What You Need to Do to Get a Motorcycle License in Illinois

To get a motorcycle license in Illinois, you must pass a written test on motorcycle rules, pass a riding skills test, and hold a valid driver's license or obtain one at the same time. The Illinois Secretary of State issues motorcycle licenses as an endorsement added to your existing driver's license, or as part of a new license if you don't already have one. You cannot ride a motorcycle legally on public roads in Illinois without this endorsement.

The process takes at least two visits to a Secretary of State facility: one to take the written test and one to take the riding test. Some facilities allow you to complete both on the same day if you pass the written test first, but this depends on the location and examiner availability. You must be at least 16 years old to begin the process.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid Illinois driver's license or must obtain one before you can add a motorcycle endorsement.
  • The written test covers Illinois motorcycle laws, road signs, and safe riding practices; you can study using the free Illinois Motorcycle Operator Manual available on the Secretary of State website.
  • The riding skills test is performed on a closed course at a Secretary of State facility using either your own motorcycle or a loaner bike provided by the state.
  • You must bring specific documents to your first visit, including proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN.
  • The motorcycle endorsement fee is added to your driver's license renewal or new license fee; the total cost varies depending on your license type and how long you want it valid.

Step 1: Get or Verify Your Illinois Driver's License

Before you can add a motorcycle endorsement, you must have a valid Illinois driver's license. If you already hold one, you can proceed directly to the written test. If you do not have an Illinois driver's license, you must obtain one first by passing the written knowledge test and vision screening at a Secretary of State facility.

Your driver's license must be valid (not expired) on the day you take your motorcycle riding test. If your license expires before you complete both tests, you will need to renew it before continuing. Check your license expiration date before scheduling your motorcycle tests to avoid delays.

Step 2: Study and Pass the Motorcycle Written Test

The written test covers Illinois motorcycle laws, safe riding techniques, road signs, and hazard recognition. The test consists of 25 multiple-choice questions, and you must answer at least 20 correctly to pass. You have one hour to complete it. The test is offered in English and several other languages at most Secretary of State facilities.

The Illinois Secretary of State publishes the free Illinois Motorcycle Operator Manual on its website at cyberdriveillinois.com. This manual contains all the information covered on the written test. You can read it, read it online, or request a printed copy at any Secretary of State facility. Most people study the manual for one to two weeks before taking the test.

You can retake the written test if you fail it. There is no waiting period between attempts, but you must pay the test fee each time you take it. The fee for the written test is included in your overall license transaction fee.

Step 3: Schedule and Take Your Motorcycle Riding Skills Test

After you pass the written test, you must schedule a separate appointment for the riding skills test. The test is conducted on a closed course at a Secretary of State facility and takes about 15 to 20 minutes. You will be asked to perform basic motorcycle maneuvers including starting, stopping, turning, and swerving to avoid obstacles.

You can use your own motorcycle for the test, or you can use a loaner motorcycle provided by the Secretary of State. If you use your own bike, it must be street-legal, registered in Illinois, and insured. The motorcycle must also be in safe working condition with functioning brakes, lights, and horn. If you use a loaner bike, you do not need to own a motorcycle before taking the test.

You must wear a Department of Transportation (DOT)-approved helmet, eye protection, long pants, a long-sleeved shirt or jacket, and closed-toe shoes or boots during the riding test. The Secretary of State does not provide these items, so you must bring them yourself. If you do not have proper safety gear, you will not be allowed to take the test.

Documents and Fees You Need

Bring the following documents to your first visit to the Secretary of State facility:

  • A valid photo ID (passport, military ID, or state ID)
  • Proof of Illinois residency (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days)
  • Your Social Security number or ITIN
  • Your current Illinois driver's license (if you already have one)

The cost of adding a motorcycle endorsement depends on your license type and how long you want it valid. A motorcycle endorsement added to a standard driver's license costs between $30 and $50, depending on whether you are renewing an existing license or obtaining a new one. If you are getting your first driver's license and motorcycle endorsement at the same time, the total fee is higher. Fees are subject to change; check the Secretary of State website for current pricing before your visit.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not assume you can ride a motorcycle with just a regular driver's license. Illinois law requires the motorcycle endorsement, and riding without it is a traffic violation that can result in a fine and impound of your motorcycle. Some riders mistakenly believe that passing a private motorcycle safety course removes the need for the state riding test; it does not, though some courses may waive the riding test requirement (see the next section).

Do not bring an unregistered or uninsured motorcycle to your riding test. If you use your own bike, the examiner will ask to see proof of registration and insurance. Do not schedule your riding test before you have passed the written test; the Secretary of State will not allow you to take the riding test without a passing written test score on file.

Do not forget your safety gear. Many people show up without a helmet or proper clothing and are turned away. The test cannot proceed without DOT-approved helmet, eye protection, long pants, a long-sleeved shirt or jacket, and closed-toe shoes or boots.

Illinois Motorcycle Safety Course Option

Illinois recognizes the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Basic Rider Course and similar state-approved motorcycle safety courses. If you complete an approved course and receive a certificate of completion, you may be able to waive the riding skills test at the Secretary of State. However, you must still pass the written test and hold a valid driver's license.

The MSF course typically takes two to three days and costs between $200 and $300. The course includes classroom instruction and hands-on riding practice on a closed course. Upon completion, you receive a certificate that you bring to the Secretary of State along with your written test passing score. Bring the certificate to your appointment; the examiner will verify it and may waive your riding test requirement.

Not all Secretary of State facilities accept all safety course certificates. Call the facility where you plan to test before enrolling in a course to confirm that your chosen course is recognized. Some facilities have specific approved courses they accept, while others accept any course certified by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation or the state.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a motorcycle license if I'm under 18?

Yes, you can obtain a motorcycle endorsement at age 16 in Illinois. However, you must first obtain a valid driver's license, which has its own age requirements and restrictions. If you are under 18, your driver's license will have restrictions on when and where you can drive, and these restrictions also explore to motorcycle riding.

What if I fail the riding test?

You can retake the riding test. There is no waiting period, but you must pay the test fee each time. Most people pass on their second or third attempt. You do not need to retake the written test unless your passing score expires (scores are typically valid for one year).

Do I need to renew my motorcycle endorsement separately from my driver's license?

No. Your motorcycle endorsement is part of your driver's license. When you renew your driver's license, your motorcycle endorsement renews at the same time. You do not need to retake any tests unless the Secretary of State requires it as part of a license renewal in your specific situation.

Can I use a three-wheeled motorcycle or scooter for the riding test?

The riding test must be performed on a two-wheeled motorcycle. Three-wheeled vehicles and scooters under 50cc may have different licensing requirements. Contact your local Secretary of State facility to confirm the rules for your specific vehicle type.

What happens if my motorcycle endorsement process is denied?

Denials are rare if you pass both tests and meet the basic requirements. If your process is denied, the Secretary of State will provide a written reason. Common reasons include failing to provide required documents, having a suspended or revoked driver's license, or not meeting age requirements. You can reapply once you have resolved the issue.