How to Get a Motorcycle Endorsement on Your Colorado Driver's License

What a Colorado Motorcycle Endorsement Is and Who Needs One

A motorcycle endorsement is an addition to your Colorado driver's license that permits you to operate a motorcycle, moped, or motorized bicycle on public roads. Without it, riding a motorcycle is illegal in Colorado, even if you hold a valid driver's license for cars. The endorsement is denoted as an "M" on your license.

You need a motorcycle endorsement if you plan to ride any two-wheeled motorized vehicle with an engine larger than 50 cubic centimeters. Mopeds with engines 50cc or smaller may have different rules depending on your age, but most riders pursue the full endorsement to avoid restrictions.

Colorado does not require you to hold a commercial driver's license (CDL) to get a motorcycle endorsement. The motorcycle endorsement is separate and can be added to a standard Class D (passenger vehicle) license or to a CDL if you hold one.

Key Takeaways

You must pass a written motorcycle knowledge test and a riding skills test at a Colorado DMV office to earn the endorsement.
The Colorado Motorcycle Safety Program offers an alternative skills test that waives the DMV riding exam if you complete their course.
You must be at least 16 years old and hold a valid Colorado driver's license before you can test for the endorsement.
The endorsement fee is a one-time charge added to your license renewal or replacement, and you do not pay separately for the endorsement itself.
You must wear a DOT-approved helmet and eye protection when riding; Colorado law does not allow helmet exemptions for any rider.

Age Requirements and License Prerequisites

You must be at least 16 years old to obtain a motorcycle endorsement in Colorado. You must also hold a valid, non-suspended Colorado driver's license before you can take either the knowledge test or the skills test. If your license is expired, suspended, or revoked, the DMV will not allow you to test.

If you are under 18, you are subject to Colorado's graduated driver licensing (GDL) rules. This means your motorcycle endorsement will carry the same restrictions as your Class D license—for example, limited nighttime driving and passenger restrictions during the first year. The motorcycle endorsement itself does not override GDL restrictions.

Applicants who are 18 or older face no age-related restrictions on the endorsement beyond the 16-year minimum.

The Two Routes to Earn Your Endorsement: DMV Testing or Safety Course

Colorado offers two paths to the motorcycle endorsement. The first is to pass both a written test and a riding skills test at a DMV office. The second is to complete an approved motorcycle safety course, which waives the DMV riding test but still requires you to pass the written knowledge test.

The DMV testing route requires you to schedule an appointment at a Colorado DMV office. You will take a 25-question written test covering motorcycle operation, hazard recognition, and Colorado traffic law. You must score at least 80 percent to pass. If you pass the written test, you then take a riding skills test on a closed course at the DMV, using either your own motorcycle or a DMV-provided bike. The riding test evaluates your ability to control the motorcycle, brake, turn, and navigate obstacles.

The Colorado Motorcycle Safety Program (CMSP) route is often faster and less stressful for new riders. You enroll in a CMSP-approved course, which typically runs 8 to 16 hours over one or two days. The course includes classroom instruction and hands-on riding practice. Upon completion, you receive a course completion certificate that you bring to the DMV. You still must pass the 25-question written test, but you do not take the DMV riding skills test. Many riders choose this route because the course provides professional instruction and the certificate counts as proof of riding competency.

Documents and Fees You Will Need

When you arrive at the DMV to test or to submit your CMSP certificate, bring the following:

Your valid Colorado driver's license (original, not a copy).
Proof of Colorado residency if your license does not show your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days).
Your Social Security number or ITIN.
If using the CMSP route, your course completion certificate from an approved provider.

The endorsement fee is included in your license renewal or replacement fee; Colorado does not charge a separate endorsement fee. If you are adding the endorsement to a license that is not expiring soon, you may be charged a replacement fee (typically $20 to $30) to reissue your license with the new endorsement. Exact fees vary by DMV office and whether you are renewing or replacing your license.

You do not need to bring your own motorcycle to the DMV if you choose the DMV riding test route. The DMV provides a motorcycle for the skills exam, though some offices allow you to use your own bike if it meets safety standards and is properly registered and insured.

Step-by-Step Process for the DMV Testing Route

Step 1: Schedule a DMV appointment. Visit the Colorado DMV website or call your local office to book a time slot for motorcycle endorsement testing. Some offices accept walk-ins, but appointments are strongly recommended to avoid long waits.

