A Class CM license is for drivers who operate a motorcycle with an attached sidecar, or a three-wheeled motorcycle
Texas issues a Class CM license specifically for motorcycles with sidecars and three-wheeled motorcycles (sometimes called trikes). If you want to ride a standard two-wheeled motorcycle, you need a different endorsement. The CM class exists because three-wheeled and sidecar bikes handle differently from regular motorcycles and require separate training and testing.
You cannot legally ride a three-wheeled motorcycle or a motorcycle with a sidecar on a regular Class C (car) license, even if you have motorcycle experience on two wheels. Texas treats these vehicles as their own category, and law enforcement will cite you if you operate one without the proper license class.
The CM endorsement is less common than the M endorsement (for standard motorcycles), but the process to get it follows the same basic path: pass a written test, pass a riding skills test, and pay the licensing fee.
Key Takeaways
- A Class CM license is required to legally operate a motorcycle with a sidecar or a three-wheeled motorcycle in Texas.
- You must pass both a written knowledge test and a riding skills test specific to three-wheeled or sidecar motorcycles.
- The CM endorsement cannot be added to a Class C license; you must hold a valid Class C license first, then add the CM class.
- You can take the riding test through the Texas Department of Public Safety or through an approved motorcycle safety course that offers testing.
How Class CM differs from Class M and Class C
A Class M license covers standard two-wheeled motorcycles. A Class C license covers cars, SUVs, and pickup trucks. Class CM is its own category because three-wheeled motorcycles and sidecars have different weight distribution, braking, and handling characteristics than either a car or a two-wheeled bike.
If you hold only a Class C license, you cannot legally operate any motorcycle, including a three-wheeled one. If you hold a Class M license (for two-wheeled motorcycles), you still cannot operate a three-wheeled motorcycle or sidecar bike without adding the CM class. The two are not interchangeable in Texas.
Some riders hold both M and CM endorsements so they can legally ride any motorcycle configuration. Others hold only CM if they own only a three-wheeled bike.
What you need before you test for Class CM
Before you can test for Class CM, you must already hold a valid Class C Texas driver's license. You cannot test for CM as your first license class. If you do not yet have a Class C license, you will need to get one first by passing the written test and road test for cars.
Once you have your Class C license, you can add the CM class by passing the CM-specific written test and riding skills test. You do not need to retake the Class C test.
You will also need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your current Texas driver's license to the testing location. Bring your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) as well.
The written test for Class CM
The Class CM written test covers how three-wheeled motorcycles and sidecars work, how to operate them safely, and Texas traffic laws as they explore to motorcycles. The test is 25 questions, and you must answer at least 19 correctly to pass (76 percent).
You can study for the test using the Texas Motorcycle Operator Manual, which is free and available online from the Texas Department of Public Safety website. The manual covers sidecar and three-wheeled motorcycle operation in detail. Many riders also use third-party study guides and practice tests.
You take the written test at a Texas Department of Public Safety office or an approved testing location. The test is offered in English and Spanish. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or return another day.
The riding skills test for Class CM
After you pass the written test, you must pass a riding skills test on an actual three-wheeled motorcycle or motorcycle with sidecar. The test is administered by the Texas Department of Public Safety or by an approved motorcycle safety course provider.
The riding test lasts about 15 to 20 minutes and takes place in a closed course. You will be asked to perform basic maneuvers such as starting, stopping, turning, and emergency braking. The examiner watches to see whether you can control the vehicle safely and follow traffic laws.
You must bring your own three-wheeled motorcycle or sidecar bike to the test, or arrange to use one through an approved safety course. Some motorcycle safety schools provide bikes for testing if you take their course.
Taking a motorcycle safety course instead of testing alone
Texas allows you to bypass the riding skills test by completing an approved motorcycle safety course that includes instruction on three-wheeled motorcycles or sidecars. Courses are offered by the Texas Safety Assocation and other approved providers throughout the state.
A safety course typically takes one to two days and includes both classroom instruction and hands-on riding practice. You will ride a motorcycle provided by the course, so you do not need to own one beforehand. At the end, if you pass, the course provider issues you a certificate that you can bring to a Department of Public Safety office to get your Class CM license without taking the separate riding test.
Many riders choose the safety course route because it provides professional instruction, uses school-provided bikes, and eliminates the need to schedule a separate test appointment. The course fee varies but is typically between $150 and $300.
How to add Class CM to your existing license
Once you have passed both the written test and riding skills test (or completed an approved safety course), you go to a Texas Department of Public Safety office with your current Class C license, your test results or safety course certificate, and your proof of identity and residency.
The staff will process your request and issue you a new license with the CM class added. Your new license will show both Class C and Class CM. The fee for adding a class to your license is $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license.
Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days, or you can request it be printed on-site at some offices. Once you receive it, you can legally operate a three-wheeled motorcycle or motorcycle with sidecar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Class CM license if I do not have a Class C license yet?
No. You must hold a valid Class C driver's license before you can add the CM class. If you do not have a Class C license, you will need to get one first by passing the written test and road test for cars.
Do I need to own a three-wheeled motorcycle to test for Class CM?
You need access to one for the riding skills test, but you do not need to own it. You can borrow one, rent one, or use a bike provided by an approved motorcycle safety course. If you take a safety course, the school provides the bike.
What happens if I fail the riding skills test?
You can retake the test. There is no limit to how many times you can test, but you will pay the test fee each time. Many people retake it within a few days or weeks after practicing more.
Is a Class CM license valid in other states?
A Texas Class CM license is recognized in most other states, but some states have different motorcycle classifications. If you plan to ride in another state, check that state's Department of Motor Vehicles website to confirm your license will be valid there.
Can I ride a three-wheeled motorcycle with only a Class C license if I have taken a safety course?
No. A safety course does not replace the license requirement. You must have the CM class on your actual license to legally operate a three-wheeled motorcycle or sidecar bike, even if you have completed safety training.