Honda Grom is a pocket-sized dynamo that has taken the riding community by storm. You’ll get a smooth ride with this 125cc smooth engine. But you must know about its license requirement before you grab your helmet and hit the streets.
So, do you need a motorcycle license for a Honda Grom? Yes, you do. Despite its small size and engine, the Honda Grom is classified as a motorcycle. Therefore, you’ll need a valid motorcycle license to ride it on public roads legally.
However, there could be other requirements to drive a Honda Grom. Keep reading to find all the essential information you need.
Do You Need a Motorcycle License For a Honda Grom?
Yes, you’ll need a motorcycle license, registration, and insurance in most states for a Honda Grom. Motorcycles over 50cc typically require a specific motorcycle license because they’re considered larger and more powerful vehicles.
There are certain exemptions in some states for scooters and mopeds that have engines under 50cc.
If the vehicle meets safety requirements, such as having headlights, turn signals, and brake lights, it may not need to be registered. The riders are allowed to operate them with just a regular car driver’s license.
However, the Honda Grom has a 125cc engine; it falls into the category of motorcycles that require a license. Even you can’t drive your Honda Grom with a regular car driver’s license.
You have to have an M1 motorcycle license. An M1 motorcycle license is a specific type of license. It permits individuals to operate motorcycles or motorized scooters with 125cc or more.
However, rules and regulations may vary depending on the state you live in. Here are some examples:
| Name of States | Rules & Regulation |
| California | DMV registration or motorcycle license is required |
| New York | License required |
| Illinois | No license required |
| Texas | A regular driving license is enough but you’ve to register your motorcycle |
| Maryland | Don’t require an M1 class license |
| Alabama | Class M license required |
| Florida | Need a regular driving license or ‘Motorcycle Only’ license |
| West Virginia | Not mentioned or specifically prohibited |
| Hawaii | Class 2 license required |
| Georgia | License and insurance are both required |
| Mississippi | Not mentioned or specifically prohibited |
| New Mexico | License required |
What Type of License Do You Need for a Honda Grom?
You generally need a valid motorcycle license or endorsement, along with proper registration and insurance. The specific type of license required can vary depending on your location and local laws.
In the United States, for example, you would typically need a motorcycle endorsement on your regular driver’s license. This endorsement is obtained by passing a motorcycle knowledge test and a skills test.
Is the Honda Grom Street Legal?
Absolutely, the Honda Grom is indeed street-legal. The engine capacity of the Honda Grom is 125cc, and the max output is up to 11kw. This category falls under the M1 class, allowing it to drive on public roads without any issues.
But driving a Honda on the street is illegal in one circumstance. And that’s your age if you are under 17 years old, you can’t ride a motorbike on the street.
Is It Necessary to Have a Motorcycle License to Buy a Honda Grom?
No, it’s not necessary to have a motorcycle license to buy a Honda Grom or any other motorbike. Owning a motorcycle does not require a license. Purchasing a motorcycle is separate from obtaining legal permission to operate it on public roads.
However, without a license, you’ll face some challenges. For example, you can’t perform a test drive. Even you need to hire a pickup to carry it to your home, as driving without a license is illegal.
Consequences of Riding a Honda Grom Without a License
Using a Honda Grom or any motor vehicle without a valid license can lead to various serious consequences. Here are some potential consequences:
Legal Penalties
Driving without a license is considered a traffic offense in all American States. The individual may face fines or even potential jail time. It depends on local laws and the severity of the offense.
For example, in Florida, the punishment will be 60 days in jail or a $500 fine. And in Texas, the fine will be $195.
Vehicle Impoundment
Law enforcement impounds the motorcycle if they catch an unlicensed driver. Recovering the vehicle from impound can be costly and time-consuming.
Legal Liability
In case of an accident, you could be held legally responsible for any damages or injuries. Without a valid license, insurance companies may refuse to cover you. They leave you personally liable for medical expenses, property damage, and legal costs.
Revocation or Suspension of Driving Privileges
Riding without a license can result in the revocation or suspension of driving privileges. This could lead to further difficulties in obtaining a valid driver’s license in the future.
Increased Insurance Costs
It can also affect the rider’s insurance premiums. Insurance companies view unlicensed riders as higher-risk individuals, and therefore, they may increase insurance rates.
How to Obtain a Driving License for a Honda Grom Motorbike?
The process of obtaining a driving license for a Honda Grom motorbike will vary depending on the state you live in. Here we’ll provide a general outline of the steps involved:
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Ensure you meet the minimum age requirements and any other prerequisites to apply for a motorcycle license. In many places, you must be at least 16 years old to obtain a motorcycle license or endorsement.
Step 2: Prepare for the Motorcycle Permit Test
To get a license for your motorcycle you need a little study. Study the New York State Motorcycle Safety Program Manual. Most of the questions will come from here.
Step 3: Participate in the Permit Test
You can participate in the test online or at the DMV office.
Online Test Methods: –
- First step is to visit their official website
- Give your information
- Upload a scanned copy of the required document and photo
- Review your application and confirm
- After confirmation you’ll get a permit test link via email
- You’ve to start your test within 15 minutes of getting the mail
- To successfully pass the exam
80% marks overall questions, and
50% marks related to road signs
60%marks related to motorbike questions
- If you’ve passed the exam, you’ll get a reservation email.
- You’ll get a temporary license after showing the hard copy of the uploaded document and paying the permit fee
- Within 14 days, you’ll get your permanent license
At the DMV office: –
You can give your test directly at the DMV office. But you have to show your application, birth certificate and residence.
After that they’ll take the test. The question contains 20 multiple-choice questions. To pass the exam you’ve to obtain at least 14 marks.
Step 4: Practical Riding Test
After passing the written knowledge test, you may need to take a practical riding test. During this test, you’ll demonstrate your ability to handle the Honda Grom safely on the road.
Step 5: Obtain the License/Endorsement
Once you pass both the written knowledge test and the practical riding test, you will receive your motorcycle license or endorsement.
FAQs
Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions to help you better understand the license requirements for Honda Grom.
CAN I RIDE A HONDA GROM WITH A LEARNER’S PERMIT?
No, you cannot ride a Honda Grom with a learner’s permit. You’ll need a full motorcycle license to legally ride the Honda Grom on public roads. A learner’s permit typically allows you to operate a motorbike with certain restrictions. For example, being accompanied by a licensed adult or trainer.
IS A SCOOTER LICENSE ENOUGH FOR A HONDA GROM?
No, a scooter license is not enough for a Honda Grom. The Honda Grom typically has an engine displacement of 125cc, which is above the limit for scooter licenses in many regions.
Conclusion
To sum up, do you need a motorcycle license for a Honda Grom? Yes, you do. The Honda Grom is a small and approachable motorcycle, often considered a “mini-bike,” but it’s still classified as a motorcycle.
It falls under the motorcycle category due to its engine displacement, which is usually around 125cc. So, you need a motorcycle license to operate a Honda Grom legally. However, exceptions may happen depending on the state you live in. But in most states, the rule is the same. So, before you hit the road on your Honda Grom, ensure you’ve taken the necessary steps to obtain the license.