Riding a motorcycle in Georgia offers freedom and excitement, but it also comes with legal responsibilities. Whether you’re an experienced rider or new to the road, understanding the state’s motorcycle laws can help you stay safe and compliant. Georgia has specific regulations regarding helmets, licensing, insurance, and lane usage, all designed to protect motorcyclists and others on the road.
This blog explains the key Georgia motorcycle laws, including safety requirements, licensing rules, and how to handle accidents if they happen.
Helmet and Protective Gear Requirements
Georgia has strict helmet laws designed to protect riders. According to O.C.G.A. § 40-6-315, all motorcycle operators and passengers must wear protective headgear that meets safety standards set by the Commissioner of Public Safety. While the law does not explicitly require helmets to be U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) certified, the Commissioner has adopted regulations that align with DOT standards. This means that, in practice, riders must wear a DOT-approved helmet to comply with Georgia law.
Additionally, riders must wear eye protection if their motorcycle does not have a windshield. The law requires that the eye-protective device meet the standards approved by the Commissioner of Public Safety. Standard sunglasses may not meet these requirements unless they provide adequate protection against debris and wind.
Failing to comply with these helmet and protective gear regulations can result in fines and penalties, as well as increased risk of serious injury in the event of an accident.
Motorcycle Licensing and Endorsements
To legally operate a motorcycle in Georgia, you must have the proper license endorsement. The state requires all riders to obtain a Class M license or a Class MP (motorcycle permit) if they are still learning.
How to Get a Motorcycle License in Georgia
- For a Class MP (Motorcycle Permit):
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- Must be at least 16 years old.
- Must pass a vision exam and the Georgia DDS motorcycle knowledge exam.
- If under 18 years old, must comply with Joshua’s Law, which includes completing a DDS-certified driver education course.
- Must provide a Certificate of School Enrollment (Form DS-1) if under 18.
- For a Class M (Motorcycle License):
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- Must be at least 17 years old.
- Must pass a vision exam and the Georgia DDS motorcycle knowledge exam.
- Must complete either:
- A Georgia Motorcycle Safety Program (GMSP) Basic Rider Course, which waives the road skills test upon successful completion.
- The DDS motorcycle road skills test at a DDS Customer Service Center.
- Pay the required fees to have the Class M endorsement added to the license.
A Class MP permit is not required before applying for a Class M license, but it allows riders to gain experience before taking the road skills test. Holding a valid Class MP also enables riders to schedule a road test appointment.
For more details, visit the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS).
Motorcycle Insurance Requirements
Georgia requires all motorcyclists to carry minimum liability insurance coverage. The required minimums are:
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person
- $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 for property damage per accident
Failure to carry insurance can result in fines, license suspension, and difficulty recovering damages if you are involved in a crash. Optional coverage, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist protection, can provide additional financial security in case of an accident with a driver who lacks sufficient insurance.
Lane Splitting and Lane Sharing
Many riders wonder if they can legally weave between lanes or share a lane with another motorcycle. Lane splitting—riding between lanes of traffic—is illegal in Georgia under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-312. If a motorcyclist is caught lane splitting, they may face a fine and points on their license.
However, lane sharing is permitted under Georgia law. Two motorcyclists can ride side by side in the same lane, but no more than two motorcycles can share a lane at once.
Motorcycle Equipment Requirements
To be legally operated on Georgia roads, motorcycles must meet specific equipment requirements. According to O.C.G.A. § 40-6-311, all motorcycles must have:
- A functional headlight and taillight (must be illuminated at all times, even during the day)
- At least one side mirror providing a clear view behind the rider
- A working horn and properly functioning brakes
- Turn signals if manufactured with them (older models may not be required to have them)
Failing to comply with these requirements can result in fines and citations.
DUI Laws for Motorcyclists
Georgia’s Driving Under the Influence (DUI) laws apply equally to motorcyclists. Under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-391, you are legally impaired if:
- Your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher
- You are under the influence of drugs or alcohol to the extent that you cannot operate a motorcycle safely
A first-time DUI offense in Georgia can result in:
- Fines between $300 and $1,000
- A license suspension of up to one year
- Mandatory DUI education programs
- Possible jail time
Penalties increase for multiple offenses, and a DUI conviction can also lead to higher insurance rates or difficulty obtaining future coverage.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Georgia
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident in Georgia, taking the right steps can protect your health and your legal rights.
- Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance if needed.
- Document the scene – Take photos of vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and any traffic signals or signs.
- Exchange information – Get the other driver’s insurance details, name, and contact information.
- Seek medical care – Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Request a copy of the police report – This can provide essential details if you need to file an insurance claim or take legal action.
Motorcyclists often face bias from insurance companies, so documenting the scene thoroughly can help if you need to dispute a claim or prove liability.
Georgia has strict motorcycle laws designed to protect riders and others on the road. Whether it’s wearing a DOT-approved helmet, securing the right insurance coverage, or avoiding lane splitting, following these regulations can keep you safe and compliant with state law.
If you are ever involved in a motorcycle accident or have legal concerns about your rights as a rider, knowing Georgia’s laws can help you protect yourself and your future.
Get the Legal Support You Need After a Motorcycle Accident
A motorcycle accident can turn your life upside down in an instant. Between serious injuries, medical bills, and insurance battles, the road to recovery isn’t always straightforward. Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim, shift blame, or delay payouts—leaving you struggling to get the compensation you need.
At Greathouse Trial Law, we fight for injured riders across Georgia. As dedicated motorcycle accident lawyers, we understand the unique challenges motorcyclists face after a crash. Our team gathers critical evidence, pushes back against unfair insurance tactics, and works tirelessly to hold negligent drivers accountable.
If you’ve been searching for “motorcycle accident attorneys near me” or need a trusted Atlanta injury attorney, we’re here to help. Call Greathouse Trial Law at (678) 310-2827 or fill out our confidential online form to schedule your FREE consultation today. Let’s take the next steps toward your recovery together.
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The information in this blog post (“post”) is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No information in this post should be construed as legal advice from the individual author or the law firm, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting based on any information included in or accessible through this post without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from a lawyer licensed in the recipient’s state, country, or other appropriate licensing jurisdiction.
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