Motorcycles are symbols of freedom and, for some, rebellion.
They are also some of the smallest vehicles on the road, offering
little protection in case of an accident or collision. When it
comes to the rights and responsibilities of a motorcyclist in
Canada, most of the additional rules are based on keeping the rider
and any passengers safe on the road.
In order to operate a motorcycle, you must have a valid
motorcycle license (known as an M1, M2, or M class license). This
is separate from a G class driver's license, which as of 2008
no longer covered motorcycles and mopeds. To get a motorcycle
license, you must be at least 16 years of age and go through a
graduated license program, which takes at least 20 months. After
passing a vision test along with written tests covering rules of
the road, road signs, and motorcycle knowledge, you can receive
your M1 license and are eligible for a road test. Once you have
passed the level 1 road test, you will receive your M2