ATLANTA — Based on a recent law change, beginning July 1, drivers in Georgia operating three-wheel auto-cycles (three-wheel motor vehicles controlled by a steering wheel) will no longer be required to possess a motorcycle license or motorcycle learner’s permit.

Georgia residents who wish to legally operate an auto-cycle in Georgia will no longer be required to take the Department of Driver Services motorcycle knowledge test or motorcycle skills test, according to a DDS press release.

Instead, effective July 1, drivers in Georgia operating three-wheel auto-cycles will only be required to possess a valid Georgia Class C (regular) driver’s license, a valid Georgia Class CP (regular) learner’s permit, or any equivalent class of driver’s license or learner’s permit issued by another state.

Two-wheel and three-wheel motor vehicles that are controlled by handlebars and require the driver to straddle a seat will be considered motorcycles and will require the driver to possess a valid Georgia Class M (motorcycle) driver’s license, a valid Georgia Class MP (motorcycle) learner’s permit, or any equivalent valid class of driver’s license or learner’s permit issued by another state, according to state officials.

The changes are based on Sections 2A and 6A of House Bill 136, which was passed by the Georgia General Assembly March 30 and signed into law by Gov. Nathan Deal May 1.

DDS strongly encourages Georgia residents traveling on an auto-cycle outside of Georgia to check other states laws in advance, as license requirements may vary among states.