Tennessee Motorcycle Manual
Read the official manual from TN DOS directly. Download the PDF for offline study or read it online.
Tennessee Motorcycle Operator Manual
Official Resource
This handbook is sourced directly from TN DOS.
Testing at a Glance for Tennessee
Once you've read the handbook, here's what to expect at the TN DOS knowledge test.
30
70%
60 min
Documents You'll Need When You Take the Tennessee Test
One proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence, one proof of SSN, and two proofs of Tennessee residency.
Tennessee-Specific Rules Covered in This Handbook
Rules unique to Tennessee that TN DOS weights heavily in the knowledge test — you'll see these in the handbook chapters.
- gavel Hands-Free Law (T.C.A. 55-8-199): illegal to hold a cell phone or device while driving
- gavel Slow Poke Law: prohibits left-lane driving on multilane highways except for passing ($50 fine)
- gavel Move Over Law (T.C.A. 55-8-132): must move over or slow for emergency, tow, maintenance, solid waste, utility vehicles
- gavel GDL: age 15 must pass knowledge test and hold learner permit 6 months before intermediate license
- gavel At-home proctored knowledge test available for ages 15-17 via Tennessee Proctor ID App
After You Pass: Tennessee License Renewal
8 years
$28
Courtesy renewal notices are mailed approximately 8-10 weeks before the credential expires
More Tennessee Driving Resources
Tennessee Handbook FAQ
Is this the official Tennessee motorcycle handbook?
Yes. The handbook mirrored above is the same document TN DOS publishes on its official website — we host it here for faster mobile loading and cleaner reading.
Can I get a printed copy of the Tennessee handbook?
Some TN DOS field offices distribute free printed copies while supplies last — availability varies by location. If none are stocked, you can print the PDF at any office-supply or public library.
Do I have to read the whole Tennessee handbook to pass the test?
The TN DOS test has 30 questions and you need 21 correct (70%) to pass. All questions come from the handbook, but strategic readers focus on Signs, Right-of-Way, and Signaling first — those chapters carry the most test weight.
How current is this Tennessee handbook version?
TN DOS updates the handbook when state law changes — usually once per year, sometimes more when major legislation passes. Our copy is refreshed against the state site as soon as a new edition drops.
Does the Tennessee motorcycle manual align with MSF curriculum?
Substantially, yes. Most state motorcycle manuals are adapted from the MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual, so if you complete a Basic RiderCourse the manual content will feel familiar.
Does the Tennessee motorcycle manual replace the driver handbook?
No — the Motorcycle Operator Manual covers Class M-specific skills (controls, cornering, lane positioning) and adds to the standard driver handbook rather than replacing it. You must know both to pass the Class M endorsement test.
How is the Tennessee knowledge test administered after I finish reading?
30 multiple-choice questions, minimum 80% (24/30) required to pass.
Which Tennessee handbook chapters are most likely to appear on the test?
Highest test yield: Traffic Signs (largest single section), Right-of-Way & Intersections, Signals & Signaling, Speed Limits & Following Distance, and Alcohol/Drug laws. Skimming safe-driving-in-fog-type appendices last is a common time-saver.