Step 2: Arrive with required documents. Bring your valid driver's license, proof of residency if needed, and your Social Security number. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early.

Step 3: Take the written knowledge test. You will answer 25 questions on a computer or paper form. You have 30 minutes. You must score 80 percent or higher (20 out of 25 correct) to pass. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day or schedule another appointment.

Step 4: Take the riding skills test. If you pass the written test, you move to the riding portion. The examiner will observe you perform specific maneuvers: starting, stopping, turning, swerving, and braking. The test takes about 15 to 20 minutes. You must demonstrate safe control and proper technique. If you fail, you can retake it, though you may need to schedule a separate appointment.

Step 5: Pay the fee and receive your new license. Once you pass both tests, you pay the replacement fee (if applicable) and receive a new license with the "M" endorsement printed on it. This usually happens the same day.

Step-by-Step Process for the CMSP Safety Course Route

Step 1: Enroll in a CMSP-approved course. Search the Colorado DMV website for approved providers in your area. Courses are offered year-round by community colleges, motorcycle shops, and independent instructors. Typical costs range from $150 to $300, depending on the provider. Register online or by phone and choose your course dates.

Step 2: Complete the course. Attend all classroom and riding sessions. Courses typically run 8 to 16 hours. You will learn motorcycle controls, hazard awareness, braking and turning techniques, and Colorado traffic laws. You will ride a motorcycle provided by the course (usually a small, beginner-friendly bike). You must pass a riding skills evaluation at the end of the course to receive your completion certificate.

Step 3: Visit the DMV with your certificate. Bring your course completion certificate, valid driver's license, and proof of residency to a Colorado DMV office. You do not need an appointment for this step, but one is recommended.

Step 4: Take the written knowledge test. You will still take the 25-question written test, even with the CMSP certificate. You must score 80 percent to pass. The certificate waives only the riding skills test, not the knowledge test.

Step 5: Pay the fee and receive your new license. Once you pass the written test, pay the replacement fee and receive your new license with the "M" endorsement. This usually happens the same day.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

One frequent error is assuming that a motorcycle endorsement from another state transfers automatically to Colorado. It does not. You must test or complete a CMSP course in Colorado to add the endorsement to your Colorado license, even if you hold a valid motorcycle endorsement in another state. Some states have reciprocity agreements with Colorado for certain endorsements, but motorcycle is not one of them.

Another mistake is taking the DMV written test without studying. The test covers specific Colorado traffic laws, motorcycle-specific hazards, and safe riding practices. The DMV publishes a free study guide on its website; use it. Many riders fail the first attempt because they underestimate the test.

A third error is showing up to the DMV riding test without recent riding experience. If you have not ridden in weeks or months, practice before your test date. The examiner is looking for smooth, controlled movements, not perfection, but you must demonstrate basic competency.

Finally, do not assume you can ride without a helmet while you are learning or testing. Colorado requires all riders and passengers to wear a DOT-approved helmet and eye protection at all times, with no exceptions. Wear proper gear during your test and always.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a motorcycle endorsement if my driver's license is suspended or expired?

No. Your Colorado driver's license must be valid and in good standing before you can test for or receive a motorcycle endorsement. If your license is suspended, you must resolve the suspension first. If it is expired, renew it before you pursue the endorsement.

Do I have to use my own motorcycle for the DMV riding test?

No. The DMV provides a motorcycle for the skills test at no extra cost. You may use your own bike if you prefer, but it must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. Many first-time test-takers use the DMV bike to avoid the stress of using their own vehicle.

What happens if I fail the written test or the riding test?

You can retake either test. If you fail the written test, you can often retake it the same day or schedule another appointment. If you fail the riding test, you may need to schedule a separate appointment. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the tests, but you must pay the replacement fee each time you receive a new license.

Does the CMSP course cost extra, or is it included in the endorsement fee?

The CMSP course is separate from the endorsement fee and costs between $150 and $300, depending on the provider. The endorsement fee itself is included in your license replacement cost at the DMV. The course is optional; you can test directly at the DMV instead if you prefer not to pay for the course.

Can I ride a motorcycle with just a learner's permit?

No. You must have a valid, full Colorado driver's license and a motorcycle endorsement to ride legally. A learner's permit does not allow motorcycle operation. Once you have the endorsement, you can ride without restrictions (subject to any GDL rules if you are under 18).

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.