Texas requires a motorcycle endorsement on your driver's license to ride any motorcycle legally

You cannot legally ride a motorcycle in Texas with only a regular driver's license. The state requires a separate motorcycle endorsement — an "M" designation added to your existing license. This applies to any two-wheeled motorized vehicle with an engine larger than 50 cubic centimeters (cc). Riding without this endorsement is a traffic violation that can result in a fine, and your insurance may not cover an accident if you're riding illegally.

The endorsement process involves passing a written test about motorcycle safety and traffic laws, plus a riding skills test on an actual motorcycle. Texas allows you to take these tests through the Department of Public Safety (DPS), or you can bypass the riding test by completing an approved motorcycle safety course. Most riders choose the course route because it's faster, teaches practical skills, and often qualifies you for insurance discounts.

Key Takeaways

  • Texas law requires an "M" endorsement on your driver's license to ride any motorcycle with an engine larger than 50cc.
  • You can obtain the endorsement by passing a written test and riding skills test at the DPS, or by completing a state-approved motorcycle safety course.
  • A motorcycle safety course takes one to three days and waives the DPS riding test, making it the faster path for most people.
  • Riding without a valid endorsement is a traffic violation that can result in fines and may void your insurance coverage in an accident.

Who needs a motorcycle endorsement in Texas

Any rider operating a motorcycle with an engine larger than 50cc must have the endorsement. This includes standard motorcycles, cruisers, sport bikes, touring bikes, and most three-wheeled motorcycles (trikes). The 50cc threshold is important: mopeds and scooters with engines 50cc or smaller do not require the endorsement, though you still need a valid driver's license to operate them.

The endorsement requirement applies whether you own the motorcycle, borrow it, or rent it. Riding someone else's bike without the endorsement carries the same penalty as riding your own. If you're under 18, you also need a valid motorcycle endorsement on your license — there is no separate minor's permit for motorcycles in Texas.

Getting the endorsement through the DPS

The Department of Public Safety offers two paths to the endorsement: the standard route and the safety course route. On the standard route, you visit a DPS office and take a written test covering Texas motorcycle laws, road signs, and safe riding practices. The test is 25 questions, and you must score at least 80 percent to pass. After passing the written test, you schedule a separate appointment for the riding skills test.

The riding skills test takes place at a DPS testing site and lasts about 15 minutes. You bring your own motorcycle or rent one from a testing facility (some DPS offices have partnerships with local motorcycle shops). The examiner watches you perform basic maneuvers: starting, stopping, turning, and swerving. You must demonstrate control and follow traffic laws during the test. If you fail either test, you can retake it, but you must wait at least one day before trying again.

The written test costs around $10 to $15, and the riding test costs roughly $30 to $35, though fees vary slightly by location. Check your local DPS office website for exact pricing and current wait times, as some offices have longer backlogs than others.

Completing a motorcycle safety course instead

The faster and more popular route is taking a state-approved motorcycle safety course. Texas recognizes courses offered by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) and other DPS-approved providers. These courses teach classroom instruction and hands-on riding in a controlled environment, usually over one to three days depending on the course format.

When you complete an approved course, you receive a certificate that you bring to the DPS. Present the certificate along with your driver's license and a completed DL-44 form (process for Texas Driver License or Identification Card). The DPS adds the "M" endorsement to your license without requiring you to take the written or riding test. This process is much faster than the standard route — you can often walk out with your new license the same day or within a few days.

Motorcycle safety courses cost between $150 and $300 depending on the provider and course length. Many insurance companies offer a discount of 5 to 15 percent on motorcycle premiums if you've completed an approved course, which often pays back the course cost within the first year. Search online for "MSF motorcycle course near me" or check the DPS website for a list of approved providers in your area.

What happens if you ride without an endorsement

Riding a motorcycle without a valid endorsement is a traffic violation in Texas. A first offense typically results in a fine between $100 and $200, though the exact amount depends on the officer and the jurisdiction. You may also receive a citation that goes on your driving record, which can affect your insurance rates.

More importantly, if you're in an accident while riding without an endorsement, your motorcycle insurance may refuse to pay for damages or injuries. Insurance companies can deny claims if you were violating the law at the time of the accident. This means you could be personally liable for medical bills, vehicle repairs, and damages to other people's property — costs that can easily reach tens of thousands of dollars.

Renewing or transferring your endorsement

Once you have the "M" endorsement, it stays on your license as long as your license is valid. You do not need to renew the endorsement separately. When your driver's license expires and you renew it, the endorsement carries over automatically — you do not need to retake any tests or pay additional fees.

If you move to Texas from another state with a valid motorcycle endorsement, you can transfer it. Bring your out-of-state license to a DPS office along with proof of residency and your Social Security number. The DPS will issue you a Texas license with the endorsement transferred. You do not need to retake tests if your out-of-state endorsement was valid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ride a motorcycle with just a regular driver's license if I'm only riding on private property?

No. The endorsement requirement applies anywhere you operate the motorcycle, including private property. However, if you're riding on private land that is not accessible to the public and you're not on any public road, the law is less likely to be enforced. That said, you still need the endorsement to be legal.

How long does it take to get the endorsement through a motorcycle safety course?

Most courses run one to three days depending on the format. Some providers offer weekend courses, others spread instruction over weeknights. After you complete the course and bring your certificate to the DPS, you typically receive your license with the endorsement within a few days, sometimes the same day.

What if I fail the DPS riding test?

You can retake the test after waiting at least one day. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it. Many people who fail the DPS test choose to take a motorcycle safety course instead, which teaches the skills in a structured environment and waives the riding test requirement.

Do I need an endorsement to ride a moped or scooter with a 50cc engine?

No. Mopeds and scooters with engines 50cc or smaller do not require a motorcycle endorsement in Texas. You only need a valid driver's license. Anything larger than 50cc requires the endorsement.

Will my insurance be cheaper if I take a motorcycle safety course?

Most insurance companies offer a discount of 5 to 15 percent if you complete an approved course. The discount amount varies by insurer, so contact your insurance company before taking the course to confirm they recognize the provider and what discount you'll receive.