How to Get Your Motorcycle Endorsement on a Michigan CDL

What you need to do to add a motorcycle endorsement to your Michigan CDL

A motorcycle endorsement (called the "M" endorsement in Michigan) lets you operate motorcycles as part of your commercial driving. You cannot legally ride a motorcycle for hire or as part of a job without it, even if you already hold a regular CDL. The Michigan Secretary of State issues this endorsement, and the process involves passing a written test, a skills test on a motorcycle, and meeting vision and medical requirements.

The endorsement is separate from a regular motorcycle license — it is added to your existing CDL, not a replacement for it. You must already hold a valid Michigan CDL before you can add the M endorsement.

Key Takeaways

You must hold a valid Michigan CDL before you can add a motorcycle endorsement; you cannot get the M endorsement on a regular driver's license.
The process requires passing a written knowledge test, a motorcycle skills test, and meeting medical certification standards set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
You will need to bring your current CDL, proof of Michigan residency, and a motorcycle to use for the skills test — the Secretary of State does not provide one.
The written test covers motorcycle-specific rules, hazard recognition, and braking techniques; study materials are available on the Michigan Secretary of State website.
Skills testing is performed by an approved third-party examiner, not at a Secretary of State office, so you will need to schedule separately and pay their fee.

Medical certification and FMCSA requirements

Before you take either test, you must have a valid FMCSA medical certificate. This is the same medical clearance required for any CDL holder. A certified medical examiner (listed on the FMCSA National Registry) must examine you and sign off that you meet vision, hearing, and general health standards. The certificate is valid for two years.

If your medical certificate is expired or missing, you cannot test for the motorcycle endorsement. You will need to schedule an exam with an FMCSA-listed examiner in Michigan, bring your current CDL, and pay their fee (typically $75 to $150). Once you have the signed certificate, you can move forward with the written test.

The written knowledge test for the M endorsement

The Michigan Secretary of State administers a written test covering motorcycle operation, safety, and hazard awareness. The test has 20 questions, and you must answer at least 16 correctly to pass. Questions cover topics like proper braking on a motorcycle, how to handle curves, what to do in an emergency stop, and how to inspect a motorcycle before riding.

You can take the written test at any Secretary of State office that handles CDL testing. Bring your current CDL, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and your FMCSA medical certificate. There is no fee for the written test itself. If you fail, you can retake it, but you must wait one day before your next attempt.

Study materials are available on the Michigan Secretary of State website under CDL endorsement resources. Many people also study using the same motorcycle safety handbooks used for regular motorcycle licenses, since the knowledge overlaps.

The motorcycle skills test and third-party examiners

After you pass the written test, you must pass a skills test on an actual motorcycle. Michigan uses approved third-party examiners to conduct these tests — the Secretary of State does not perform them. You will need to find an examiner, schedule the test, and bring your own motorcycle or arrange to use one.

The skills test includes a pre-ride inspection (checking brakes, lights, and tire condition), an off-road course (figure-eights, quick stops, and tight turns), and on-road riding. The examiner watches for smooth acceleration, proper braking, correct turning technique, and safe road awareness. The test typically takes 30 to 45 minutes.

To find an approved third-party examiner in Michigan, contact the Secretary of State's CDL section or search their online list of examiners. Call ahead to confirm they are currently testing for the M endorsement, as not all examiners offer motorcycle testing. Fees vary by examiner but typically range from $100 to $200. You will also need to provide proof of insurance on the motorcycle you are using for the test.

What motorcycle to use for the skills test

You must bring your own motorcycle to the skills test — the examiner will not provide one. The motorcycle must be street-legal, registered in Michigan, and insured. It should be in safe working condition with functioning brakes, lights, horn, and mirrors. The examiner will inspect it before the test begins.

Many people borrow a motorcycle from a friend or family member for the test. If you do, make sure the owner's insurance covers you as a rider, and bring proof of that coverage to the test. Some motorcycle safety courses (like those offered through the Motorcycle Safety Foundation) include use of a training motorcycle, so taking a course beforehand can solve the motorcycle problem and improve your test performance at the same time.

Timeline and next steps after passing

Once you pass both the written and skills tests, the examiner submits your results to the Michigan Secretary of State. The endorsement is usually added to your CDL within one to two weeks. You will receive an updated CDL in the mail showing the M endorsement.

You do not need to renew your CDL to get the endorsement added — it is added to your current license. If your CDL is expiring soon, you may want to renew it at the same time so your endorsement and your license expire together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a motorcycle endorsement without a CDL?

No. The M endorsement is only added to an existing CDL. If you do not have a CDL, you must first obtain one through the standard CDL testing process, then add the motorcycle endorsement. A regular driver's license with a motorcycle endorsement is different and does not allow commercial motorcycle operation.

What if I fail the skills test?

You can retake the skills test with the same examiner or a different approved examiner. There is no waiting period between attempts, but you will have to pay the examiner's fee again. Your written test result remains valid, so you do not need to retake that portion.

Do I need to take a motorcycle safety course?

It is not required by Michigan law, but taking a course through the Motorcycle Safety Foundation or a similar organization can help you pass the skills test and may reduce your insurance costs. Some courses also provide a motorcycle for practice and testing.

How long is the motorcycle endorsement valid?

The M endorsement is valid as long as your CDL is valid. When you renew your CDL, the endorsement renews with it. Your FMCSA medical certificate must also remain current — if it expires, your CDL (and all endorsements) become invalid for commercial driving until you renew the medical certificate.

What is the cost to add a motorcycle endorsement?

There is no fee for the written test. The skills test fee depends on the examiner and typically ranges from $100 to $200. You will also need to pay for an FMCSA medical exam if you do not already have a current certificate (usually $75 to $150). Total cost is typically $175 to $350, depending on your medical status and which examiner you use.

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.