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Riding motorcycles is a popular pastime in Washington. With the beautiful scenery and weather, it seems like there’s never a bad time to get out on your bike. Before you take off on your next ride, though, it’s important to know the laws.
The laws have changed quite a bit over the years, and riders are expected to stay on top of the updates. Find out everything you need to know about the laws, starting with the motorcycle license requirements.
Washington Motorcycle License Requirements
If you want to ride your motorcycle in Washington, you need to obtain a 2W motorcycle permit, and then, if your ride can go above 30 mph, you need a 2W endorsement as well. First, to get your permit to learn, you have to be at least 16 years old. Then, if you’re a minor, you need to pass a 2W motorcycle safety course and have your parents sign a consent form.
Regardless of age, you’ll need to have a valid driver’s license and take and pass the 2W permit motorcycle operation and riding skills test. Make sure you choose a state-approved motorcycle training school to take your test.
Give the school three days to submit your test scores to the Washington Department of Licensing. Then, you can apply for a 2W motorcycle instruction permit online within 180 days of passing the test. The permit lasts for 180 days, and you can renew it once.
After getting your permit, you’ll be ready to get your 2W motorcycle endorsement. This involves another test: the 2W endorsement motorcycle operation knowledge and riding skills test. Then, between three and 180 days after the test has been submitted, you can apply for your endorsement online.
Don’t make the mistake of driving your motorcycle without the proper endorsement. If caught, you face up to a $136 penalty. Also, the state can tack on an extra $250, so this is an expensive mistake.
Once you have your endorsement, you need to make sure your motorcycle is properly equipped.
Washington Motorcycle Equipment Requirement
The state government also has motorcycle equipment laws in place. These laws are designed to keep people safe on the road.
You need to have:
· Goggles, face shield, safety glasses, or a windshield on your motorcycle
· Side mirrors
· Horn
· Muffler
· Head and tail lights
· Red rear reflectors
Also, your handlebars can only be up to 30 inches above your seat. If they are higher, you can get ticketed.
Now, let’s look at the registration process for motorcycles in Washington.
Washington Motorcycle Registration Process
Before hitting the road with your new bike, you have to register it with the Department of Licensing. This is simple if you buy your motorcycle from a dealer. The dealer will take care of the registration requirements, and then you’ll receive your license plates in the mail. Still, ask the dealer if there’s anything you need to do before hitting the road.
The process is different if you secure your bike from a private seller. Once you buy it, you’ll have 15 days to register and title it. After that, you can visit a Department of Licensing vehicle licensing office or mail the documents to register and title the bike.
You’ll need to submit a:
· Vehicle title application that you sign in front of a notary or a vehicle licensing agent
· Signed-over title
· Vehicle/vessel bill of sale
· Registration taxes and fees
Also, you have to submit an odometer disclosure statement if your vehicle is less than ten years old.
Getting your motorcycle registered is an exciting milestone. You’ll almost be ready to ride, but first, make sure you know all the laws.
Washington Motorcycle Laws for the Road
When you’re on your motorcycle, you’ll need to follow the rules of the road. Most of the rules are the same as when you’re driving a car. However, there are some rules designed specifically for motorcycles. Let’s start with the rule regarding lane splitting.
Lane Splitting
Lane splitting is against the law in Washington. That means you cannot drive between the lanes. If you do, you can get ticketed.
Lane Sharing
While lane splitting is against the law, lane sharing is legal. You’re allowed to share the lane with another motorcycle if you want.
Helmet Laws
You have to wear a US Department of Transportation-approved helmet when on a motorcycle in Washington. Along with protecting you in an accident, this can help you if you have to make an insurance claim.
Carrying Passengers
Your passengers must be at least five years old and have their own:
· Seat
· Footboard or pegs
Also, each person must wear a helmet.
Red Lights
Washington has a unique red light law that only applies to motorcyclists. Some motorcycles are too light to trigger the system, so you could be stuck waiting for ages. Thus, when you pull up to a red light, you only have to wait for one cycle. Then, if the intersection is clear, you can proceed, even if the light isn’t green.
You also need to know the laws against racing.
Laws Against Racing Motorcycles in Washington
Racing motorcycles is strictly forbidden in Washington. If you’re caught, you can be charged with a gross misdemeanor. While it might be just a misdemeanor, the penalties are stiff. They include:
· Up to $5,000 in fines
· Up to one year in jail
· Mandatory license suspension
Once your license is reinstated, you’ll have to file form SR-22 with the state. This form will show that you have the appropriate auto insurance liability coverage, and you’ll have to keep it for three years. Any time you have to add an SR-22, you can expect high insurance rates. Because of that, you can end up paying for your mistake for years.
Sticking with the topic of insurance, let’s go over the insurance requirements for motorcycles in the state.
