A two-pole endorsement lets you drive a motorcycle with a sidecar attached

A two-pole endorsement is a notation on your driver's license that permits you to operate a motorcycle that has a sidecar. Without this endorsement, your motorcycle license does not cover sidecars, even if you own one. The endorsement exists because a motorcycle with a sidecar handles differently than a motorcycle alone — it has different weight distribution, braking characteristics, and stability — so states require separate testing to confirm you understand those differences.

The endorsement is sometimes called a "sidecar endorsement" or listed under motorcycle endorsement codes that vary by state. Some states use the letter "F" or "M" to denote it; others use a three-digit code. The specific label depends on your state's driver's license classification system, but the function is the same across all states that offer it.

Key Takeaways

  • A two-pole endorsement authorizes you to ride a motorcycle with a sidecar attached, which requires separate testing from a standard motorcycle endorsement.
  • Motorcycles with sidecars have different handling and braking than solo motorcycles, which is why states regulate them separately.
  • Not all states offer a two-pole endorsement; some include sidecar operation under the standard motorcycle endorsement, while others do not permit sidecars at all.
  • To obtain the endorsement, you typically take a written test, a skills test, or both, depending on your state's requirements.

Why states require a separate endorsement for sidecars

A sidecar changes how a motorcycle behaves on the road. The added weight on one side affects lean angle, turning radius, and how the bike responds to braking. If you brake hard on a motorcycle with a sidecar, the sidecar wheel can lift off the ground, which can cause loss of control. Cornering also requires different technique because the sidecar resists the lean that a solo motorcycle uses to turn.

States treat this as a safety issue similar to the difference between driving a car and driving a large truck. The endorsement ensures that you have demonstrated competency with the specific vehicle type before you operate it on public roads. Some riders who are skilled on solo motorcycles have had accidents on sidecars because they did not adjust their technique, so the testing requirement serves a real purpose.

How to get a two-pole endorsement

The process varies by state, but most require you to hold a valid motorcycle endorsement first. You then visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or equivalent agency and request the sidecar endorsement. You will usually take a written test covering sidecar-specific handling and safety, and many states also require a practical riding test on a motorcycle with a sidecar.

Some states waive the practical test if you complete an approved motorcycle safety course that includes sidecar instruction. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation and similar organizations offer these courses in many states. Check your state's DMV website to see whether a course completion certificate can substitute for the riding test, because this can save you time and the cost of renting a sidecar-equipped motorcycle for the test.

State-by-state variation in sidecar rules

Not every state offers a two-pole endorsement as a separate category. Some states include sidecar operation under the standard motorcycle endorsement, meaning you do not need an additional notation. Other states do not regulate sidecars separately at all, treating them as a modification to the motorcycle rather than a distinct vehicle class.

A few states have restrictions on where or how you can operate a sidecar even with an endorsement — for example, some prohibit sidecars on certain highways or require specific safety equipment. Before you purchase a sidecar or plan to use one, contact your state's DMV to confirm what endorsement you need and what rules explore in your state. The rules can also change, so checking directly with your state rather than relying on older information is important.

What happens if you ride a sidecar without the endorsement

Operating a motorcycle with a sidecar without the required endorsement is typically treated as driving with an invalid license or driving without the proper class of license. This is a traffic violation that can result in a fine, points on your driving record, and in some cases a court appearance. Insurance may also deny a claim if you were operating the vehicle without the proper endorsement at the time of an accident.

The penalty varies by state and by whether you were in an accident or straightforward stopped by police. In most places, the fine is similar to other license violations — typically between $100 and $500 — but the specific amount depends on your state's traffic code. More importantly, a violation can affect your insurance rates and your driving record for years.

Sidecar endorsement versus motorcycle endorsement

A motorcycle endorsement permits you to ride a solo motorcycle. A two-pole endorsement adds permission to operate a motorcycle with a sidecar. In most states, you cannot get a sidecar endorsement without first holding a motorcycle endorsement, because the assumption is that you already know how to ride a motorcycle before you add the complexity of a sidecar.

Some riders assume that if they can ride a solo motorcycle, they can automatically ride one with a sidecar. This is not true from a legal standpoint — the endorsement is separate — and it is also not true from a practical standpoint. The handling is different enough that many experienced solo riders benefit from instruction before operating a sidecar. The endorsement requirement reflects this reality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a two-pole endorsement if I own a motorcycle but do not currently have a sidecar?

No. The endorsement is only required when you actually operate a motorcycle with a sidecar attached. If you own a motorcycle without a sidecar, your standard motorcycle endorsement is sufficient. You can obtain the sidecar endorsement later if you decide to add one.

Can I take a sidecar endorsement test on a motorcycle that is not mine?

Yes, in most states. You do not have to own the motorcycle you test on. Many people rent a sidecar-equipped motorcycle from a dealer or training facility specifically for the test. Check with your state's DMV to confirm whether the motorcycle must be registered to you or whether any legal sidecar motorcycle is acceptable.

What if my state does not offer a two-pole endorsement?

Contact your state's DMV to find out how sidecars are regulated in your state. Some states include sidecar operation under the standard motorcycle endorsement, so you may not need a separate notation. Others may have different rules or restrictions. Your DMV can tell you what you need to do before operating a sidecar legally.

Does a two-pole endorsement cost extra?

Most states charge a fee to add an endorsement to your license, though the amount varies. The fee is typically between $10 and $50, but check your state's DMV fee schedule for the exact cost. You may also need to pay for a skills test or written test if your state requires one.