Motorcycle Safety & Driveability: Motorcycle license, motorcycle endorsement, motorcycle licenses

Question
Hello. I need to get a few things clear.  I've read a few websites on motorcycle licenses but i'm still a little unclear.  

I'm 17 years old and I just want to get my temps to start.  I work at a motorsports store and it would be very useful to have a temps and eventually my license.  Being under age, do I need to attend a saftey school first before I can get my temps, or can I just go an get it from the DMV.
Is the motorcycle licensing similar to a class D drivers license?  School first, temps, 6 months experience then your test and perminent license?

Thanks for any info you can give me.  
Nick

Answer
Nick, it varies from state to state. You'd want to ask that question of the licensing authority in your state. If that's Minnesota, I can help, but if it's not, I can't.

Generally, the process for the license is a knowledge test for an instruction permit, and then a skill test for the motorcycle endorsement. You generally must already have a driver's license. Many states require minors to take the basic rider course, but others don't. Some states allow you to skip the skills test at the exam station if you take the basic rider course.

I hope that helps a little.

Pat