The Texas Motorcycle Endorsement Process

A motorcycle endorsement in Texas is an addition to your driver's license that allows you to legally operate a motorcycle on public roads. You get it by passing a written test, a skills test, or both — depending on which route you choose. Texas offers three paths: the standard written and riding exam through the Department of Public Safety (DPS), the Motorcycle Safety Institute (MSI) course waiver, or the Motorcycle Operator Training Course (MOTC) waiver. The fastest route for most people is the MSI or MOTC course, which waives both tests if you complete the training.

The endorsement itself costs $20 and is added to your existing license during a DPS visit. You do not need a separate motorcycle license — the endorsement appears on your current driver's license. If you do not yet have a Texas driver's license, you will need to get one first before adding the endorsement.

Key Takeaways

  • Texas offers three routes to a motorcycle endorsement: the standard DPS written and riding tests, the MSI course waiver, or the MOTC course waiver.
  • The MSI and MOTC courses take one to two days, cost between $150 and $300, and waive both the written and riding tests at DPS.
  • If you take the standard DPS route, you must pass a written test at any DPS office, then schedule and pass a riding test at a DPS motorcycle testing location.
  • You must be at least 16 years old and have a valid Texas driver's license (or be may be able to access for one) before you can add a motorcycle endorsement.
  • The $20 endorsement fee is paid when you visit DPS to add it to your license after passing tests or completing a course.

The MSI and MOTC Course Route (Fastest Option)

The Motorcycle Safety Institute (MSI) and Motorcycle Operator Training Course (MOTC) are both approved by Texas and waive the DPS written and riding tests entirely. These courses run one to two days, usually on weekends, and teach you motorcycle operation, safety, and road skills in a classroom and on a practice range. You ride a provided motorcycle during the skills portion, so you do not need to own one yet. The cost ranges from $150 to $300 depending on the provider and location.

After you complete the course, the provider gives you a certificate of completion. You take that certificate to any DPS office, pay the $20 endorsement fee, and the endorsement is added to your license on the spot — no additional tests required. This route saves you the time of scheduling a separate DPS riding test, which can have a wait of several weeks in busy areas. Search for "MSI motorcycle course Texas" or "MOTC motorcycle course Texas" online to find providers near you; many community colleges and private training schools offer them.

The Standard DPS Written and Riding Test Route

If you do not take an MSI or MOTC course, you must pass both a written test and a riding test through DPS. The written test covers Texas motorcycle laws, safe riding practices, and road signs. You take it at any DPS office during regular hours — no appointment needed for the written test. The test has 25 questions, and you must answer at least 20 correctly to pass. Study materials are available on the DPS website under "Motorcycle Endorsement."

After you pass the written test, you must schedule a riding test at one of DPS's designated motorcycle testing locations. These locations are limited and vary by region; check the DPS website for the nearest one to you. The riding test evaluates your ability to control the motorcycle, perform basic maneuvers, and follow traffic laws. You must bring your own motorcycle or arrange to use one — DPS does not provide motorcycles for the riding test. The wait for a riding test appointment can be two to six weeks depending on your area.

What You Need to Bring to DPS

For the written test, bring your current Texas driver's license or ID, proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or 1099), and proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days). If you are under 18, you also need a parent or guardian present.

For the riding test, bring your motorcycle endorsement certificate (if you passed the written test), your current driver's license, proof of insurance for the motorcycle you will ride, and the motorcycle itself. The motorcycle must be street-legal and registered in Texas. If you are borrowing someone else's motorcycle, bring a notarized letter from the owner giving you permission to use it for the test.

If you completed an MSI or MOTC course, bring your certificate of completion and your current driver's license to any DPS office. You do not need to bring anything else — the office will add the endorsement and charge you $20.

Age Requirements and Restrictions

You must be at least 16 years old to get a motorcycle endorsement in Texas. If you are 16 or 17, you can get an endorsement, but it comes with restrictions: you cannot ride between midnight and 5 a.m., and you cannot carry passengers. These restrictions lift when you turn 18.

If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present when you visit DPS for the written test or to add the endorsement to your license. For the riding test, the parent or guardian does not need to be present, but DPS may require additional paperwork — call ahead to confirm.

Motorcycle Insurance and Registration

Before you ride a motorcycle on public roads in Texas, you must have liability insurance. Texas requires a minimum of $30,000 in bodily injury coverage per person, $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 in property damage coverage. You do not need insurance to take the riding test, but you must have it before you leave DPS with your endorsed license if you plan to ride home.

Your motorcycle must also be registered with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. Registration costs vary based on the motorcycle's weight and age but typically range from $40 to $90 for the first year. You can register your motorcycle at any DPS office or online through the Texas DMV website. Bring proof of ownership (title or bill of sale), proof of insurance, and proof of residency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the MSI or MOTC course if I do not own a motorcycle yet?

Yes. Both courses provide motorcycles for training, so you do not need to own one to take the course or pass the test. Many people take the course first, get their endorsement, and then buy a motorcycle afterward.

What happens if I fail the DPS riding test?

You can retake it. There is no limit on the number of attempts, but each attempt requires a new appointment and may have a wait. You do not need to retake the written test if you passed it previously — the written test pass is valid for one year.

Do I need a motorcycle endorsement to ride a moped or scooter in Texas?

It depends on engine size. Motorcycles with engines larger than 50 cubic centimeters require an endorsement. Mopeds and scooters with 50cc or smaller engines do not require an endorsement, but they do require a valid driver's license and registration.

Can I add a motorcycle endorsement to a learner's permit?

No. You must have a valid Class C driver's license before you can add a motorcycle endorsement. If you only have a learner's permit, you need to pass the DPS driving test and get your full license first.

How long does the endorsement last?

The motorcycle endorsement lasts as long as your driver's license. When you renew your driver's license, the endorsement renews with it at no additional cost.