Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Transportation Committee

SB 5141

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Limiting the issuance of motorcycle instruction permits.

Sponsors: Senators Rockefeller, Haugen, Delvin, Benton, Kilmer, Swecker, Hatfield, Sheldon, Shin and Roach.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Limits the Department of Licensing to issuing a third and final motorcycle instruction permit only upon presentation of documented evidence that the permittee is enrolled in an authorized motorcycle skills education program.

Hearing Date: 2/25/11

Staff: Wendy Malkin (786-7114).

Background:

A person holding a valid driver's license may apply for a motorcycle instruction permit. The Department of Licensing (DOL) may issue an instruction permit after the applicant has successfully passed all parts of the motorcycle examination other than the driving test. A person holding an instruction permit may drive a motorcycle upon the public highways but may not carry passengers on his or her motorcycle and may not operate his or her motorcycle during the hours of darkness. An instruction permit is valid for 90 days from the date of issue.

The DOL may issue a third instruction permit if it finds after an investigation that the permittee is diligently seeking to improve his or her driving proficiency.

Summary of Bill:

The DOL may issue a third and final motorcycle instruction permit only upon presentation of documented evidence that the permittee is enrolled in an authorized motorcycle skills education program with a class start date prior to the expiration of the third instruction permit.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.