HB63 Alabama 2020 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Chris PringleRepresentative

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2020

Title

Motor vehicles, motorcycle license, requirements, further provided, Secs. 32-5A-240, 32-12-22 am'd.

Summary

HB63 would require all new Class M motorcycle license applicants to pass a written knowledge test and complete a motorcycle rider course, with an exemption for those already authorized to operate a motorcycle before January 1, 2021.

What This Bill Does

The bill amends the motorcycle licensing rules to require a written motorcycle knowledge test and completion of a motorcycle rider course (such as Basic Riders Course I/II or an approved equivalent) to obtain a Class M license. It specifies that the rider course must be completed or an approved equivalent course used to qualify for the license, and it keeps existing license display and general rider duties. It provides a grandfathering exemption for people who were authorized to operate a motorcycle before January 1, 2021, and sets certain age-related conditions for motor-driven cycle restrictions and minors, with the new requirements taking effect January 1, 2021.

Who It Affects

• New applicants seeking a Class M motorcycle license after January 1, 2021 who must pass the knowledge test and complete a rider course.
• Individuals applying for a Class M license with a motor-driven cycle restriction (14 years and older may qualify via knowledge test or rider course; 17 years or younger remain subject to hours and suspensions).
• People who already had authorization to operate a motorcycle before January 1, 2021, who are not required to follow the new requirements.

Key Provisions

• Amends Code Sections 32-5A-240 and 32-12-22 to add requirements for operating a motorcycle, including passing a written knowledge test and completing a motorcycle rider course or an approved equivalent.
• Authorizes the use of Basic Riders Course I/II or substantially equivalent courses approved by the Alabama State Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) as the rider course option, and requires the course to be completed to obtain a Class M license.
• Provides an exemption for persons who were authorized to operate a motorcycle before January 1, 2021.
• Specifies rules for Class M licenses with motor-driven cycle restrictions (14+ may obtain with knowledge test or rider course; 17 or younger subject to existing hours and suspension provisions).
• Effective date: January 1, 2021.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 22, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Motor Vehicles