What You Need to Do to Get a Texas Motorcycle License
A Texas motorcycle license is an endorsement added to your driver's license, not a separate document. You get it by passing a written test on motorcycle laws and a riding skills test, or by taking an approved motorcycle safety course that waives the riding test. The whole process takes a few hours to a few days depending on which route you choose, and costs between $20 and $40 in state fees, plus course fees if you go that direction.
You must be at least 16 years old and already have a valid Texas driver's license or learner's permit. If you are under 18, you will need parental consent and must complete a motorcycle safety course — the riding test alone is not an option for you.
Key Takeaways
- Texas offers two paths to a motorcycle endorsement: pass the written and riding tests at the Department of Public Safety, or complete an approved motorcycle safety course that skips the riding test.
- If you are under 18, you must take a safety course and have a parent or guardian sign your process.
- The written test covers Texas motorcycle laws, road signs, and safe riding practices; you can study using the free Texas Motorcycle Operator Manual.
- The riding test evaluates your ability to control the motorcycle at low and high speeds, so practice on the actual bike you will use for the test.
- An approved safety course costs $150 to $300 but saves you the riding test and often qualifies you for insurance discounts.
Taking the Written and Riding Tests at the DPS
If you are 18 or older and want to skip the safety course, you can go directly to a Texas Department of Public Safety office to take both tests. First, you will take a written exam on a computer that covers motorcycle operation, Texas traffic laws, and hazard recognition. The test has 25 questions, and you need to answer at least 20 correctly to pass. You can study for free using the Texas Motorcycle Operator Manual, available on the DPS website.
After you pass the written test, you will schedule a riding test at the same office or a nearby location. Bring your own motorcycle or borrow one — the DPS does not provide bikes. The test lasts about 10 minutes and includes exercises like figure-eights, quick stops, and swerving to check your control and balance. You must wear a helmet, eye protection, and long pants and sleeves. If you fail either test, you can retake it, though you may have to pay the fee again depending on the office.
The written test fee is $20. The riding test fee is $20. You will also pay a $20 endorsement fee when you pass both tests and the DPS adds the motorcycle endorsement to your license.
Completing an Approved Motorcycle Safety Course
Taking a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course or a Texas-approved equivalent is often faster and easier than the DPS route, especially if you are nervous about the riding test. These courses are offered by private instructors and riding schools across Texas. A typical course runs 4 to 8 hours over one or two days and includes classroom instruction on motorcycle laws and safe riding, plus hands-on riding practice on a closed course.
The main advantage is that you skip the DPS riding test entirely. Once you finish the course, the instructor gives you a completion certificate. You take that certificate to any DPS office, pay the $20 endorsement fee, and the motorcycle endorsement is added to your license on the spot. Many insurance companies also offer discounts if you have completed an approved safety course, which can pay back the course fee within a year or two.
Approved courses cost between $150 and $300 depending on the provider and location. Search for "MSF course near me" or check the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation website for a list of certified instructors. Some courses provide motorcycles for the riding portion; others require you to bring your own. Ask before you register.
What to Bring to the DPS Office
Bring your current Texas driver's license or learner's permit, proof of Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of residency dated within the last 30 days (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and address). If you are under 18, bring a parent or guardian with you to sign the process in person.
If you are taking the riding test, also bring your motorcycle, helmet, eye protection, and appropriate clothing. The DPS will not let you test without a helmet, and you must wear long pants and sleeves. If you are taking a safety course instead, check with the course provider about what to bring — most supply helmets and protective gear, but some ask you to bring your own.
Preparing for the Written Test
The Texas Motorcycle Operator Manual covers everything on the written test. read it free from the DPS website or pick up a printed copy at any DPS office. Read through it once, then focus on the sections on motorcycle-specific rules: how to start and stop safely, how to lean into turns, what to do if your brakes fail, and how to spot hazards. The test also includes standard road signs and traffic laws, so if you already have a driver's license, much of it will be familiar.
Take practice tests online — several free sites offer Texas motorcycle test questions. Aim to score at least 85 percent on practice tests before you go to the DPS. The written test is computer-based and you get your score when ready. If you pass, you move on to schedule the riding test (or you are done if you took a safety course). If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back another time.
Preparing for the Riding Test
The riding test is short but demanding. You will be asked to perform slow-speed maneuvers like figure-eights and tight circles, then accelerate and brake smoothly, then swerve to avoid an obstacle. The examiner is watching for smooth throttle control, proper braking, balance, and awareness of your surroundings. Panic stops and jerky movements are common reasons people fail.
Practice on the exact motorcycle you plan to use for the test. Spend at least 10 to 20 hours riding in a parking lot or quiet area before you attempt the test. Focus on slow-speed control — that is where most people struggle. Practice figure-eights at walking speed, emergency stops from 20 miles per hour, and smooth acceleration. If you are not confident after that practice, take a safety course instead; the instructors will teach you the specific skills the test measures.
On test day, arrive early, wear all required protective gear, and do a quick safety check of your bike: brakes, tires, lights, and mirrors. Take a few minutes to ride around the test area to get comfortable with the space. Stay calm during the test — examiners expect some nervousness, and a few small mistakes will not fail you. Major issues are loss of control, dropping the bike, or failing to follow instructions.
After You Pass: Adding the Endorsement to Your License
Once you pass both the written and riding tests (or complete a safety course), return to the DPS office with your test completion paperwork or course certificate. Pay the $20 endorsement fee. The DPS will update your license on the spot or mail you a new one with the motorcycle endorsement within a few days. Your endorsement is marked with an "M" on your license.
You are now legal to ride a motorcycle on Texas roads. Check your insurance — if you do not already have a motorcycle policy, contact your insurance company or shop for a new one. Riders under 21 are required to wear a helmet at all times. Riders 21 and older can ride without a helmet if they have completed a safety course or have proof of insurance, though helmets are always safer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a motorcycle endorsement if I do not have a driver's license yet?
No. You must have a valid Texas driver's license or learner's permit before you can add a motorcycle endorsement. If you do not have a license, get one first by passing the written and driving tests at the DPS.
What if I fail the riding test?
You can retake it. Some DPS offices let you retake it the same day for another $20 fee; others require you to schedule a new appointment. Call your local DPS office to ask their policy. Many people who fail the riding test then take a safety course, which skips the test entirely.
Do I need a motorcycle endorsement to ride a moped or scooter?
It depends on engine size. In Texas, you need a motorcycle endorsement only if the bike has an engine larger than 50 cubic centimeters. Smaller scooters and mopeds do not require an endorsement, though you still need a valid driver's license.
How long does the motorcycle endorsement last?
Your motorcycle endorsement is valid as long as your driver's license is valid. When you renew your driver's license, the endorsement renews with it at no extra cost.
Will a safety course really save me money on insurance?
Most insurance companies offer a discount of 5 to 15 percent if you have completed an approved motorcycle safety course. The discount varies by company and policy, so ask your insurer what they offer. For many riders, the discount pays back the course cost within the first year.