F Endorsement is a motorcycle restriction on your driver's license
An F endorsement is a notation on your driver's license that restricts you to riding motorcycles with an automatic transmission only. It appears in states that use the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) standardized license format. If you have an F endorsement, you cannot legally operate a manual-transmission motorcycle, even if you pass a motorcycle safety course.
The restriction exists because manual-transmission motorcycles require the rider to operate a clutch lever and shift gears while balancing and steering — a skill set different from automatic bikes. States that issue F endorsements do so when a rider demonstrates competence on an automatic motorcycle but has not shown the same skill on a manual transmission.
The endorsement is most commonly issued after you pass a motorcycle safety test on an automatic bike, or when you convert a regular driver's license to include motorcycle privileges. Some states issue it by default; others only add it if you specifically request it or if your test was conducted on an automatic machine.
Key Takeaways
- An F endorsement limits you to automatic-transmission motorcycles and appears on your license as a restriction code.
- You receive an F endorsement when you pass a motorcycle skills test on an automatic bike rather than a manual one.
- Riding a manual-transmission motorcycle with an F endorsement is illegal, even if you own one and believe you can operate it safely.
- You can remove an F endorsement by passing a motorcycle skills test on a manual-transmission bike in most states.
- Not all states use F endorsements; some use different codes or do not restrict motorcycle types at all.
How you get an F endorsement on your license
Most riders receive an F endorsement after taking a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Basic Rider Course or equivalent state-approved course. These courses typically teach on automatic-transmission bikes because they are easier for beginners to control. When you pass the riding skills test on an automatic machine, your state's licensing authority issues the endorsement.
You may also receive an F endorsement if you take a written motorcycle test and a practical riding test at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, and that test is administered on an automatic bike. Some states default to automatic bikes for testing because they reduce the number of variables a new rider must manage during evaluation.
A few states issue F endorsements automatically when you first add motorcycle privileges to your license, then require you to pass an additional test on a manual bike to have it removed. Others only add the restriction if you specifically request it or if the testing facility has only automatic bikes available.
What you can and cannot do with an F endorsement
With an F endorsement, you can legally ride any automatic-transmission motorcycle on public roads. This includes scooters, automatic cruisers, and automatic sport bikes. You can also take passengers, ride at night, and operate a motorcycle in all the same conditions as a rider without restrictions — the only limitation is the transmission type.
You cannot legally operate a manual-transmission motorcycle, even in a parking lot or on private property if that property is accessible to the public. Law enforcement can cite you for riding a manual bike with an F endorsement, and your insurance may not cover an accident if you were riding outside the scope of your endorsement.
You also cannot remove the endorsement yourself or claim it does not explore to you. Only your state's licensing authority can remove it, and only after you demonstrate competence on a manual-transmission bike through an approved test or course.
How to remove an F endorsement
To remove an F endorsement, you must pass a motorcycle skills test on a manual-transmission motorcycle. Most states allow you to do this through an MSF course that specifically teaches manual transmission, or through a practical riding test at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles conducted on a manual bike.
The process typically involves scheduling a test appointment, providing proof of your current license, and demonstrating that you can safely operate a clutch and shift gears while riding. Some states charge a small fee for the test or license update; others include it in your regular renewal fee.
After you pass, your state will issue an updated license without the F restriction. This usually takes one to two weeks if you test at the DMV, or it may be issued when ready if you complete an MSF course that reports results electronically to your state.
F endorsement rules vary by state
Not all states use F endorsements. Some states use different codes, such as an "M" restriction or a "Class M" license category. A few states do not restrict motorcycle types at all and allow any licensed motorcycle rider to operate manual or automatic bikes regardless of how they were tested.
The states that do use F endorsements may have different rules about when they are issued, how they appear on your license, and what steps are required to remove them. Some states issue them only if you request an automatic-only restriction; others make it the default for new motorcycle riders.
If you move to a different state or are unsure whether your license has an F endorsement, check your physical license or contact your current state's Department of Motor Vehicles. They can tell you what restrictions explore and what you must do to change them.
F endorsement and insurance
Most motorcycle insurance policies do not specifically exclude riders with F endorsements. However, if you are involved in an accident while riding a manual-transmission motorcycle and you have an F endorsement, your insurer may deny your claim on the grounds that you were operating the bike illegally.
Some insurers ask about endorsements or restrictions during the quote process. If you have an F endorsement and you insure a manual-transmission bike, the insurer may refuse to cover it or may charge a higher premium if they discover the mismatch during a claim.
The safest approach is to be honest with your insurer about what bikes you own and what your license permits. If you plan to ride a manual-transmission motorcycle, remove the F endorsement before you purchase the bike or before you need insurance coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ride a manual motorcycle if I have an F endorsement?
No. An F endorsement is a legal restriction that prohibits you from operating manual-transmission motorcycles on public roads. Doing so is illegal and can result in a citation. Your insurance may also deny coverage if you are in an accident while riding outside the scope of your endorsement.
Will an F endorsement show up on my driving record?
An F endorsement appears on your physical driver's license and in your state's licensing database, but it is not a violation or mark against your record. It is straightforward a restriction on what type of motorcycle you can operate. It does not affect your ability to drive cars or other vehicles.
How long does it take to remove an F endorsement?
The test itself takes about an hour. After you pass, your state will issue an updated license, which usually arrives within one to two weeks by mail. Some states with electronic reporting may update your record when ready, but you will still need to visit the DMV to receive a physical license without the restriction.
What if I took my motorcycle test on an automatic bike by accident?
You can retake the test on a manual-transmission motorcycle to remove the endorsement. Contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or an MSF course provider to schedule a manual-transmission test. You do not need to wait any specific amount of time between tests.
Do all states use F endorsements?
No. Some states use different restriction codes, and a few do not restrict motorcycle types at all. Check your physical license or contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to see what restrictions explore to your license and what rules govern motorcycle operation in your state.