PennDOT Form DL-5: PA Motorcycle Learner’s Permit Guide

PennDOT Form DL-5: PA Motorcycle Learner’s Permit Guide – If you are a Pennsylvania resident looking to obtain, reapply for, duplicate, change, or correct a Class M motorcycle learner’s permit, you will need PennDOT Form DL-5. This official application is required by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) for anyone seeking a Motorcycle Learner’s Permit. Whether you already hold a Class C driver’s license or are applying for your first motorcycle privileges, understanding Form DL-5 is essential.

This comprehensive guide covers everything U.S. residents in Pennsylvania need to know about the DL-5 form, including eligibility, fees, required documents, restrictions, and the full application process. Always refer to official PennDOT sources for the most current information, as fees and procedures can change.

What Is PennDOT Form DL-5?

Form DL-5 is the official “Motorcycle Learner’s Permit Application to Add/Reapply/Duplicate/Change/Correct.” It is used exclusively for Class M (motorcycle) learner’s permits in Pennsylvania. You cannot use the standard non-commercial learner’s permit form (DL-180 or DL-31) for motorcycle privileges.

The form allows you to:

  • Add a motorcycle learner’s permit for the first time
  • Reapply after expiration or after failing the skills test three times
  • Request a duplicate (replacement) if your permit is lost, stolen, or damaged
  • Make changes or corrections to existing permit information (such as address, name, or eye color)

Download the official current version of Form DL-5 directly from PennDOT: Download PennDOT Form DL-5 (PDF).

Who Needs to Complete Form DL-5?

You must complete Form DL-5 if you want to:

  • Obtain a Class M motorcycle learner’s permit for the first time
  • Add motorcycle privileges to an existing Pennsylvania driver’s license
  • Reapply after your previous motorcycle permit has expired
  • Replace a lost, stolen, or damaged motorcycle learner’s permit
  • Correct information or change your address/name on a current motorcycle permit

Note that a motorcycle learner’s permit is not renewable. Once it expires, you must reapply using Form DL-5 and retake the knowledge test (in most cases).

Current Fees for Form DL-5 Transactions

According to official PennDOT fee schedules, the fee for adding, extending, or replacing a motorcycle learner’s permit is $12.00. Optional contributions may also be made:

  • $3.00 voluntary contribution to the Organ Donation Awareness Trust Fund
  • $5.00 voluntary contribution to the Veterans’ Trust Fund

PennDOT Driver License Centers do not accept cash. Accepted payment methods include debit/credit cards, checks, or money orders payable to “PennDOT.” Always verify the latest fees on the official PennDOT Payments and Fees page.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply Using Form DL-5

Follow these official steps to apply for or manage your Pennsylvania motorcycle learner’s permit:

  1. Download and complete Form DL-5 – Fill out all required sections. Applicants under 18 must have a parent, guardian, person in loco parentis, or spouse (age 18+) complete and sign Section E. Notarization is required for applicants under 18.
  2. Study the Motorcycle Operator’s Manual – Obtain the free Pennsylvania Motorcycle Operator’s Manual (PUB 147).
  3. Visit a PennDOT Driver License Center in person – You must appear in person. Find a location using the PennDOT Driver License Center locator.
  4. Take the vision screening and motorcycle knowledge test – These are administered at the Driver License Center. Upon passing, your permit will be issued.
  5. Pay the required fee – Submit the $12 fee (plus any voluntary contributions).

Important: You cannot mail Form DL-5 for a new or reapplication permit. In-person processing is mandatory for issuance.

Key Restrictions on a Pennsylvania Motorcycle Learner’s Permit

Once issued, your Class M learner’s permit comes with specific legal restrictions under Pennsylvania Vehicle Code:

  • Valid for one year from the date of issue
  • Riding is permitted only between sunrise and sunset (no nighttime operation)
  • If you do not hold another class of license, you may only operate a motorcycle under the immediate supervision of a licensed Class M operator
  • You may not carry any passengers except a properly licensed motorcycle instructor
  • Helmet use is required for all learner’s permit holders

These restrictions are designed to promote safe skill development.

Special Requirements for Applicants Under Age 18

Teen riders face additional requirements:

  • A parent or guardian must be present at the Driver License Center and complete the consent section of Form DL-5
  • You must hold the learner’s permit for at least six months
  • You must complete 65 hours of supervised riding experience
  • You must successfully complete a Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program (PAMSP) Basic Rider Course (BRC) before taking the skills test or receiving a full Class M license. The BRC counts as 15 of the required 65 hours

For more details, visit the official Get a Motorcycle License (Under 18) page.

Reapplying, Duplicates, and Changes

  • Reapplying after expiration: You must wait until the current permit expires. Complete a new DL-5, pay the fee, and pass the vision screening and knowledge test again. You may reapply no more than three times within a five-year period (maximum of four permits total in five years).
  • Duplicate (replacement): If your permit is lost or damaged but has not expired, you can obtain a replacement without retaking the knowledge test. The expiration date remains the same as the original.
  • Changes or corrections: Address changes, name changes, or corrections can be processed with Form DL-5. Name changes require original supporting documents (marriage certificate, court order, etc.) and must be done in person. No fee is required for pure change/correction updates in some cases—confirm at the center.

After Receiving Your Motorcycle Learner’s Permit

Once you have your permit, you have two main paths to a full Class M license:

  1. Schedule and pass the motorcycle skills test at a PennDOT Driver License Center, or
  2. Enroll in and successfully complete a Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program (PAMSP) course. Completing the Basic Rider Course or Intermediate Rider Course waives the skills test requirement and results in issuance of the full Class M license.

Learn more about free or low-cost training options on the Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program page.

Official Resources and Contact Information

Always use official PennDOT sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information:

By following the official process and using Form DL-5 correctly, Pennsylvania riders can safely begin their journey toward earning a Class M motorcycle license. Ride responsibly and always prioritize safety training.

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