RW> Texas says you still have to take the written test, but because you   
   RW> passed   
   RW> the state sponsored riding class, you don't have to take the riding test.   
   RW> Once you pass the state's written exam, you have your license to ride.   
      
   Here in MD, you can take a riding safety class at your local community   
   college.  There is classroom time, a written test, and the riding test.  You   
   also get a good deal of practice time.  If I remember correctly, it was every   
   weekend for 3 or 4 weeks).     
      
   At the end of the class - provided you pass everything, you can your   
   certificate to get your license.  You then go to the MVA and have your license   
   altered to add the "M".     
      
   RW> I've ridden since I was a senior in high school. Not as often as I would   
   RW> have liked to, but often enough that I only had to re-learn balance while   
   RW> up on two wheels, which comes back to you in just a few minutes after not   
   RW> riding for a long spell.   
      
   I never rode a motorcycle in my life until I bought my HD.  I had also never   
   driven or riden on anything that had a clutch.   
      
   Once I had mastered the clutch and shifting, things got easier.  It took me a   
   good 3 months to feel more comfortable riding.     
      
   Many people in my class had bikes before.  I was one of the only ones that   
   didn't - and went right to a heavy bike.  :)   
      
   - Mark   
      
   --- WWIVToss v.1.50    
    * Origin:  http://www.weather-station.org * Bel Air, MD -USA (1:261/1304.0)