Here in Italy it's fairly easy to get stopped by street police. If you didn't have a licence, up until some time ago you risked very heavy fines. Today you risk jail, 2 months to 2 years. AND the very heavy fine, obviously.

 

Most insurance policies will not pay up if your operating without a license, even if a wreck was the other guys fault.

 

In Texas you can take the written test and get a learners permit endorsement--allows you to operate a motorcycle within so many feet of a licensed driver. I got the permit--rode for six months or so than took the driving skills test.I went to a small town DMV and took the skills test--no waiting and no scheduling--show up and ride around the block under supervision. The person giving me the test informed me I passed but that I rode to slow, on a broken asphalt road with loose gravel. I just smiled and thought I have to pay for this. MSF course is a good course but it doesn't go far enough---it teaches basics but it doesn't coverenough survivalskills----needs another day added. As far as I am concerned I shouldn't have to pay for a driver license and the test is bs. Just another form of taxation and head count. They nickel and dime me to death everyday the lowlifes.

 

I think it costs $15, you take the written test and you get a learner's permit that is good for 6 months. Makes you legal (provided you pass the test) and takes away the paranoia.

 

Cain't think of ANY reason why you should not get the endorsment.....git it, my friend!

 

Many time the posts on this site brings out the many different attitudes and opinions about what to wear and where to go, and how to act, etc, however, you seem to have hit a nerve that all are in agreement with, thanks for this post. By the way glad to hear you're going to get the license.