What a motorcycle endorsement is and why you need one

A motorcycle endorsement is a notation on your driver's license that says you are legally permitted to operate a motorcycle on public roads. Without it, riding a motorcycle is illegal even if you own one, and you can be ticketed or have your license suspended. The endorsement proves you have passed a written test on motorcycle safety and either passed a riding skills test or completed an approved training course.

The process differs slightly by state, but the basic steps are the same everywhere: you study the motorcycle section of your state's driver manual, pass a written knowledge test, and demonstrate riding ability. Some states let you skip the riding test if you complete a certified motorcycle safety course instead.

Key Takeaways

  • You must pass a written test on motorcycle laws and safety, which covers topics like braking distance, protective gear, and road hazards specific to motorcycles.
  • Most states require either a riding skills test at the DMV or completion of a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course, but not both.
  • Taking an MSF course often costs $150 to $300 and takes one to three days, but many states waive the riding test if you pass the course.
  • You will need to bring your current driver's license, proof of residency, and sometimes proof of insurance to the DMV when you test.
  • The written test can usually be taken at any DMV office, but the riding test may only be offered on certain days or at specific locations.

The written knowledge test

Every state requires you to pass a written test covering motorcycle-specific rules and safety. The test is usually 25 to 50 questions and covers topics like how motorcycles handle in wet conditions, the correct way to brake, how to position yourself on the bike, and what protective gear is required. You study the motorcycle section of your state's driver manual, which is free and available online or at any DMV office.

The test is typically offered at your local DMV office during regular hours, and you can usually schedule it online or walk in. You need to bring your current driver's license and proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and address). Most states charge a small fee, usually $10 to $25, though this varies. You must score at least 80 percent to pass, and if you fail, you can retake it after a waiting period—usually a few days to a week.

Choosing between a riding test and a safety course

After you pass the written test, you have two paths: take a riding skills test at the DMV, or complete a state-approved motorcycle safety course. Most riders choose the course because it is more forgiving than the DMV test, and many states waive the riding test entirely if you finish the course.

The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) offers the most widely recognized course, called the Basic Rider Course. It runs for one to three days depending on whether you take the full course or the abbreviated version, costs $150 to $300, and includes both classroom instruction and hands-on riding practice. You bring your own motorcycle or use one provided by the course. At the end, you receive a certificate that you bring to the DMV, and in most states, that certificate satisfies the riding requirement entirely.

If you choose the DMV riding test instead, you will ride a motorcycle on a closed course while an examiner watches. The test checks your ability to start the bike, control it at low speeds, brake smoothly, and handle turns. You must use a motorcycle that is street-legal and registered. The test usually takes 15 to 20 minutes, and you pass or fail on the spot. If you fail, you can retake it after a waiting period.

What to bring to the DMV

When you go to the DMV to take the written test or submit your course certificate, bring your current driver's license, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or state ID number. Proof of residency can be a recent utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and address. Some states also ask for proof of insurance, so check your state's DMV website before you go.

If you are taking the riding test at the DMV, you will also need to bring a street-legal motorcycle with current registration and insurance. Wear protective gear—most states require a helmet, and many examiners will not let you test without long pants, closed-toe shoes, and a jacket. Bring your course certificate if you completed a safety course instead of taking the riding test.

Timeline and fees

The entire process usually takes two to four weeks from start to finish, though it can be faster if you already know how to ride. You can take the written test at your next DMV visit, which might be the same day you explore. If you choose a safety course, you can often find one starting within a week or two, and the course itself takes one to three days. After you pass the written test or complete the course, the DMV adds the endorsement to your license on the spot or mails it to you within a few days.

Costs vary by state but typically total $100 to $350. The written test fee is usually $10 to $25, the riding test fee (if you take one) is $20 to $50, and a safety course is $150 to $300. Some states charge an endorsement fee of $5 to $15 when you add it to your license. A few states offer fee waivers or discounts for completing a safety course, so check your state's DMV website.

What happens if you fail

If you fail the written test, you can retake it after a waiting period—usually three to seven days. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it, though you will pay the test fee each time. Most people pass on the second attempt after studying the material more carefully.

If you fail the riding test, you can retake it after a waiting period, usually one to two weeks. Some states let you retake it the next day if you pay an additional fee. If you fail the riding test twice, some states require you to complete a safety course before you can test again. If you fail a safety course, the course provider will tell you whether you can retake it or must wait before enrolling again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ride a motorcycle before I get the endorsement?

No. Riding without the endorsement is illegal and can result in a ticket, fine, or license suspension. You must have the endorsement on your license before you operate a motorcycle on public roads, even if you are an experienced rider.

Do I need to own a motorcycle to take the riding test?

No. If you take the DMV riding test, you can use a borrowed or rented motorcycle as long as it is street-legal and registered. If you take a safety course, the course usually provides a motorcycle for you to use during training.

Can I add the endorsement if I have a suspended or revoked license?

No. Your driver's license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended or revoked, you must resolve that issue first before you can add an endorsement.

How long does the endorsement last?

The motorcycle endorsement stays on your license for as long as your driver's license is valid. When you renew your license, the endorsement renews with it. You do not need to retake the test or repeat the course.

What if I move to a different state?

When you get a license in a new state, the endorsement does not automatically transfer. You will need to pass that state's written test and either take its riding test or complete a course approved in that state. Some states recognize out-of-state safety course certificates, so check the new state's DMV website.