What You Need to Do to Ride a Motorcycle Legally in Washington

In Washington State, you cannot legally ride a motorcycle on public roads without an M endorsement on your driver's license. The endorsement is an add-on to your existing license — you do not need a separate license. To get it, you must pass a written test about motorcycle safety and rules, then pass a riding skills test that shows you can control a motorcycle. Washington offers two paths: take an approved motorcycle safety course (which waives the riding test), or take both tests through the Department of Licensing.

The entire process typically takes a few weeks if you go the course route, or several weeks if you test directly with the state. The course is faster and cheaper overall because you avoid the riding test fee and do not have to schedule a separate appointment at a licensing office.

Key Takeaways

  • Washington requires an M endorsement to ride any motorcycle on public roads, and you add it to your current driver's license rather than getting a new one.
  • The fastest route is an approved Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course, which costs $200 to $300 and includes both classroom and hands-on riding instruction.
  • If you skip the course, you must pass the written test at a Department of Licensing office, then schedule a separate riding test with an examiner.
  • You must be at least 16 years old and hold a valid Washington driver's license or instruction permit before you can take the written test.
  • After passing the test or course, you pay a $20 endorsement fee at the licensing office and receive your updated license in the mail within two weeks.

The Motorcycle Safety Course Route (Fastest Option)

Taking an approved motorcycle safety course is the quickest and most practical path for most people. Washington recognizes courses taught by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) and other state-approved providers. These courses run two to three days — usually a weekend — and include classroom time, helmet and protective gear, and hands-on riding on a closed course with instructor-provided motorcycles.

The course costs between $200 and $300 depending on the provider. When you finish and pass, the instructor gives you a completion certificate. You take that certificate to any Department of Licensing office, pay the $20 endorsement fee, and your M endorsement is added to your license. You do not take a separate written or riding test because the course covers both.

To find an approved course near you, visit the Washington State Department of Licensing website and search their list of certified motorcycle safety instructors and schools. Most courses fill up weeks in advance, especially in spring and summer, so register early.

Testing Without a Course (Longer Route)

If you do not take a safety course, you must pass two separate tests through the Department of Licensing: a written test and a riding skills test. You can take the written test at any licensing office. It covers Washington motorcycle laws, safe riding practices, and hazard recognition — similar to the knowledge section of the MSF course. You must score at least 80 percent to pass.

After you pass the written test, you schedule a separate appointment for the riding test. An examiner watches you perform specific maneuvers on a motorcycle you provide (or sometimes a state-provided one, depending on the office). The test includes starting, stopping, turning, and emergency braking. You must demonstrate control and safe technique. If you fail, you can retake it, but each attempt requires a new appointment and fee.

This route takes longer because you are scheduling two separate appointments and waiting for openings at your local licensing office. The riding test appointment can have a wait of several weeks during busy seasons.

Age and License Requirements Before You Start

You must be at least 16 years old to take the written test for an M endorsement in Washington. You must also already hold a valid Washington driver's license or an instruction permit. If you do not yet have a driver's license, you need to get one first through the standard licensing process.

If you are under 18, you may face additional restrictions. Washington allows riders under 18 to get an M endorsement, but some insurance companies charge higher premiums for young riders, and some policies have restrictions on engine size or riding at night. Check with your insurance before you ride.

What to Bring to the Licensing Office

When you go to add your M endorsement, bring your current Washington driver's license or instruction permit, proof of your course completion (if you took the course route), and payment for the $20 endorsement fee. If you are testing without a course, bring your license and be ready to pay the test fee, which varies by office but is typically $15 to $25 for the written test and $25 to $35 for the riding test.

Some offices accept payment by card or check; others are cash-only. Call ahead to confirm what your local office accepts and whether you need an appointment or can walk in. During peak times (spring and summer), walk-ins may face long waits.

Timeline and What Happens After You Pass

If you take the course route, you can complete it in one weekend and have your certificate the same day. You then go to a licensing office at your convenience — no appointment needed for endorsement additions — pay the fee, and submit your paperwork. Your updated license arrives in the mail within 10 to 14 days.

If you test directly, the written test is when ready — you get your result on the spot. The riding test is scheduled separately and may not be available for several weeks. Once you pass both, you go to the licensing office, pay the fee, and wait for your updated license in the mail.

During the wait for your new license, you can ride legally if you have a receipt or confirmation from the licensing office showing your endorsement has been added. Keep that receipt with you when you ride.

Motorcycle Insurance and Registration

Once you have your M endorsement, you must register your motorcycle with Washington and carry motorcycle insurance. You cannot legally ride without both. Insurance costs vary widely based on the bike, your age, your riding history, and the coverage level you choose. Liability-only policies are cheaper than comprehensive or collision coverage. Get quotes from several insurers before you buy a motorcycle.

Registration happens at your local Department of Licensing office or online through their website. You will need proof of ownership (title or bill of sale), proof of insurance, and payment of the registration fee, which depends on the motorcycle's value and weight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ride a motorcycle with just a regular driver's license?

No. In Washington, you must have the M endorsement on your license to legally ride any motorcycle on public roads. Riding without it is a traffic violation and can result in a fine and impound of your motorcycle.

What if I fail the riding test?

You can retake it. There is no limit on attempts, but each attempt requires a new appointment and fee. Many people pass on the second try after practicing more. If you took a course, you already passed the riding portion, so you do not face this risk.

Do I need to take a new test if I move to Washington from another state?

If you already have a motorcycle endorsement from another state, Washington will recognize it and transfer it to your Washington license without a new test. Bring your out-of-state license to a Department of Licensing office and pay the endorsement fee.

Can I take the motorcycle course if I do not own a motorcycle yet?

Yes. The MSF course and most approved courses provide motorcycles for students to use during the class. You do not need to own a bike to take the course or pass the test.

How much does the whole process cost?

The course route costs $200 to $300 for the course plus $20 for the endorsement fee, totaling roughly $220 to $320. The test route costs $15 to $25 for the written test, $25 to $35 for the riding test, and $20 for the endorsement fee, totaling roughly $60 to $80 — but takes longer because of scheduling delays.