In North Carolina, you have to be at least 16 years old to legally drive a motorcycle, with specific requirements for obtaining a motorcycle learner permit or endorsement.
However, the state does not impose a minimum age for children riding as passengers on motorcycles.
Requirements for Motorcycle Drivers
- Age: At least 16 years old.
- Permit/Endorsement: Must have a motorcycle learner permit or a motorcycle endorsement on a provisional, regular, or commercial driver license.
- Additional Requirements for Ages 16-18: Must have signed parental consent and pass a motorcycle safety course.
Regulations for Motorcycle Passengers
- Minimum Age for Passengers: There is no minimum age requirement for motorcycle passengers in North Carolina.
- Safety Helmet: All passengers must wear a safety helmet.
- Passenger Capacity: A motorcycle cannot carry more passengers than it was designed to carry. The design of the seat and the availability of passenger footpegs are important indicators of passenger capacity.
- Car Seat Law Exemption: Children are required to be in car seats in cars, but this law does not apply to motorcycles, as motorcycles are not required by federal law to be equipped with seat belts.