How to Get Your Motorcycle Endorsement in Washington State

Getting a Motorcycle Endorsement in Washington

A motorcycle endorsement in Washington is an addition to your driver's license that lets you legally ride a motorcycle on public roads. You get it by passing a written test on motorcycle safety and rules, then passing a riding skills test on an actual motorcycle. Washington does not require a separate motorcycle license — the endorsement straightforward adds the permission to your existing driver's license.

The process takes at least a few days and involves the Department of Licensing (DOL). You can take the riding test through the Motorcycle Safety Program (MSP), which is the fastest route because passing their course waives the DOL riding exam. Without the course, you must schedule a separate riding test at a DOL office, which can take weeks depending on availability.

Key Takeaways

You must be at least 16 years old and hold a valid Washington driver's license or instruction permit to get a motorcycle endorsement.
The Motorcycle Safety Program offers a two-day course that teaches riding skills and waives the DOL riding test, making it the fastest path for most riders.
If you skip the MSP course, you must pass the DOL written test first, then schedule a separate riding exam at a licensing office.
The written test covers Washington motorcycle laws, hazard recognition, and safe riding practices — you can study using the free online manual at dol.wa.gov.
The riding test evaluates basic control, turning, braking, and obstacle avoidance on a closed course with an examiner present.

Check Your Age and License Status First

You must be at least 16 years old to get a motorcycle endorsement in Washington. You also need either a valid driver's license or an instruction permit — you cannot get an endorsement without one of these. If you do not yet have a license, you will need to complete that process first through your local DOL office.

If your license is expired, suspended, or revoked, you cannot add an endorsement until your status is restored. Check your current license status on the DOL website or by calling your local licensing office before you begin.

Take the Motorcycle Safety Program Course

The Motorcycle Safety Program (MSP) is run by the Washington State Department of Transportation and offered through approved training providers across the state. The course is two days long, usually held on weekends, and covers both classroom instruction and hands-on riding practice. You ride a small motorcycle provided by the course — you do not need to own one or bring your own.

Passing the MSP course waives the DOL riding test entirely. You still must pass the DOL written test, but you can do that when ready after the course or at any point afterward. The course costs money (fees vary by provider, typically between $150 and $250), but it saves you weeks of waiting for a DOL riding exam appointment and gives you real instruction from experienced riders.

To find an MSP provider near you, visit the Washington State Department of Transportation website and search for approved instructors by county. You register directly with the provider, not through DOL. Bring your driver's license or instruction permit to the first day of class.

Pass the Written Test at the DOL

The written test covers Washington motorcycle laws, safe riding practices, hazard recognition, and vehicle control. It is 25 multiple-choice questions, and you must answer at least 20 correctly to pass. You take it at any DOL office that offers licensing services.

Study using the free Motorcycle Operator Manual, available as a PDF on the DOL website at dol.wa.gov. The manual covers everything on the test. You can also study the questions in the online practice test, which shows you the exact format and types of questions you will see. Most people spend 3 to 5 hours studying before taking the test.

Schedule your test appointment online through the DOL website or by calling your local licensing office. You will need your driver's license or instruction permit and proof of your Social Security number. The test takes about 15 minutes. You get your results when ready, and if you pass, the endorsement is added to your license on the spot.

Take the DOL Riding Test (If You Did Not Take MSP)

If you did not take the Motorcycle Safety Program course, you must pass a riding test administered by a DOL examiner. The test takes place on a closed course at a DOL office and lasts about 15 minutes. You ride a motorcycle provided by DOL (usually a small standard bike), and the examiner watches you perform basic maneuvers: starting, stopping, turning, swerving, and figure-eight patterns.

You must bring your own helmet and protective gear (jacket, gloves, long pants, closed-toe boots). The examiner is looking for smooth control, safe braking, proper turning technique, and awareness of the bike's position. You pass or fail based on whether you can handle the motorcycle safely at low speeds.

Schedule the riding test through your local DOL office. Wait times vary widely — some offices have appointments within a week, others may take several weeks. You must pass the written test before you can schedule the riding test. Bring your driver's license, proof of Social Security number, and your helmet.

What Happens After You Pass

Once you pass both the written test and the riding test (or the MSP course), the motorcycle endorsement is added to your license. You receive an updated license in the mail within a few weeks. Until it arrives, your old license with the examiner's stamp serves as proof that you have the endorsement.

The endorsement allows you to ride any motorcycle on Washington public roads. You still must follow all traffic laws, wear a helmet (required by Washington law), and carry proof of insurance. Your motorcycle must be registered with the Department of Licensing and pass a safety inspection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the MSP course if I have never ridden a motorcycle before?

Yes. The MSP course is designed for beginners and teaches you how to ride from the ground up. You do not need any prior experience. The course covers everything from how to mount the bike to emergency braking, and instructors work with riders at all levels.

What if I fail the written test or riding test?

You can retake either test. There is no waiting period between attempts, though you may need to schedule a new appointment. Most people pass on the second try after studying the manual more carefully or practicing the riding maneuvers. You pay the test fee again each time you retake it.

Do I need to own a motorcycle to get the endorsement?

No. You can take the MSP course on their bikes and pass the riding test on a DOL-provided motorcycle. Once you have the endorsement, you can then buy a motorcycle or borrow one to ride. You do not need to own one before you test.

How long does the whole process take?

With the MSP course, you can finish in as little as two to three weeks: take the course one weekend, pass the written test the next week, and receive your updated license in the mail. Without the course, it depends on DOL riding test availability in your area — anywhere from two weeks to two months.

Is the motorcycle endorsement valid in other states?

Yes. A Washington motorcycle endorsement is recognized in all other states. If you move or travel, your endorsement travels with you. Some states may have different rules about helmet use or other regulations, but your license itself is valid everywhere.

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.