OH HB17

Amends section 4510.12 of the Revised Code to clarify penalties for operating a motorcycle without a valid motorcycle endorsement or restricted license.

Establishes that operating a motorcycle without proper licensing (endorsement or restricted license) constitutes operating a motor vehicle without a valid license, subject to the same penalty structure as other unlicensed driving violations.

Classifies violations based on endorsement/license status: first-time offense with no prior valid license is a first-degree misdemeanor; expired license for six months or less is a minor misdemeanor; expired more than six months is a fourth-degree misdemeanor.

Escalates penalties for repeat offenders within three years: one prior violation becomes third-degree misdemeanor, two violations become second-degree misdemeanor, three or more violations become first-degree misdemeanor.

Requires courts to impose class seven license suspension for offenders with expired licenses (over six months) and prior violations within the past three years.