motorcycle riders while clarifying licensing options for motorcycles and motor-driven cycles.

What This Bill Does

It requires a motorcycle knowledge test for people who, at the act’s effective date, do not have a Class M endorsement or license to obtain one. It establishes licensing options: a Class M license to operate a motorcycle for those 16 and older, and a Class M license restricted to a motor-driven cycle for those 14 and older, both contingent on passing the knowledge test if not already held. It extends certain graduated driver license restrictions to riders under 18 who operate a motorcycle or motor-driven cycle, including potential license suspensions for specified violations, and it clarifies the process for motor-driven cycle licensing.

Who It Affects

• People who do not currently hold a Class M motorcycle license or endorsement and must pass a DPS motorcycle knowledge test to obtain or display it on their license.
• Persons under age 18 operating a motorcycle or motor-driven cycle, who would be subject to graduated license restrictions, exceptions, and possible suspensions comparable to other under-18 driver rules.

Key Provisions

• Requires a motorcycle knowledge test designated by the Department of Public Safety for anyone lacking a Class M endorsement or Class M license in order to obtain or display them.
• Defines Class M licensing options: an unrestricted Class M license for those 16 and older, and a Class M license restricted to a motor-driven cycle for those 14 and older; both require the knowledge test if the person does not already have the endorsement or license.
• Applies under-18 graduated driver license provisions and suspension rules to under-18 riders operating motorcycles or motor-driven cycles under certain conditions.
• Allows a Class M license with motor-driven cycle restriction to be issued to 14+ if the applicant can pass the motorcycle knowledge test; 14+ can also operate a motor-driven cycle with appropriate licensing and competency requirements.
• Amends Sections 32-5A-240 and 32-12-22 to implement these licensing requirements and knowledge test provisions; effective immediately after governor approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Motor Vehicles