What Class CM Means on Your Texas Driver's License

Class CM is a motorcycle license for riders who want to operate motorized bicycles only

A Class CM license in Texas allows you to ride a motorized bicycle — a pedal bike with an attached motor of 50 cubic centimeters or less. It is the most limited motorcycle license Texas offers, and it does not let you ride a standard motorcycle, even a small one. If you want to ride anything larger than a motorized bicycle, you need a different class.

The motor size limit is the key boundary. A motorized bicycle with a 50cc engine or smaller falls under Class CM. A motorcycle with a 51cc engine or larger does not. This matters because the rules, training, and testing differ sharply between the two.

Key Takeaways

Class CM covers only motorized bicycles with engines of 50 cubic centimeters or smaller, not standard motorcycles.
You do not need a separate motorcycle endorsement to ride a Class CM vehicle — it appears as its own license class on your card.
Texas does not require a written test or riding skills test to get a Class CM license if you already hold a valid driver's license.
If your motorized bicycle engine is larger than 50cc, you must obtain a Class M license instead, which requires both a written and riding test.

How Class CM differs from Class M motorcycle licenses

Texas has two motorcycle license classes: Class M and Class CM. Class M covers all motorcycles and motorized bicycles with engines larger than 50cc. Class CM covers only motorized bicycles with 50cc engines or smaller. The difference in engine size determines which class you need and what testing you must complete.

To get a Class M license, you must pass both a written knowledge test and a riding skills test, either through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) or through an approved motorcycle safety course. To get a Class CM license, you do not need either test if you already hold a valid Texas driver's license — you can straightforward request the endorsement when you renew or replace your license.

Class CM riders are also subject to different road rules than Class M riders in some situations. For example, some insurance requirements and helmet laws may explore differently depending on your license class and the vehicle you are riding. Check with your insurance company about coverage for a motorized bicycle before you ride.

Who needs a Class CM license

You need a Class CM license if you own and ride a motorized bicycle with a 50cc engine or smaller. Many people use motorized bicycles for short commutes, delivery work, or recreation. If your vehicle has pedals and an engine small enough to meet the 50cc limit, Class CM is the correct license class.

If you are unsure whether your motorized bicycle meets the 50cc threshold, check the manufacturer's specifications or the vehicle's title or registration. The engine displacement is usually listed in cubic centimeters (cc). If you cannot find this information, contact the Texas DPS or visit a local driver's license office — staff can help you determine which class you need.

How to get a Class CM license in Texas

If you already hold a valid Texas driver's license, you can add a Class CM license by visiting a Texas DPS driver's license office in person. Bring your current driver's license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and proof of Social Security number. You will fill out an process form and pay a fee. The fee varies depending on whether you are renewing your license at the same time or adding the class to an existing license.

The process is faster than obtaining a Class M license because no test is required. You should receive your new license with the Class CM designation within a few business days, though you can request a temporary paper license to ride when ready while you wait for the plastic card to arrive.

If you do not yet have a Texas driver's license, you must first obtain one before you can add Class CM. This means passing the written knowledge test and vision test for a standard driver's license, then adding the Class CM designation in the same visit or at a later visit.

What you can and cannot ride with Class CM

With a Class CM license, you can legally ride a motorized bicycle with an engine of 50cc or smaller on public roads in Texas. You cannot ride a standard motorcycle, a scooter with an engine larger than 50cc, an all-terrain vehicle (ATV), or any other motorized vehicle not specifically a motorized bicycle.

The vehicle itself must still meet Texas safety standards. Your motorized bicycle should have working brakes, lights, and reflectors. You must wear a helmet that meets Department of Transportation (DOT) standards — Texas law requires helmets for all motorcycle riders, including Class CM riders. Some cities or counties may have additional local rules, so check with your city or county before you ride.

When you need to upgrade to Class M instead

If your motorized bicycle has an engine larger than 50cc, you cannot legally ride it with a Class CM license. You must obtain a Class M license instead. This requires passing both a written test and a riding skills test through the Texas DPS or through an approved motorcycle safety course provider.

The written test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe riding practices specific to motorcycles. The riding skills test is performed on a closed course and evaluates your ability to control the motorcycle, brake, turn, and avoid obstacles. Many riders find it helpful to take a motorcycle safety course before testing, both to prepare and because completing an approved course can waive the riding test requirement at some DPS offices.

If you already hold a Class CM license and later purchase a motorcycle with a larger engine, you have time to obtain the Class M license before riding the new vehicle. You do not need to surrender your Class CM license — you can hold both classes simultaneously.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ride a Class CM motorized bicycle on the highway?

Most Texas highways prohibit motorized bicycles, including Class CM vehicles. Check the specific highway's posted restrictions before riding. Many riders use motorized bicycles on city streets, county roads, and rural roads instead. Contact your local police department or county transportation office if you are unsure whether a particular road allows motorized bicycles.

Do I need to register a motorized bicycle if I have a Class CM license?

Registration requirements for motorized bicycles vary by city and county in Texas. Some areas require registration and a license plate; others do not. Check with your city or county clerk's office or your local police department to find out what is required where you live before you ride.

What happens if I ride a 51cc motorized bicycle with only a Class CM license?

Riding a vehicle that exceeds your license class is illegal in Texas. You could receive a citation, face fines, and have your license suspended. Your insurance may also deny a claim if you were riding an unlicensed vehicle at the time of an accident. Always verify your vehicle's engine size matches your license class.

Can I get a Class CM license without a current driver's license?

No. Texas requires you to hold a valid driver's license before you can add a Class CM designation. If you do not have a driver's license, you must first pass the written knowledge test and vision test for a standard license, then add Class CM in the same visit or later.

How much does a Class CM license cost in Texas?

The fee depends on whether you are adding Class CM to an existing license or renewing your license at the same time. Fees also vary by DPS office location. Contact your local Texas DPS driver's license office or visit the Texas DPS website for current pricing in your area.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.