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How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Colorado

Updated on Thu, 4/28/2011

You can apply for a license authorizing you to drive a motorcycle at any DMV office in Colorado. A general motorcycle endorsement of ‘M' on your license will qualify you to ride a motorcycle. Motorcycle-only licenses are not issued any more by the State.

New Applicants Over 18

Listed below are the general requirements to obtain the motorcycle endorsement:

  1. Pass the motorcycle written test. See practice tests for more information on the written exam
  2. Pass the motorcycle operators driving skill test at any DMV centre or a third party test centre.
  3. Pass the vision test.
  4. Pass the Physical aptitude review.
  5. Undergo a review of the Driving Record.
  6. Pay the required fee (an additional $2 to the here).

New Applicants between 15 and 18

In addition to the above requirements, applicants under 18 must:
  1. Must be a minimum of 16 years of age for adding the motorcycle endorsement.
  2. Provide an Affidavit of Liability and Guardianship.
  3. Must have possessed the motorcycle instruction permit for 12 months.
For applicants between 15 and 16 years of age:
  1. Provide proof of completion of the Motorcycle Operator Skills Training (MOST) program. Please see Driver's Education and Driving Schools for additional details.
  2. Once you complete the aforementioned prerequisites, you will be given an instruction permit. This permit will allow you to practice driving a motorcycle.

Instruction Permit Restrictions

With your instruction permit you are permitted to:
  • Drive under the immediate and direct supervision of your MOST instructor or the parent or guardian who signed the Affidavit of Liability.
  • If you are not driving with your MOST instructor or your parent/guardian, then you need to have their permission to ride with another adult over 21 years of age who is in possession of a valid Colorado issued driving license endorsed for motorcycles.

Applying for a Motorcycle License

Under 21

  • If you are between 16 and 17 you must have had your permit for at least 12 months.
  • Provide a registered and insured motorcycle for use during the driving test.
  • Provide proof of completion of the Motorcycle Operator Skills Training (MOST) program.

Over 21

If you are over 21 you can apply for a motorcycle license in two ways:
  • Pass the written test at the DMV office and purchase the motorcycle instruction permit. Next, pass the driving test at the DMV office or a third party tester. Then pay the additional $2 fee for obtaining the endorsement.
  • Alternatively, you can pass the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Training course and present the certificate to the DMV office. Your driving and written test will be waived and you will need to pay the additional $2 fee to obtain the motorcycle endorsement. You can contact the MSF at 303-757-9466.
Additional Information