How to Get Your Motorcycle License in New Jersey

New Jersey requires a written test, a riding skills test, and a separate motorcycle endorsement on your driver's license

You cannot ride a motorcycle legally in New Jersey with just a regular driver's license. You need a motorcycle endorsement, which is a separate credential added to your existing license. The process involves passing a knowledge test about motorcycle-specific rules, passing a hands-on riding test, and paying a fee. You can complete this at any New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) office.

The timeline depends on how you prepare. If you take the Motorcycle Safety Institute (MSI) course — which New Jersey recognizes — you can skip the riding test and go straight to the MVC office to add the endorsement. Without the course, you must pass both tests at the MVC, which typically means scheduling two separate visits.

Key Takeaways

New Jersey requires a motorcycle endorsement on your driver's license, obtained through the Motor Vehicle Commission.
Taking an MSI-approved motorcycle safety course lets you skip the riding test and go directly to the MVC to add the endorsement.
Without the course, you must pass a written test and a riding test at the MVC, both scheduled separately.
You need a valid driver's license, proof of identity, and proof of Social Security number before you visit the MVC.
The motorcycle endorsement fee is $10 and is added to your existing license; you do not get a separate card.

The two paths: MSI course or MVC testing

New Jersey recognizes the Motorcycle Safety Institute course as a way to prove you can ride safely. If you complete an MSI-approved course, you receive a completion certificate that you bring to the MVC. The MVC then adds the motorcycle endorsement to your license without requiring you to take the riding test. This path is faster and avoids the scheduling complexity of two separate MVC visits.

If you do not take the MSI course, you must pass both a written test and a riding test at the MVC. The written test covers New Jersey motorcycle laws, safe riding practices, and hazard recognition. The riding test happens on an MVC course with an examiner watching you perform specific maneuvers. You schedule these tests separately, and you must pass the written test before you can schedule the riding test.

Many riders choose the MSI course because it teaches you to ride before you test, and the course itself counts as your proof of competency. The course typically takes one or two days and costs between $150 and $300, depending on the provider. You can find MSI-approved courses through the New Jersey MVC website or by searching for "MSI motorcycle course near me."

What you need to bring to the MVC

Bring your valid New Jersey driver's license or a valid out-of-state driver's license if you are new to New Jersey. You also need proof of your Social Security number — a Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form all work. Bring a second form of identification with your photo, such as a passport, military ID, or state ID card.

If you completed an MSI course, bring your completion certificate. If you are taking the written test at the MVC, bring nothing extra — the test is administered on a computer at the office. If you are taking the riding test, bring a street-legal motorcycle or arrange to use one at the MVC (some offices have loaner bikes, but availability varies by location).

Wear appropriate riding gear for the riding test: a helmet, long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and closed-toe shoes. The MVC will not let you test without a helmet, and examiners expect you to dress as you would for real riding.

Taking the written test at the MVC

The written test has 50 questions and covers New Jersey motorcycle laws, road signs, safe riding techniques, and hazard awareness. You need a score of 80 percent or higher to pass, which means you can miss no more than 10 questions. The test is taken on a computer at the MVC office and takes about 30 to 45 minutes.

Study materials are free on the New Jersey MVC website — the motorcycle manual is available as a PDF read. The manual covers everything the test asks about. Many people study it for a few days before the test and pass on their first try. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day or schedule another visit.

Scheduling and taking the riding test

After you pass the written test, you can schedule the riding test. The riding test is not available at every MVC office — only certain locations have the course and examiners. The MVC website lists which offices offer the riding test and their current wait times. Wait times vary from a few days to several weeks depending on the location and season.

The riding test lasts about 15 to 20 minutes. You perform maneuvers on a closed course: figure-eights, quick stops, swerves, and turns at different speeds. The examiner watches for smooth throttle control, proper braking, balance, and awareness. You do not ride on public roads. If you fail, you can retake it, but you must schedule a new appointment.

Bring the motorcycle you will use for the test. It must be street-legal, registered, and insured in New Jersey. The bike must have working lights, mirrors, brakes, and a horn. Some MVC offices allow you to use a loaner motorcycle, but you must call ahead to confirm availability and reserve one.

Adding the endorsement after you pass

Once you pass the riding test (or submit your MSI certificate), you return to the MVC office to add the endorsement to your license. Bring your driver's license and pay the $10 endorsement fee. The MVC updates your license on the spot — you do not receive a new card in the mail. Your existing license now shows the motorcycle endorsement, usually marked as an "M" restriction code.

The endorsement is permanent and does not expire. You can ride a motorcycle in New Jersey and in any other state that recognizes New Jersey licenses. If you renew your driver's license later, the endorsement carries over automatically.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the riding test on a motorcycle I do not own?

Yes. You can borrow a motorcycle from a friend or family member as long as it is registered and insured in New Jersey and passes the safety inspection. Some MVC offices have loaner motorcycles available, but you must call ahead to reserve one. The bike must have working brakes, lights, mirrors, and a horn.

What if I fail the riding test?

You can retake it by scheduling another appointment at the MVC. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test, but you must pay the test fee each time. Many people pass on the second or third attempt after more practice.

Do I need a motorcycle endorsement if I only ride on private property?

New Jersey law requires the endorsement only for riding on public roads. If you ride only on private land with the owner's permission, you do not need the endorsement. However, if you ever ride on any public street, parking lot, or highway, you must have it.

How long does the MSI course take?

Most MSI courses take one full day (six to eight hours) or two half-days. Some providers offer weekend courses. After you finish, you receive a completion certificate that you bring to the MVC to add the endorsement without taking the riding test.

Can I get a motorcycle endorsement if I have an out-of-state driver's license?

Yes. Bring your valid out-of-state license, proof of Social Security number, and a second form of photo ID to the MVC. You follow the same process as New Jersey residents — either take the MSI course or pass the written and riding tests.

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.