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How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Michigan

Updated on Thu, 4/28/2011

You can apply for a Temporary Instruction Permit and license at any office of the Secretary of State (SoS) in Michigan. In order to apply for a motorcycle license you must first apply for a motorcycle permit.

New Applicants Over 18

Driving a motorcycle without a Temporary Instruction Permit entails various penalties including a payment of $300.

Listed below are the requirements to obtain a motorcycle endorsement:

  1. Complete application form- original must be submitted in person; no photocopies are allowed.
  2. Have your picture taken.
  3. Give a thumb print.
  4. Pay an application fee ($13.50).
  5. Pass the vision test.
  6. Pass the signs and traffic laws examination. See practice tests for more information on the written exam.
  7. Book an appointment to take your examination by calling (888) SOS-MICH; (888) 767-6424 or please see your local SoS office for hours and locations.

New Applicants 16-18 years old

In addition to the above requirements, applicants under 18 must:
  1. Provide a parent/guardian signature on the form
  2. Present proof that you have completed or are enrolled in a Michigan Motorcycle Safety Program. Please see Driver's Education and Driving Schools for additional details.
  3. Provide proof of birth date and legal status documentation.
  4. Present your true full name.
  5. Present your social security number.

Temporary Instruction Permit

Once you complete the aforementioned prerequisites, you will be given a Temporary Instruction Permit. This permit will allow you to practice driving a motorcycle for six months while accompanied by a licensed motorcyclist aged over 18 years.

Instruction Permit Restrictions

With your instruction permit you are not permitted to:
  • Drive on the highway.
  • Drive during the evening.
  • Ride with any passengers.

Applying for a Motorcycle License

Under 18

  1. Complete a Michigan Motorcycle Safety Program offered to persons 15 and above by the state (at $25) and certain approved private agencies at fees determined by them. For more information on this course as well as when and where it is available please see the motorcycle training course. It is recommended that you have some practice balancing a bicycle before you start the course.
  2. Present the course certificate to your local SoS office.

Over 18

  1. Call your local SoS and schedule a skills test.
  2. The Michigan Motorcycle Safety Program is mandatory for any applicant who has failed the skills test twice and optional for others.

Fees

A first time endorsement costs $13.50 and renewals are $5 each time.

Additional Information