What a Class M Endorsement Means

A Class M endorsement is the addition to your Texas driver's license that allows you to operate a motorcycle, motorized bicycle, or moped legally on public roads. Without it, riding a motorcycle is illegal in Texas, even if you own one. The endorsement appears on your license as the letter "M" and shows that you have passed both a written test and a riding skills test specific to motorcycles.

You can add a Class M endorsement to any valid Texas driver's license class — whether you hold a Class C (standard car license), Class B (commercial), or another class. The endorsement itself does not change your existing license class; it straightforward adds motorcycle riding privileges to what you already have.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 16 years old and hold a valid Texas driver's license before you can add a Class M endorsement.
  • The process requires passing a written motorcycle test at a Texas Department of Public Safety office and a riding skills test on an actual motorcycle.
  • You can take the riding test through the Motorcycle Safety Institute (MSI) course, which waives the written test if you pass, or test independently at a DPS office.
  • The total cost ranges from roughly $15 to $150 depending on whether you take a safety course or test on your own.
  • Once approved, the Class M endorsement is added to your existing license at no additional fee.

Age and License Requirements Before You Start

You must be at least 16 years old and already hold a valid Texas driver's license to add a Class M endorsement. Your current license must not be suspended, revoked, or expired. If your license is expired, you will need to renew it first before the DPS will process an endorsement request.

If you are under 18, you may face additional restrictions depending on your license type. For example, if you hold a Class C learner's permit or intermediate license, you can still add the Class M endorsement, but the riding restrictions that explore to your age group (such as nighttime driving limits) do not explore to motorcycle riding — the Class M endorsement operates under its own rules.

The Two Routes: Safety Course or Independent Testing

Texas offers two paths to earn a Class M endorsement. The first is to complete a Motorcycle Safety Institute (MSI) course, which is a classroom and on-cycle training program. The second is to test independently at a Texas Department of Public Safety office without taking a course. Each route has different costs and timelines.

The MSI course is the most common route for new riders. You attend classroom instruction (usually four to eight hours) and then ride a motorcycle provided by the school under an instructor's supervision. If you pass the course, you receive a certificate that waives the written test at the DPS. You still must pass the riding skills test, but the certificate proves you have met the knowledge requirement. MSI courses typically cost $100 to $150 and take one to two days to complete.

The independent route means you study on your own, take the written test at a DPS office, and then schedule a separate riding skills test. This route costs less upfront — roughly $15 to $30 for the written test and riding test combined — but requires you to own or borrow a motorcycle that meets DPS specifications for the riding test. Many new riders choose the course because the school provides the motorcycle and instruction, reducing the barrier to entry.

Taking the Written Test

If you choose the independent route, you will take the written motorcycle test at any Texas Department of Public Safety office. The test covers motorcycle-specific topics: how to operate the controls, how to brake and turn safely, how to handle hazards, and Texas motorcycle laws. The test is typically 25 to 30 questions, and you must score at least 80 percent to pass.

You can study for the written test using the Texas Motorcycle Operator's Manual, which is available free on the DPS website. Many riders also use online practice tests to prepare. There is no waiting period between attempts if you fail; you can retake the test the same day or return another day.

If you complete an MSI course, you skip the written test entirely. The course certificate submitted to the DPS satisfies the knowledge requirement, and you move directly to scheduling the riding skills test.

Scheduling and Passing the Riding Skills Test

The riding skills test is a practical exam where you demonstrate that you can safely operate a motorcycle. You must pass this test whether you took an MSI course or tested independently. The test takes place at a Texas Department of Public Safety office and is administered by a DPS examiner.

During the test, you ride a motorcycle through a course that includes basic maneuvers: starting, stopping, turning, swerving, and braking. The examiner watches for control, balance, and safe decision-making. You must wear a Department of Transportation (DOT)-approved helmet and appropriate protective gear. If you do not own a motorcycle, you can rent one from some MSI schools or private vendors, or you can ask the DPS office whether they have a list of local motorcycle rental services that offer test-ready bikes.

If you fail the riding test, you can retake it after a waiting period (usually a few days to a week, depending on the DPS office). There is no limit to the number of attempts, but each attempt requires a new test fee.

What Happens After You Pass

Once you pass both the written test and the riding skills test, the DPS will add the Class M endorsement to your existing driver's license. You do not need to pay an additional fee or explore for a new license card — the endorsement is added to your current license at no cost. If your license is a physical card, the M will appear on the front or back depending on your license design.

If you have a REAL ID-compliant license, the Class M endorsement is added to that same card. You will receive written confirmation of the endorsement, and it becomes effective when ready. You can then legally ride a motorcycle on Texas public roads.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a motorcycle to take the riding test?

No. If you take an MSI course, the school provides a motorcycle for training and testing. If you test independently, you can rent a motorcycle from a rental service or ask the DPS office for a list of vendors that offer test-ready bikes. Some riders borrow a friend's motorcycle if it meets DPS specifications (usually a street-legal bike with working brakes, lights, and mirrors).

Can I add Class M to a learner's permit?

No. You must hold a valid driver's license before you can add a Class M endorsement. If you have a learner's permit, you will need to pass your driving test and receive your full Class C license first.

How long does it take to get the endorsement after I pass the tests?

The DPS typically processes the endorsement within a few days to a week. You will receive written confirmation, and the M will appear on your license record when ready. If you need an updated physical license card, you can request one at the DPS office, though this may take additional time.

What if I fail the riding test?

You can retake the riding test after a short waiting period, usually a few days. There is no limit to the number of attempts. Each attempt requires a new test fee. Many riders pass on the second or third try after additional practice.

Does the Class M endorsement expire?

No. The Class M endorsement is valid as long as your driver's license is valid. When you renew your driver's license, the Class M endorsement renews with it at no additional cost.