Motorcycle Knowledge Test - Top Exam Preparation Tips

Zooming through streets on your motorbike in beautiful sunny weather is one of the most fantastic ways to get around. Not only is it fast, but it gives your muscles a workout and lets you enjoy the beautiful scenery while at it.

But to ride a motorcycle, you need an M Class license, which means you have to take some tests. In Ontario, this usually requires success in Motorcycle Knowledge Test, after which you’ve got to take a Motorcycle Skills Test and then take a Class 6 and or 8 Road Test for a full motorcycle license.

About the Motorcycle Knowledge Test

The motorcycle Knowledge test is a written test. It’s also called an M1 test and usually comprises 40 multiple choice questions covering practical riding tips and the road rules. The test is available in English, Russian, Farsi, French, Mandarin, etc.

The test is usually taken via a touchscreen kiosk at the office in charge of driving licenses. It’s just a 30-minutes test but feel free to take as long as you want to get it right. If you don’t get it right, you can always take it again after a week. Here we talk about preparation for the written motorcycle driving test, background to the test, and what next after acing the test.

Background to the M1 Test

Ontario motorists must possess an M Class license. It can be M1 or M2 for riders of full-speed motorbikes. It can also be M with condition L for riders of limited speed motorbikes, including moped and motorized scooters. Furthermore, the license can be M with condition M for riders of three-wheeled motorcycles.

To apply for the M Class license, one must meet the following qualifications.

•  They must be at least 16 years of age.
• Canadian citizens must possess a passport, Ontario Photo Card, Canadian Citizenship Card with accompanying photo, or Secure Certificate of Indian Card Status.
• Permanent citizens must show the record of landing, Ontario Photo Card, Permanent resident card, or just a confirmation of the status.
• Temporary residents will need a study permit, work permit, temporary resident permit, or refugee status claim.

Getting Ready for the Ontario Motorcycle License

Like any other test, preparation matters. In most cases, the test is harder than one expects. Even experienced drivers become nervous sometimes when it comes to the M1 test. Indeed, statistics show that 50% of Canadians flop their driving knowledge test in their first attempt. It’s a wise idea to acquaint oneself with the relevant info before sitting down for the test.

1.   Pick a motorcycle driver’s handbook from your local DMV office and familiarize yourself with Canadian traffic laws.

Don’t arrive at the exam office like the kid whose dog ate their homework. You can put your mind at ease by going through the information in your local driving handbooks beforehand. Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws, road signs, and what to do if you encounter one. That way, you’ll have an idea of what the exam is going to look like.

Take notes while you study, and highlight areas you think may require extra focus. The local driving handbook might be large, but don’t despair. Once you get the hang of it, you can browse through like a breeze. You can also find a version of the handbook online.

2.   Take a practice run

Nothing informs on progress other than taking a practice test. Try out the ICanDrive.ca practice tests to gauge your knowledge of concepts. The tests usually involve questions on road rules and signs. The areas that you perform poorly are the ones you need to practice more.

3.   Study

There’s nothing like over-preparing for a test. After all, if you flop it the first time, you will have to pay to take it again, and that is an expense. So put in the effort and grasp the concepts. Focus on areas you find difficult, as reflected by the test run in step 2.

4.   Re-take practice tests to see if you improved

Re-take the practice test to see your progress. This will inform you of any last-minute items you need to commit to memory. It will also give you confidence, so you don’t tense during exam day.

5.   Relax

Most people get nervous when it comes to taking tests. There’s no need to pretend you aren’t. Instead, do things to help you relax and focus:

• Get good sleep, minimum 8 hours of sleep the night before the exam
• Eat proper breakfast
• Arrive early
• Stretch, take deep breaths or have a walk just before sitting for the test

Furthermore, carry all the required documents. The last thing you want is your mind going on a frenzy, thinking if you really put your ID in the bag or forgot it on the table back at home.

6.   Read all questions carefully and if you are not sure, pick the best answer.

The test is 30-minute long, but you can take longer. The last thing you want is missing a question or putting the wrong answer because you were in a rush. Motorcycle knowledge test questions can be tricky; it’s best you take your time and ensure you know what each question wants. And where you are not sure, pick what you think is best; it’s what the practice sessions prepared you for, after all.

Above all, stay positive. Evidence shows that believing in positive outcomes boosts confidence. If you’ve studied hard and followed good advice, then relax and hope for good results.

Some of the stuff you’ll need for the test include:

• ID
• Test fee payment
• Parent consent for those under 19 years

The test will be administered at your local driving license office. You will be required to book an appointment. Before the test, they’ll inquire about your medical condition and examine your vision. Once you pass the eye test, you can sit for the Ontario Motorcycle License exam.

Wrap-up

The M1 test ensures only the best motorists take on the roads for their own safety and that of other people on the road. Please don’t take it lightly. While riding through the streets in warm sunny weather is almost everyone’s favorite activity, motorcycles are dangerous, knowledge of traffic laws and the use of protective gear is a must. Stay safe on the road!