Minnesota requires a separate endorsement on your driver's license to ride a motorcycle legally

You cannot ride a motorcycle on public roads in Minnesota with just a regular driver's license. You need an M endorsement added to your existing license, or you can get a motorcycle-only license if you do not drive cars. The state offers two paths: pass the written and riding tests through the Department of Public Safety, or take an approved motorcycle safety course that waives the riding test.

The written test covers road signs, motorcycle-specific rules, and safe riding practices. The riding test happens on a closed course with a trained examiner watching you perform basic maneuvers. Most people find the course route faster and less stressful because instructors teach you what the test will cover, and you pass the riding portion as part of the class.

Key Takeaways

  • Minnesota requires an M endorsement on your driver's license or a motorcycle-only license to ride legally on public roads.
  • You can test through the Department of Public Safety or take an approved Motorcycle Safety Foundation course that waives the riding test.
  • The MSF course costs between $200 and $300, takes one to three days, and includes classroom time, riding instruction, and the written test.
  • If you test through the state, you must pass a written test and a riding test on a closed course at a Driver and Vehicle Services office.
  • You must be at least 16 years old, have a valid Minnesota ID or proof of residency, and pass a vision screening.

The motorcycle safety course route (faster for most people)

Taking an approved Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course is the most common path in Minnesota. The course teaches you to ride, covers Minnesota traffic law, and includes the written test. When you pass the course, you receive a completion certificate that you take to any Driver and Vehicle Services office to add the M endorsement to your license—no additional testing required.

Courses run one to three days depending on the provider and schedule. You typically spend four to six hours in the classroom learning rules and hazard awareness, then four to six hours on a motorcycle practicing in a controlled lot. The course uses small training motorcycles (usually 250cc or smaller), so you do not need to own a bike or have prior riding experience.

Costs vary by provider but generally run $200 to $300. Some community colleges, vocational schools, and private riding schools offer MSF courses. You can search for courses near you on the Motorcycle Safety Foundation website or by calling your local Driver and Vehicle Services office for a list of approved instructors in your area.

Testing directly through the Department of Public Safety

If you choose not to take a course, you can test through Minnesota's Department of Public Safety. You must pass a written test first, then schedule a separate riding test on a closed course at a Driver and Vehicle Services office.

The written test has 40 questions covering Minnesota traffic laws, motorcycle handling, and safe riding practices. You need 32 correct answers to pass. You can study using the Minnesota Motorcycle Operator Manual, which is free and available online or in print at any Driver and Vehicle Services office. Many people study the manual for one to two weeks before testing.

The riding test takes place on a closed course and lasts about 15 minutes. An examiner watches you perform a series of maneuvers: starting the bike, riding in a straight line, making turns, braking, and swerving to avoid an obstacle. You must demonstrate control and safe technique. If you fail, you can retake it, but you must wait at least one day before your next attempt.

What you need to bring to the test or course

For either route, bring a valid Minnesota driver's license or state ID. If you do not have one, bring proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and address) plus a passport or birth certificate. You will also need to pass a vision screening at the office or during the course.

If you are testing at a Driver and Vehicle Services office for the riding test, you must provide your own motorcycle or arrange to use one. Some offices have loaner bikes, but availability is limited—call ahead to ask. The bike must be street-legal and registered in Minnesota, or you can use a training bike from an MSF course provider.

Wear protective gear for the riding test: a helmet (required by law), eye protection, long sleeves, long pants, and over-the-ankle boots or shoes. Gloves are strongly recommended. If you take an MSF course, the provider usually has helmets available, but you may need to bring your own jacket and pants.

Age requirements and restrictions for new riders

You must be at least 16 years old to get an M endorsement in Minnesota. If you are under 18, you are subject to graduated licensing restrictions that explore to all new drivers in the state, not just motorcyclists.

Riders under 18 cannot carry passengers and face restrictions on when they can ride (no riding between midnight and 5 a.m. unless traveling to or from work or a school event). These restrictions lift when you turn 18 or after you have held your license for one year, whichever comes first. If you are 18 or older when you get your M endorsement, these restrictions do not explore.

After you pass: adding the endorsement to your license

If you took an MSF course, bring your completion certificate to any Driver and Vehicle Services office. If you passed the state tests, the office will have your test results on file. Either way, you will pay a fee to add the M endorsement to your license. The fee varies but is typically $10 to $20 for an endorsement addition.

You can do this in person at any Driver and Vehicle Services office during business hours. Processing usually takes a few minutes, and you will receive an updated license with the M endorsement printed on it. Some offices allow you to renew or update your license online, but adding a new endorsement typically requires an in-person visit.

Your M endorsement remains valid as long as your driver's license is valid. When you renew your license, the endorsement renews with it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to own a motorcycle to get my license?

No. If you take an MSF course, the provider supplies training motorcycles. If you test through the state, you can use a loaner bike from the office if available, or borrow one from someone else—it just needs to be street-legal and registered. You do not need to own a bike until after you pass and have your license.

Can I get a motorcycle-only license instead of an endorsement?

Yes. If you do not have a regular driver's license and do not plan to drive cars, you can get a motorcycle-only license. The requirements and testing are the same—you still need to pass the written test and either take an MSF course or pass the riding test. You will explore for a motorcycle-only license instead of adding an endorsement to an existing license.

What happens if I fail the riding test?

You can retake it after waiting at least one day. There is no limit to how many times you can test, though you will pay the test fee each time. Many people pass on their second or third attempt. If you failed because of nerves or unfamiliar bike handling, taking an MSF course before retesting often helps.

Is the MSF course the same everywhere in Minnesota?

The curriculum is standardized by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, so the content is the same. However, course length, schedule, and cost vary by provider. Some offer weekend courses, others offer weeknight classes. Call ahead to find a schedule that works for you and confirm the current cost.

Do I need to take a road test on actual streets?

No. Both the MSF course and the state riding test happen on closed courses or parking lots, not on public roads. This is intentional—it lets you practice without traffic. Once you have your license, you are responsible for practicing on real roads before riding in heavy traffic.