Washington Motorcycle Insurance Requirements
Before July 28, 2019, motorcyclists didn’t have to follow Washington’s mandatory liability insurance law. That has changed, though, so now, you must meet the minimum requirements to drive.
State law mandates that you carry a minimum:
· $25,000 to cover injuries or death to one other person
· $50,000 to cover injuries or death to two or more people
· $10,000 for property damage
Keep in mind that these are the bare minimums, and you could end up getting sued if you’re responsible for an accident that causes serious injuries or significant property damage.
Once you purchase coverage, keep your insurance card with you when driving. If you’re stopped, the police officer will ask to see proof of insurance. If you don’t provide it, you will get a ticket.
Your insurance is one of the many things you need to have when riding your motorcycle. Next, go over some other must-have items.
Items That Every Washington Motorcycle Rider Should Have
Along with a helmet and proof of insurance, there are some additional items you should have with you at all times on your motorcycle.
Water
You’re exposed to the elements when you’re riding your bike, so bring water with you. With proper hydration, you’ll be alert, awake, and ready to navigate obstacles. If you plan to take a long drive, bring more than one bottle of water on the trip.
Emergency Lights
You need to bring emergency lights with you to use if you’re in an accident. The lights will ensure that others see you so they don’t collide with you or your motorcycle. Plus, it will be easier for first responders to find you.
Tire Plug Kit
If your tires get a hole in them, you’ll be stuck on the side of the road. Bring a tire plug kit with you so you can fix any problems and get back to your adventure. Also, make sure you have a small pump or CO2 tire inflation system to air the tires back up after patching them.
Tools
You don’t want a minor problem to derail your entire trip. Be sure to bring some basic tools along on your ride. Then, you can perform a routine fix if needed without having to stop by a repair shop.
Extra Gloves
Driving without gloves can be a painful experience. Unfortunately, gloves can wear down at any time, so it’s a good idea to have an extra pair handy. Choose a pair that’s designed for the season so you’ll have the ultimate in protection and comfort.
Earplugs
As much as you love the roar of the motorcycle, excess noise can damage your ears. Always bring earplugs with you when you ride. Also, throw in an extra pair in case you lose one on the road.
Bungee Cords
When you take off on your bike, you might not know where the day will take you. There’s so much freedom with riding that you could end up across the state or at a store. Make sure you’re ready for whatever the day brings by keeping bungee cords on hand. Then, you can secure everything you buy during your trek around Washington.
Travel Bag
You only have so much room to store items on your motorcycle. Instead of leaving necessities behind, bring a travel bag or backpack. Then, you’ll have ample room for everything you need for a fun and safe trip.
First Aid Kit
It’s always a good idea to be prepared in case you get injured on your bike. With that in mind, pack a first aid kit so you can patch yourself up if needed. It doesn’t have to be a big kit but should have band-aids, antiseptic, and other items that can help you in a pinch.
After you gather all your items, you’ll probably spend lots of time on the road. Unfortunately, you could get a ticket during your travels. Find out what steps you should take if you get ticketed below.
What to Do if You Get a Ticket on Your Motorcycle?
If you get a ticket when riding your motorcycle, you can expect fines and a possible license suspension if you’ve had several violations within the last year. Also, your insurance rates will go up quite a bit after a ticket.
However, you can fight the ticket in court to avoid these penalties. If the ticketing officer doesn’t appear, the judge will likely drop the charges. On the other hand, if the officer shows up, you can provide evidence that proves you are not guilty.
If the judge rules in your favor, the ticket will be wiped off your record. As a result, you won’t have to pay fines, and you won’t have to worry about increased insurance rates or a possible license suspension.
You have three choices for fighting a ticket in court. First, you can go about it yourself. While you might luck out if the officer doesn’t appear, you’ll have a hard time proving your case if he or she does. Courts expect specific evidence based on state law. Without a legal background, that’s very hard to provide.
Second, you can hire a local lawyer to fight the ticket for you. While your chance for success will increase, your bank account’s number will decrease. Attorneys typically charge top dollar for their services.
Third, you can use WinIt to fight your ticket. This is the best option since it allows you to retain a licensed attorney without paying expensive legal fees. You can choose the attorney to represent you, and you won’t pay a dime unless the lawyer wins in court. If the attorney is successful, you’ll only pay half of what the fine would have been.
The process is straightforward. You just need to:
· Submit a picture of the ticket
· Upload the evidence
· Choose an attorney
Then, the lawyer will handle the case for you, keeping you updated along the way.
The lawyers on this site fight both parking and traffic tickets. Plus, they represent clients with off-road and on-road motorcycles.
Stay Safe and Legal on the Road
Now that you know the rules of the road, you’re ready to take the next steps. Make sure you meet the licensing and registration requirements, and your bike is road-ready. Then, take off on your next adventure.
