Missouri requires a separate motorcycle endorsement on your driver's license, not a standalone license
You cannot get a motorcycle-only license in Missouri. Instead, you add a motorcycle endorsement to an existing driver's license through the Missouri Department of Revenue. The endorsement is marked as an "M" restriction on your license and allows you to legally operate motorcycles on public roads.
You have two paths: pass the Missouri Motorcycle Safety Course and waive the riding test, or take the written test and riding test at a Missouri license office without the course. Most riders choose the course route because it's shorter, teaches practical skills, and many insurance companies offer discounts for completion.
Key Takeaways
- Missouri adds a motorcycle endorsement to your existing driver's license rather than issuing a separate motorcycle license.
- You can get the endorsement by completing an approved motorcycle safety course, which waives the riding test at the license office.
- Without the course, you must pass both a written test and a riding test at a Missouri license office, which takes longer and requires you to provide your own motorcycle.
- The course typically costs between $150 and $250 and takes one to two days to complete.
- You must be at least 16 years old and hold a valid Missouri driver's license or learner's permit before you can get a motorcycle endorsement.
The motorcycle safety course route (fastest path)
The Missouri Motorcycle Safety Course is run through the Motorcycle Safety Foundation and offered by approved training providers across the state. The course teaches classroom instruction, hands-on riding skills, and safety practices over one or two days, depending on the provider. At the end, you receive a completion certificate.
After you finish the course, take your completion certificate to any Missouri license office. You do not need to take the riding test—the certificate waives it. You will still take a short written test about Missouri motorcycle laws at the office, but this is simpler than the full written exam. Pay the endorsement fee (currently $10.50) and your license will be updated with the "M" restriction within a few minutes.
To find an approved course provider, visit the Missouri Department of Revenue website and search their list of certified instructors. Courses fill up, especially in spring and summer, so register early. Most providers require you to bring your own helmet and protective gear, though some loan equipment.
The written and riding test route (without the course)
If you skip the safety course, you must pass both a written test and a riding test at a Missouri license office. The written test covers Missouri motorcycle laws, road signs, and safe riding practices. You take it on a computer at the office and must score at least 80 percent to pass.
The riding test happens in a closed course at the license office. You must provide your own motorcycle or borrow one that meets Missouri's requirements—it must be street-legal, registered, and insured. The examiner watches you perform basic maneuvers: starting, stopping, turning, and emergency braking. The test takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
This route is free except for the endorsement fee, but it requires you to own or borrow a motorcycle and schedule two separate visits to the license office (one for the written test, one for the riding test, though some offices may allow both on the same day). Many riders find this more stressful than the structured course environment.
Age requirements and what you need to bring
You must be at least 16 years old to get a motorcycle endorsement in Missouri. If you are 16 or 17, you also need written consent from a parent or guardian. Bring your valid Missouri driver's license or learner's permit to the license office.
If you are taking the safety course, bring your course completion certificate, a valid photo ID, and your current driver's license or learner's permit. If you are taking the written and riding tests without the course, bring your driver's license or learner's permit, proof of insurance for the motorcycle you will use on the test, and the motorcycle's registration.
How long the process takes
With the safety course, the entire process takes one to two days for the course itself, plus a few hours at the license office to take the written test and update your license. Most people complete everything within a week.
Without the course, you need at least two visits to the license office—one for the written test and one for the riding test. Some offices schedule these on the same day, but you may need to return on different days depending on availability. The written test is usually available within a few days of scheduling, but the riding test may have a longer wait, especially during busy seasons.
Insurance and registration for your motorcycle
You must have motorcycle insurance before you ride on public roads in Missouri, even with a valid endorsement. Insurance is required by state law. Contact an insurance company that writes motorcycle policies and provide them with your motorcycle's vehicle identification number (VIN) and details. Rates vary widely based on the bike, your age, and your driving history.
You also need to register your motorcycle with the Missouri Department of Revenue. Registration is separate from your license endorsement. You can register at any license office or online through the Missouri Department of Revenue website. Bring proof of ownership (the title or bill of sale), proof of insurance, and identification. Registration fees depend on the motorcycle's weight and age.
What happens if you fail the test
If you fail the written test at the license office, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment within a few days. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the written test, though you pay the endorsement fee each time you test.
If you fail the riding test, you must schedule another appointment. You can retake it as many times as needed. If you took the safety course and passed it, you do not have to retake the course—the certificate remains valid. You only need to pass the riding test on your next attempt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a motorcycle endorsement if I have a learner's permit instead of a full driver's license?
Yes. You can get a motorcycle endorsement with a valid Missouri learner's permit. However, the endorsement restrictions will match your permit restrictions—for example, if your permit requires a supervising driver, that requirement applies to your motorcycle riding as well until you upgrade to a full license.
Do I need to take the motorcycle safety course, or can I just take the tests?
The course is optional. You can take the written and riding tests without it. However, the course waives the riding test and is often faster overall. Many insurance companies also offer discounts for course completion, which can offset the course cost within a year.
What if I already have a motorcycle endorsement from another state?
Missouri recognizes out-of-state motorcycle endorsements. You can transfer your endorsement to a Missouri license by visiting a license office with your current license and paying the endorsement fee. You do not need to retake any tests.
Can I ride a motorcycle with just a regular driver's license?
No. Operating a motorcycle without the "M" endorsement on your license is illegal in Missouri, even if you own the motorcycle and have insurance. You can face fines and other penalties. You must have the endorsement before you ride on public roads.
How much does the motorcycle endorsement cost?
The endorsement fee is currently $10.50 at the license office. The safety course costs between $150 and $250 depending on the provider. If you take the written and riding tests without the course, you only pay the $10.50 endorsement fee, but you must provide your own motorcycle for the riding test.