What a Motorcycle Endorsement Is and Why You Need It
A motorcycle endorsement is a separate authorization added to your Texas driver's license that lets you legally ride a motorcycle on public roads. Without it, you cannot operate a motorcycle even if you hold a regular driver's license. Texas calls this endorsement the "M" endorsement, and it appears on your license as a restriction code.
You need the endorsement whether you own a motorcycle, plan to ride one occasionally, or want to operate a motorized bicycle with an engine larger than 50 cubic centimeters. The state treats motorcycle operation as a distinct skill that requires its own testing and proof of knowledge.
The endorsement process is separate from getting or renewing your regular driver's license, though you must hold a valid Texas driver's license first. You cannot get an M endorsement on a learner's permit alone.
Key Takeaways
- You must hold a valid Texas driver's license before you can add a motorcycle endorsement to it.
- Texas offers two paths to the endorsement: pass the written and road tests through the Department of Public Safety, or complete an approved motorcycle safety course and waive the tests.
- The Motorcycle Safety Institute (MSI) course is the most common approved course in Texas and takes two or three days to complete.
- If you test through DPS, you will take a written exam at a driver's license office and a road test on your own motorcycle at a separate testing location.
- The endorsement costs a small fee when you add it to your license, and the fee varies depending on how long you want the endorsement to last.
The Two Routes to Your Motorcycle Endorsement
Texas gives you two ways to earn an M endorsement. The first is to pass both a written test and a riding test administered by the Department of Public Safety (DPS). The second is to complete an approved motorcycle safety course, which waives both tests.
Most new riders choose the safety course route because it teaches you to ride safely before you test, and you avoid the pressure of a DPS road test. However, if you already ride and want to skip the course, you can test directly with DPS. Both paths result in the same endorsement on your license.
Taking an Approved Motorcycle Safety Course
An approved course in Texas is run by organizations that meet state standards. The most widely available is the Motorcycle Safety Institute (MSI), which operates courses across Texas. Other approved providers include the Motorcycle Riders Foundation and some community colleges, though availability varies by region.
A typical MSI course runs two or three days and includes classroom instruction, hands-on training in a parking lot or closed course, and a riding test. You do not need to own a motorcycle—most courses provide training bikes. The course covers basic motorcycle operation, safety, hazard awareness, and emergency braking. By the end, you will have ridden under supervision and passed the course's riding test.
Once you complete an approved course, you receive a certificate of completion. You then take this certificate to any Texas DPS driver's license office and pay the endorsement fee. DPS adds the M endorsement to your license without requiring you to take additional tests. The whole process from course completion to having the endorsement on your license usually takes a few days to a week.
Testing Directly Through the Department of Public Safety
If you choose not to take a safety course, you can test directly with DPS. You will take two separate tests: a written knowledge test and a riding test on a motorcycle you provide.
The written test covers motorcycle operation, road signs, safety rules, and handling techniques. You take it at any Texas DPS driver's license office during regular business hours. The test has multiple-choice questions, and you must pass with a score set by DPS. You can study using the Texas Motorcycle Operator Manual, which DPS provides free online.
The riding test is scheduled separately and takes place at a DPS testing location. You must bring your own motorcycle, a valid helmet, and protective gear. The examiner watches you perform specific riding maneuvers and evaluate your control, awareness, and safety. If you fail either test, you can retake it, though you may need to wait a set period before your next attempt.
Documents and Fees You Will Need
To add a motorcycle endorsement to your Texas license, bring your current driver's license and proof of identity to a DPS office. If you completed a safety course, bring your certificate of completion. If you are testing through DPS, you do not need the certificate—just your license and ID.
The endorsement fee depends on how long you want it to last. You can add it for the remainder of your current license term, or renew your entire license with the endorsement included. Fees are small but vary, so ask at the DPS office or check the Texas DPS website for current amounts. You pay at the time you add the endorsement.
For the riding test, you must bring a street-legal motorcycle, a DOT-approved helmet, and protective clothing. Some testing locations have specific requirements about what counts as protective gear, so call ahead to confirm.
How Long the Endorsement Lasts
A motorcycle endorsement stays on your license for as long as your driver's license is valid. If your license expires in three years, your M endorsement expires at the same time. When you renew your driver's license, you can renew the endorsement at the same time, or you can let it expire and add it again later if you stop riding.
You do not need to retake any test to renew the endorsement—DPS straightforward extends it when you renew your license. The renewal process is the same whether you originally earned the endorsement through a safety course or through DPS testing.
What Happens After You Get Your Endorsement
Once the M endorsement appears on your license, you can legally ride a motorcycle on Texas public roads. However, Texas has additional rules for motorcycle riders. You must wear a DOT-approved helmet at all times while riding (with limited exceptions for riders over 21 with insurance). You must also carry proof of insurance, just as you would in a car.
Some riders choose to take additional advanced riding courses after earning their endorsement to improve their skills and reduce insurance costs. These courses are not required but are widely recommended, especially for new riders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a motorcycle endorsement to ride a motorized bicycle or scooter?
It depends on the engine size. If the engine is 50 cubic centimeters or smaller, you do not need an M endorsement. If it is larger than 50cc, you do need the endorsement. Check your vehicle's specifications to be sure.
Can I take the motorcycle safety course if I have never ridden before?
Yes. The safety course is designed for beginners and teaches you from the ground up. You do not need any prior riding experience, and the course provides motorcycles for training. Most riders who have never ridden before choose the course route.
What if I fail the DPS riding test?
You can retake the test. There is usually a waiting period before your next attempt, and you may need to pay another test fee. Many riders who fail the first time then take a safety course before retesting, which improves their chances of passing.
Can I add a motorcycle endorsement to a learner's permit?
No. You must hold a valid driver's license first. Once you have your license, you can add the M endorsement at any time.
How much does the motorcycle endorsement cost in Texas?
The endorsement fee is small but varies depending on how long you add it for and whether you renew your entire license at the same time. Contact your local DPS office or visit the Texas DPS website for the current fee amount.