California Motorcycle Safety

On the California driving test, motorcycle safety questions are part of the 46-question exam. California requires a score of 83% (38 correct answers) to pass.

Motorcycle safety is fundamentally different from car safety because riders are exposed, with no protective cage, seat belts, or airbags. Motorcyclists are 29 times more likely than car occupants to die in a crash per mile traveled.

Proper protective gear is your first line of defense: a DOT-approved helmet (which reduces the risk of death by 37%), eye protection, sturdy jacket and pants, over-the-ankle boots, and full-fingered gloves. Many states require helmets by law, and all states should — regardless of law, always wear one.

This category also covers pre-ride safety checks (T-CLOCS: Tires, Controls, Lights, Oil, Chassis, Stands), the importance of being visible to other drivers, and situational awareness techniques that can save your life on two wheels.