New North Carolina Law in effect Jan 1, 2011

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New state laws accompanying the start of 2011 include one seeking to improve safety among younger motorcyclists.

As of Jan. 1, anyone under 18 who applies for a motorcycle license in North Carolina is required to pass a safety class, including those seeking a motorcycle learner’s permit or a driver’s license with a motorcycle endorsement.

The mandatory course must be taught by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation or the N.C. Motorcycle Safety Education Program.

A report from early December showed that 97 people had died in motorcycle accidents on state highways for the year so far.

While younger riders account for only a small portion of the deaths, officials hope to expand the training requirement if the program proves to be effective.

Another new law related to motorcycles will close a loophole that has allowed cyclists to ride legally without being required to pass a road test. Under previous guidelines, someone who passed a written test received a permit to ride that expired after 18 months, but could be renewed indefinitely. That allowed motorcyclists to avoid passing the road test required for a regular license.

As of Jan. 1, motorcycle learner’s permits are being issued for only 12 months, and just one renewal of six months will be allowed.

Full Story: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/40887206