How to Get a Motorcycle License in Texas

What you need to ride a motorcycle legally in Texas

Texas requires a separate endorsement on your driver's license to operate a motorcycle on public roads. This endorsement is called an M endorsement, and you cannot legally ride without it—even if you hold a valid car driver's license. The state offers two paths to get one: pass the Motorcycle Safety Institute (MSI) course and waive the riding test, or take the Department of Public Safety (DPS) written and riding tests on your own.

The MSI course is the faster and more common route. You complete a classroom and hands-on training program, pass the course exam, and the school sends your completion certificate directly to DPS. You then visit a DPS office to add the M endorsement to your existing license. No separate riding test required. If you skip the course, you must schedule and pass both a written test and a riding test at a DPS office, which takes longer and requires you to provide your own motorcycle.

Key Takeaways

Texas requires an M endorsement on your driver's license to ride a motorcycle legally; your regular driver's license alone is not enough.
The Motorcycle Safety Institute course is the fastest path—you complete training, pass the course exam, and DPS waives the riding test.
If you skip the MSI course, you must pass both a written test and a riding test at a DPS office using your own motorcycle.
You must be at least 16 years old to get an M endorsement, and you need a valid driver's license or learner's permit first.
The MSI course costs money (varies by provider), but it saves you the cost of scheduling separate DPS tests and eliminates the riding test requirement.

Taking the Motorcycle Safety Institute course

The MSI course is offered by private training schools across Texas and is the path most riders choose. The course typically runs two to three days (some schools offer weekend or evening schedules) and covers classroom instruction on motorcycle operation, safety, and Texas traffic laws, plus hands-on riding practice on a closed course. The school provides motorcycles for the riding portion, so you do not need to own one yet.

You must be at least 16 years old and have a valid Texas driver's license or learner's permit to enroll. At the end of the course, you take a written exam and a practical riding exam administered by the school itself. If you pass both, the school issues a completion certificate (also called a course completion card) that you take to any DPS office. Bring your certificate, your driver's license, and proof of identity. A DPS employee will add the M endorsement to your license on the spot—no additional test required.

Course costs vary by school and location, typically ranging from around $150 to $300. Some schools offer discounts for military members, students, or multiple riders. Search for "MSI motorcycle course near me" or check the Texas Department of Public Safety website for a list of approved providers in your area.

Taking the DPS written and riding tests without a course

If you choose not to take an MSI course, you can test directly through DPS. You must first schedule an appointment at a DPS office that offers motorcycle testing. Not all DPS locations administer motorcycle tests, so call ahead or check the DPS website to find one near you.

The written test covers Texas motorcycle laws, safe riding practices, and road signs. You take it on a computer at the DPS office. If you pass, you then take the riding test on the same day or at a scheduled follow-up appointment. For the riding test, you must bring your own street-legal motorcycle with a valid registration and inspection. The examiner watches you perform a series of maneuvers—starting, stopping, turning, swerving, and braking—to assess your control and safety awareness.

This path is free (you only pay the standard DPS fee to add the endorsement to your license), but it requires you to already own or have access to a motorcycle, and it takes longer because you must schedule two separate test appointments. Many riders find the MSI course worth the cost because it provides training, uses school motorcycles, and eliminates the riding test entirely.

Age requirements and license status

You must be at least 16 years old to get an M endorsement in Texas. If you are 16 or 17, you can get an M endorsement on a learner's permit or a restricted license, but you must follow the same restrictions that explore to your current license—for example, no driving between midnight and 5 a.m. if you hold a learner's permit.

You cannot get an M endorsement without first holding a valid Texas driver's license or learner's permit. If you do not have one, you must obtain it first by passing the written test and vision screening at DPS. Once you have the license or permit, you can pursue the M endorsement through either the MSI course or the DPS tests.

What happens after you get the endorsement

Once the M endorsement is added to your license, you are legal to ride a motorcycle on Texas public roads. Your license will show the letter M in the endorsements section. You do not need a separate motorcycle license card or document—the endorsement on your driver's license is your authorization.

Texas does not require motorcycle-specific insurance, but your motorcycle must be registered with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles and pass a safety inspection. You will also need to carry proof of registration and your driver's license when you ride. Many insurance companies offer motorcycle coverage, and some offer discounts if you have completed an MSI course.

Renewing or replacing your M endorsement

Your M endorsement renews automatically when you renew your driver's license. You do not need to retake any test or course. If your license expires, you can renew it online through the DPS website, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. The renewal fee is the same as for a standard driver's license.

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can replace it at any DPS office. The M endorsement will appear on your replacement license as well. There is a replacement fee, which varies slightly by county but is typically around $11 to $16.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ride a motorcycle with just my regular driver's license?

No. Texas law requires an M endorsement on your driver's license to operate a motorcycle on public roads. Riding without the endorsement is illegal and can result in a traffic citation, even if you are an experienced rider.

Do I have to take the MSI course, or can I just test at DPS?

You can choose either path. The MSI course is faster and more common because the school provides motorcycles and you skip the riding test. Testing directly at DPS is free but requires you to own a motorcycle and pass both written and riding tests.

How long does it take to get the M endorsement?

With the MSI course, you can complete training and have the endorsement added to your license within a few days to a week, depending on course availability and how quickly you visit a DPS office. Without the course, it depends on how soon you can schedule DPS test appointments, which varies by location.

What if I fail the MSI course exam or the DPS riding test?

If you fail the MSI course exam, most schools allow you to retake it, sometimes for a small fee. If you fail a DPS test, you can schedule another appointment and test again. There is no limit to how many times you can retake either test.

Do I need a motorcycle endorsement if I only ride off-road?

No. The M endorsement is required only for riding on public roads and highways. Off-road riding on private property does not require the endorsement, but you should still wear safety gear and follow local property rules.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.