An F endorsement lets you operate a motorized bicycle or moped on public roads in most states
An F endorsement is a restriction or permission code added to your driver's license that authorizes you to ride a motorized bicycle or moped. The exact definition varies by state — some states call it an endorsement, others call it a restriction or classification. In most places, you cannot legally ride a motorized two-wheeler on public roads without one, even if you already hold a regular driver's license.
The F endorsement exists because motorized bicycles and mopeds occupy a legal gray area between bicycles and motorcycles. They are lighter and slower than full motorcycles, but faster and more powerful than pedal bikes. States use the F endorsement to confirm you understand the rules specific to these vehicles and have passed a test or met other requirements.
Whether you need an F endorsement depends on your state's definition of a motorized bicycle or moped, the engine size, and whether the vehicle has pedals. A vehicle that qualifies in one state may not in another, so you must check your state's motor vehicle department website before buying or riding.
Key Takeaways
- An F endorsement authorizes you to operate a motorized bicycle or moped and is required by most states before you can legally ride one on public roads.
- The definition of what qualifies for an F endorsement varies by state — engine size, top speed, and whether the vehicle has pedals all affect whether you need one.
- To obtain an F endorsement, you typically pass a written test about moped or motorized bicycle rules and may need to pass a riding skills test.
- Some states issue an F endorsement as part of a regular driver's license renewal, while others require a separate process or test appointment.
- An F endorsement is different from a motorcycle endorsement and does not allow you to ride full-size motorcycles.
How F endorsement requirements differ by state
There is no federal F endorsement — each state sets its own rules about what vehicles require one and what you must do to get it. Some states use the letter F, others use different codes or call it a "moped classification" or "motorized bicycle permit." A few states do not require any special endorsement for motorized bicycles under a certain engine size.
The most common trigger for needing an F endorsement is engine size. Many states require one for any motorized bicycle or moped with an engine larger than 50 cubic centimeters (cc). Others set the threshold at 35 cc or 100 cc. Some states also look at top speed — if the vehicle can exceed 30 miles per hour, you may need an endorsement even if the engine is small.
A few states distinguish between motorized bicycles (which have pedals and a small engine) and mopeds (which may not have pedals). You might need an F endorsement for a moped but not for a pedal-information motorized bicycle, or vice versa. Check your state's motor vehicle department website or call their licensing office to confirm what applies to the specific vehicle you want to ride.
Steps to obtain an F endorsement
The process for getting an F endorsement usually starts with your state's motor vehicle department. Most states require you to pass a written test covering moped or motorized bicycle rules, safe riding practices, and traffic laws specific to these vehicles. Some states also require a riding skills test on an actual moped or motorized bicycle, either on a closed course or during a road test.
In many states, you can add an F endorsement to your existing driver's license without renewing the whole license. You visit a motor vehicle office, pay a fee (typically $10 to $50), take the written test, and the endorsement is added to your current license. A few states issue a new license card with the endorsement printed on it; others straightforward add a notation to your record.
Some states allow you to take the F endorsement test online or at a third-party testing center, while others require you to visit a motor vehicle office in person. A handful of states offer the test in multiple languages. Call your state's motor vehicle department or visit their website to find out where and when you can test, what the fee is, and whether you need to bring any documents.
What you need to bring to the motor vehicle office
Bring your current driver's license or state ID card, proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return), and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill or lease). Some states also ask for proof of citizenship or lawful presence, such as a passport or birth certificate. Requirements vary, so check your state's motor vehicle department website before you go.
You do not need to own a moped or motorized bicycle to test for an F endorsement — the test is written knowledge only in most states. If your state requires a riding skills test, you may be able to use a vehicle provided by the testing center or a motorcycle training school. A few states allow you to bring your own vehicle if it is registered and insured.
F endorsement versus motorcycle endorsement
An F endorsement is not the same as a motorcycle endorsement, and you cannot use one in place of the other. An F endorsement allows you to ride motorized bicycles and mopeds only. A motorcycle endorsement (often called an M endorsement or Class M license) allows you to ride full-size motorcycles and is a separate test with different requirements.
A full-size motorcycle is typically defined as a motorized two-wheeler with an engine larger than 50 cc, a top speed above 30 miles per hour, or no pedals at all. The motorcycle endorsement test is usually more rigorous than the F endorsement test and may include a longer riding skills component. If you want to ride both a moped and a motorcycle, you need both endorsements.
Some states allow you to test for both endorsements at the same visit, and some offer a combined test. Others require separate appointments. Check your state's motor vehicle department to see what options are available and whether testing for both at once will save you time or money.
Cost and renewal of an F endorsement
The cost to add an F endorsement to your driver's license varies by state, typically ranging from $10 to $50. Some states charge a flat fee; others charge based on how long the endorsement is valid. A few states include the endorsement test fee in the cost of a driver's license renewal if you add it at the same time.
An F endorsement is usually valid for the same period as your driver's license — commonly four to eight years depending on your state and age. When your license expires and you renew it, the F endorsement renews automatically in most states. A few states require you to retake the written test or pay an additional fee to renew the endorsement, so check your state's rules.
If you move to a different state, your F endorsement does not transfer. You will need to obtain an F endorsement in your new state if that state requires one for the vehicle you want to ride. The rules and tests may be different, so plan to study and test again.
What happens if you ride without an F endorsement
Riding a motorized bicycle or moped without the required F endorsement is typically a traffic violation in states that mandate one. Penalties vary but often include a fine (commonly $50 to $200), points on your driving record, or both. In some states, you may also face vehicle impoundment or a requirement to complete a safety course.
A violation for riding without an endorsement can affect your insurance rates and may show up on a background check. If you are stopped by law enforcement, the officer will check whether your license has the required endorsement for the vehicle you are riding. Having the endorsement protects you legally and shows that you have passed a test on safe riding practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an F endorsement if I have a motorcycle endorsement?
No. A motorcycle endorsement typically covers both motorcycles and mopeds or motorized bicycles, depending on your state. Check your state's motor vehicle department to confirm, because the rules vary. Some states consider a moped a motorcycle for licensing purposes; others treat them separately.
Can I get an F endorsement if my driver's license is suspended or expired?
Most states will not add an F endorsement to a suspended license. If your license is expired, you may be able to renew it and add the endorsement at the same time, or you may need to renew first and then test for the endorsement separately. Contact your state's motor vehicle department to find out the order of steps.
What if I fail the F endorsement test?
You can usually retake the test after a waiting period, which varies by state — commonly a few days to a week. There is usually a fee each time you test. Study materials are often available on your state's motor vehicle department website or at the testing center.
Does an F endorsement allow me to ride an electric motorized bicycle?
It depends on your state's definition. Some states regulate electric motorized bicycles separately from gas-powered mopeds, and may not require an F endorsement for low-power electric bikes. Others treat all motorized bicycles the same way. Check your state's motor vehicle department website or call to confirm whether your specific electric bike requires an endorsement.
Can I add an F endorsement online?
A few states allow you to pay the fee and submit documents online, but most require you to visit a motor vehicle office in person to take the written test. Some states partner with third-party testing centers that may offer online testing or testing at locations outside the main motor vehicle office. Check your state's website to see what options are available.