What an R endorsement is and why you need it
An R endorsement on a New York driver's license authorizes you to operate a motorcycle. Without it, you cannot legally ride a motorcycle on public roads in New York, even if you own one. The R stands for "motorcycle" and appears on your license as a restriction or endorsement depending on your license class.
New York requires the R endorsement for any motorcycle with an engine larger than 50 cubic centimeters. If your motorcycle is 50cc or smaller, you may be able to ride it with a regular Class D license, but anything larger requires the endorsement. The endorsement applies to all motorcycle types: cruisers, sport bikes, touring bikes, and standard motorcycles.
Key Takeaways
- You must pass both a written test and a practical riding test to get an R endorsement, or pass an approved motorcycle safety course that waives the riding test.
- The written test covers New York motorcycle laws, road signs, and safe riding practices; you study the Motorcycle Manual available free from the DMV website.
- The practical test requires you to bring your own motorcycle or use one provided by an approved testing facility, and you must demonstrate basic control and safety skills.
- Taking an approved Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course costs money but gives you a waiver certificate that skips the riding test and often reduces insurance rates.
- You must be at least 16 years old to get an R endorsement in New York.
The written test route: studying and scheduling
The written test is the first step whether you take the riding test or use a safety course waiver. You need to study the New York Motorcycle Manual, which the DMV publishes free on its website at dmv.ny.gov. read it, read it cover to cover, and pay close attention to sections on motorcycle-specific laws, braking, turning, and hazard awareness. The manual is the source material for every question on the test.
Once you feel ready, schedule your written test at your local DMV office. You can book an appointment online at dmv.ny.gov or call 518-402-4368. Bring your current driver's license, proof of identity, and proof of residency (a utility bill or lease works). The test has 20 multiple-choice questions; you need 14 correct to pass. You can retake it if you fail, but you must wait one day before trying again.
The written test costs $10. You pay when you take the test. If you pass, the DMV will note that you have passed the written portion and you can move forward to either the riding test or submit your safety course certificate.
The riding test: what to bring and what happens
If you choose to take the practical riding test instead of using a safety course waiver, you must schedule it after you pass the written test. The riding test evaluates your ability to control a motorcycle, brake safely, turn, and navigate obstacles. It takes about 15 to 20 minutes and happens in a closed course, not on public roads.
You have two options for the motorcycle itself. You can bring your own motorcycle, which must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The examiner will inspect it before the test begins. Alternatively, you can use a motorcycle provided by a DMV-approved testing facility. Some facilities charge a fee (typically $50 to $100) to use their bike. Call ahead to confirm whether the facility near you offers this option and what the cost is.
On test day, wear a helmet, eye protection, long pants, closed-toe shoes, and a long-sleeved shirt or jacket. These are not optional — the examiner will not test you without proper gear. Bring your written test passing documentation and your current driver's license. The test costs $10. If you pass, you will receive a certificate that you take to the DMV to have the R endorsement added to your license.
The safety course route: MSF and waiver certificates
Taking an approved Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course is an alternative to the riding test. The course is typically two or three days long (often offered as a weekend course), costs between $200 and $350 depending on the provider, and teaches motorcycle operation, safety, and New York traffic laws. At the end, if you pass, you receive a waiver certificate that you bring to the DMV instead of taking the riding test.
To find an MSF course near you, visit the MSF website at msf-usa.org or search "MSF course New York" online. Many community colleges, motorcycle dealerships, and independent riding schools offer these courses. When you enroll, confirm that the course is MSF-certified and that it is approved by New York State — not all motorcycle courses may have access to. The course provider will tell you what to bring (usually just a helmet and appropriate clothing) and whether they provide a practice motorcycle or you need to bring your own.
The advantage of the safety course route is that you skip the riding test entirely, and many insurance companies offer a discount (typically 5 to 15 percent) if you hold an MSF certificate. The disadvantage is the upfront cost and time commitment. If you are confident in your riding ability and want to save money, the riding test is faster and cheaper. If you are new to motorcycles or want insurance savings, the course is worth considering.
Adding the R endorsement to your license at the DMV
Once you have passed the written test and either the riding test or completed a safety course, you are ready to go to the DMV to have the R endorsement added to your license. Bring your current driver's license, your written test passing documentation, and either your riding test passing certificate or your MSF waiver certificate. You will also need to pay a fee to add the endorsement to your license; this fee varies but is typically $20 to $30.
You can visit any DMV office in New York. If you want to avoid a long wait, schedule an appointment online at dmv.ny.gov or call 518-402-4368. At the office, tell the clerk you are adding an R endorsement. They will verify your documents, collect the fee, and issue you a new license with the R endorsement printed on it. You will receive your new license on the spot or by mail within a few days, depending on the office.
Your new license will show the R endorsement, which means you are now legally authorized to operate a motorcycle in New York. Keep your license in a safe place and carry it whenever you ride.
Age requirements and restrictions for young riders
You must be at least 16 years old to get an R endorsement in New York. If you are 16 or 17, you can get the endorsement, but your license will have additional restrictions. Specifically, you cannot ride between midnight and 5 a.m., and you cannot carry passengers. These restrictions lift when you turn 18.
If you are under 18, you must also hold a valid Class D driver's license before you can add the R endorsement. You cannot get the R endorsement as your first license. Once you turn 18, the nighttime and passenger restrictions automatically expire, and your R endorsement becomes unrestricted.
What happens if you fail the written or riding test
If you fail the written test, you can retake it after one day has passed. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it, but you must pay the $10 fee each time. Most people pass on the second attempt if they study the manual more carefully the first time.
If you fail the riding test, you can retake it, but you must wait at least one week before scheduling another attempt. Like the written test, there is no limit to retakes, and you pay $10 each time. Common reasons for failing include not demonstrating smooth braking, failing to complete a turn properly, or not maintaining control during an obstacle course. If you fail, ask the examiner for specific feedback on what went wrong, practice those skills, and try again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ride a motorcycle on public roads while I am waiting for my R endorsement to be processed?
No. You cannot legally ride a motorcycle on public roads in New York without the R endorsement on your license. Riding without it is a violation and can result in a fine. Wait until you receive your new license with the endorsement before you ride.
Do I need to take a written test if I already have an R endorsement from another state?
No. If you have a valid motorcycle endorsement from another state and you are moving to New York, you can transfer it without retesting. Bring your out-of-state license and proof of residency to the DMV, and they will issue you a New York license with the R endorsement. You will still need to pay the endorsement fee.
What if I fail the MSF course?
If you do not pass the MSF course, you do not receive a waiver certificate. You will need to take the riding test at the DMV instead. You have already passed the written test, so you only need to schedule and pass the riding test. You will still pay the $10 riding test fee.
Can I use a motorcycle with automatic transmission for the riding test?
Yes. You can use any street-legal motorcycle for the riding test, including automatic transmission bikes. The test evaluates your control and safety skills, not the type of transmission. If you use an automatic for the test, your R endorsement is unrestricted and you can ride any motorcycle, manual or automatic.
How long does the R endorsement stay on my license?
The R endorsement stays on your license as long as your license is valid. When you renew your driver's license, the R endorsement renews with it. You do not need to retake any test or pay an additional fee when you renew — the endorsement carries over automatically.