[MATCHBX]

You can get your instructional permit by going down to the testing center and take the written test. That is good for a year. You can only ride during the day. You can't take passengers and you can't ride on interstates. Get some miles under your belt and take one of the MSF courses. They have them at most of the colleges around like DCTC, Hennepin Tech, etc. The course costs about $125 (4.5 hours of classroom and 10 hours on the bike) and when you complete the course successfully, you have your full license. You have to take a test at the end of the course, but it's thru the place that gave you the course, not the DMV. It's easier and they help you thru it (from what I hear). And you get to use their bikes which are 125-250cc bikes. They're easier to handle around the track. The guy I'm buying my bike from is one of the instructors. Otherwise, you can just get your permit and then take your on the bike test. The written test is easy. They have the manual online at the DVS website with practice tests and quick quizzes.

As for insurance, I'm not sure what mine will be. I will be setting it up tomorrow so it's ready to go.