A Class CM license lets you drive a motorcycle with an engine of 50cc or less in Texas

The Class CM is the smallest motorcycle license category in Texas. It covers motorized bicycles and mopeds — machines with engines no larger than 50 cubic centimeters. If you want to ride anything bigger, you will need a different class. If you only plan to ride a small moped or motorized scooter, a Class CM is what you are looking for.

Texas groups motorcycle licenses into three classes based on engine size. Class CM is the entry point. Class M covers motorcycles from 50cc up to any size. Class M with an endorsement (written as M with a number) covers three-wheeled motorcycles. The Class CM sits apart because the rules for getting one are simpler than the rules for Class M.

Key Takeaways

  • A Class CM license covers only motorcycles and mopeds with engines of 50cc or smaller.
  • You must be at least 16 years old and pass a written test about motorcycle safety and traffic laws.
  • You do not have to take a road test to get a Class CM license, which is different from Class M.
  • If you later want to ride a larger motorcycle, you will need to upgrade to a Class M license by passing both a written and road test.

Age requirements and when you can ride

You must be at least 16 years old to hold a Class CM license in Texas. There is no upper age limit. If you are 16 or 17, you can ride a 50cc machine on public roads once you have your license.

If you are under 18, Texas law requires you to wear a safety helmet while riding, even on a 50cc moped. Riders 18 and older can choose whether to wear a helmet, though wearing one is strongly recommended. These rules explore whether you are the driver or a passenger.

What you need to bring to the Texas Department of Public Safety

When you go to a DPS office to get your Class CM license, bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number. A passport or state ID counts as identity. A utility bill or lease agreement counts as residency. A Social Security card or tax return counts as proof of your number.

If you are under 18, you will also need a completed form called the process for a Minor to Obtain a Driver License or Permit (Form DL-44). A parent or guardian must sign this form. Bring the original or a certified copy.

You do not need a learner permit to get a Class CM license. You can go straight to the written test.

The written test for Class CM

The Class CM written test covers motorcycle safety, Texas traffic laws, and how to handle your machine. You will answer questions about braking, turning, lane positioning, and what to do in bad weather. The test also covers road signs and right-of-way rules that explore to all drivers.

Texas does not publish the exact number of questions on the Class CM test, but it is shorter than the Class M test. You can study using the Texas Motorcycle Operator Manual, which the DPS provides free online. Many people also use practice tests available through the DPS website or third-party study sites.

You must pass the written test to move forward. If you do not pass on your first try, you can retake it. There is no road test requirement for Class CM, so once you pass the written test, you can get your license.

Cost and how long the license lasts

The fee for a Class CM license varies depending on how long you want it to last. A five-year license costs less than an eight-year license. Texas also charges different fees for people under 18 and people 18 and older. Check the DPS website or call your local DPS office for the exact current fee, as prices change.

Your Class CM license will expire on your birthday in the year shown on the card. When it expires, you can renew it by mail, online, or in person at a DPS office. You do not have to retake the test to renew.

Upgrading from Class CM to Class M

If you start with a Class CM license and later want to ride a larger motorcycle, you will need to upgrade to a Class M license. This requires passing both a written test and a road test. The road test is the main difference — Class CM does not require one, but Class M does.

You can take the Class M road test at a DPS office. You will ride your own motorcycle (or a borrowed one that meets the size requirement) on a closed course while an examiner watches. The test checks your ability to start, stop, turn, and handle the machine safely.

Some riders take a motorcycle safety course before upgrading. In Texas, completing an approved Motorcycle Safety Foundation course can waive the road test requirement for Class M. This is an option if you want to skip the road test but still want the larger license.

Restrictions and what you cannot do with a Class CM

A Class CM license is for riding only. You cannot use it to drive a car, truck, or any four-wheeled vehicle. If you want to drive a car, you need a separate Class C license (the standard car license in Texas).

You also cannot carry a passenger on a 50cc machine unless it is designed and equipped to carry one. Check your owner's manual or the manufacturer's label on the machine to see if it is rated for two riders. Many small mopeds are single-rider only.

If you are under 18, you must wear a helmet at all times while riding. You also cannot ride between midnight and 5 a.m. unless you are riding to or from work, school, or a court-ordered activity. This is part of Texas's graduated licensing rules for minors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a learner permit before I can take the Class CM written test?

No. Unlike Class M, the Class CM does not require a learner permit. You can go straight to the DPS office and take the written test. Once you pass, you get your license.

Can I ride a 50cc motorcycle on the highway with a Class CM license?

Yes, you can ride on the highway. However, some highways have minimum speed limits that a 50cc machine may not be able to meet safely. Check the speed limit signs and ride only where it is legal and safe for your machine.

What happens if I get a Class CM license and then want to drive a car?

You will need to get a separate Class C license for cars. You can hold both licenses at the same time. You will need to pass the written and road tests for Class C in addition to your Class CM.

Is there a road test for Class CM?

No. Class CM requires only a written test. If you later upgrade to Class M, you will have to take a road test unless you complete an approved motorcycle safety course.

Can I ride a 50cc motorcycle at night if I am under 18?

Not between midnight and 5 a.m., unless you are riding to or from work, school, or a court-ordered activity. This restriction applies to all riders under 18 in Texas, regardless of license class.