What You Need To Do To Ride a Motorcycle Legally in Michigan
A motorcycle endorsement in Michigan is an addition to your driver's license that permits you to operate a motorcycle on public roads. Without it, riding a motorcycle is illegal even if you hold a regular driver's license. Michigan calls this endorsement an "M" restriction, and you add it through the Secretary of State by passing a written test, a vision screening, and a riding skills test.
You do not need a separate license — the endorsement attaches to your existing Michigan driver's license. The process takes a few hours if you pass on your first attempt, though you may need to return for a second riding test if you do not pass the first time.
Key Takeaways
- Michigan requires a written test on motorcycle rules and safety, a vision screening, and a riding skills test before you can legally ride a motorcycle.
- You can take the written test at any Secretary of State office, but the riding test must be scheduled separately and is administered by a third-party testing vendor.
- Completing a Michigan-approved motorcycle safety course waives both the written test and the riding test, though you still pay the endorsement fee.
- The endorsement fee is a one-time cost added to your license renewal, and you must be at least 16 years old to obtain one.
- If you fail the riding test, you can retake it, but you must wait a set period and may need to pay a retest fee.
The Written Test and Vision Screening
The written test covers Michigan motorcycle laws, safe riding practices, and hazard recognition. You take it at any Secretary of State office during regular business hours — no appointment needed for the written portion. The test has 20 questions, and you must answer at least 16 correctly to pass. You can retake it the same day if you fail, though some offices may ask you to return another time.
Before the written test, you will also complete a vision screening. This is a basic check to may support you can see well enough to operate a motorcycle safely. If you wear corrective lenses, bring them with you. Failing the vision screening means you cannot proceed that day, but you can return once your vision meets the standard.
Bring your current Michigan driver's license and proof of your Social Security number. If you do not have your license with you, bring a state ID or passport. The Secretary of State will not test you without proof of identity.
The Riding Skills Test
The riding test is a separate appointment scheduled through a third-party vendor contracted by Michigan. You cannot take it the same day as your written test. The test evaluates your ability to control the motorcycle, brake safely, turn, and navigate obstacles. It takes place in a closed course, not on public roads, so you are not riding in traffic.
You must bring your own motorcycle or arrange to use one. Some testing vendors rent motorcycles for a fee, but availability varies by location. Call the vendor ahead of time to ask whether they offer rentals and what the cost is. The motorcycle must be street-legal and registered in Michigan, and you must have proof of insurance.
The test itself lasts about 15 to 20 minutes. You will be asked to perform specific maneuvers: starting the engine, riding in a straight line, braking, turning at different speeds, and swerving around obstacles. The examiner watches for smooth control, proper use of brakes and throttle, and awareness of the motorcycle's position. If you fail, you can retake the test after waiting a set period — usually a few days to a week, depending on the vendor.
How To Skip the Written and Riding Tests
Michigan recognizes completion of a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course or an equivalent state-approved motorcycle safety course as proof that you have the knowledge and skills to ride safely. If you complete one of these courses, you do not have to take the written test or the riding test.
The course typically runs two to three days and includes classroom instruction and hands-on riding practice. You ride a small motorcycle provided by the course, so you do not need to own one. The course costs between $150 and $300 depending on the provider. After you finish, the course provider gives you a completion certificate.
Bring that certificate to the Secretary of State along with your driver's license and proof of Social Security number. You will still pay the endorsement fee, but you skip both tests. This route is often faster than scheduling a separate riding test appointment, especially if your local testing vendor has a long wait list.
The Endorsement Fee and Timeline
Michigan charges a fee to add the motorcycle endorsement to your license. The fee is typically $10 to $15 and is added to your license renewal cost. If your license is not due for renewal, you may be able to add the endorsement without renewing the entire license, though some offices charge a small transaction fee for this service. Call your local Secretary of State office to confirm the exact cost.
Once you pass both the written and riding tests (or submit your safety course certificate), the endorsement is added to your license when ready or within a few business days. You receive an updated license in the mail if the office does not print it on site. If you need the endorsement right away, ask whether your office can issue a temporary document while you wait for the new license to arrive.
Age Requirements and Restrictions
You must be at least 16 years old to obtain a motorcycle endorsement in Michigan. If you are under 18, you may face additional restrictions, such as limits on engine size or riding hours, depending on your license class. Check with the Secretary of State about any restrictions that explore to your age.
If you hold a learner's permit rather than a full driver's license, you can still pursue a motorcycle endorsement, but the rules are slightly different. You will need to pass the same tests, and the endorsement will be added to your permit. Once your permit expires or you renew it, the endorsement carries over to your new license.
What To Bring To the Secretary of State
For the written test and vision screening, bring your current Michigan driver's license, state ID, or passport. You also need proof of your Social Security number — a Social Security card, tax return, or W-2 form works. If you are adding the endorsement without renewing your license, bring the same documents.
If you are using a motorcycle safety course certificate to waive the tests, bring the original certificate along with your ID and Social Security proof. The Secretary of State will keep a copy of the certificate in your file.
For the riding test, bring your motorcycle, proof of registration, and proof of insurance. You will also need to show your driver's license or ID to the examiner. If you are renting a motorcycle from the testing vendor, confirm what documents they need from you when you schedule the appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ride a motorcycle with just a regular driver's license?
No. Michigan law requires a motorcycle endorsement on your license to operate any motorcycle on public roads. Riding without the endorsement is illegal and can result in a fine. A regular driver's license does not permit motorcycle operation.
What if I fail the riding test?
You can retake the riding test after waiting a short period, usually a few days to a week. Contact the testing vendor to schedule your next attempt. You may have to pay a retest fee, which varies by vendor. You do not have to retake the written test if you already passed it.
Do I need to own a motorcycle before I take the test?
No. You can rent a motorcycle from the testing vendor or borrow one from someone else, as long as it is street-legal and registered. If you use someone else's motorcycle, bring proof of their insurance. Many safety courses provide motorcycles as part of the training, so that is another option.
How long does the whole process take?
If you pass the written test on your first try and schedule the riding test quickly, you can complete both within a week or two. If you take a safety course instead, the course itself takes two to three days, and you can add the endorsement the same week. Waiting time depends on how busy your local Secretary of State office and testing vendor are.
Can I add a motorcycle endorsement to a learner's permit?
Yes. You can pursue the endorsement while you hold a learner's permit. The endorsement will be added to your permit, and it will transfer to your full license when you renew or upgrade your permit status.