How to Get a Motorcycle License in Virginia

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

You cannot ride a motorcycle on public roads in Virginia with only a standard driver's license. You need an M-class endorsement, which the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) adds to your existing license. This endorsement shows you have passed both a written test and a riding skills test specific to motorcycles.

The path to getting this endorsement depends on whether you already hold a Virginia driver's license and whether you take a state-approved safety course. Taking an approved course can waive the riding test requirement, which is the fastest route for most people.

Key Takeaways

Virginia requires an M-class endorsement to ride a motorcycle legally, obtained through the DMV.
You can skip the riding test by completing a state-approved Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course, which takes one or two days.
If you take the riding test through the DMV instead of a course, you must provide your own motorcycle and helmet that meet Virginia standards.
The written test covers Virginia motorcycle laws, safe riding practices, and hazard recognition.
You must be at least 16 years old to get an M-class endorsement in Virginia.

The fastest route: Taking an MSF-approved safety course

The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course is the quickest way to get your endorsement because passing it waives the DMV riding test. Virginia recognizes MSF Basic Rider Course (BRC) and MSF Experienced Rider Course (ERC) certifications. The BRC is for new riders and typically runs 16 hours over two days (or sometimes spread across three evenings). The ERC is for riders with some experience and focuses on advanced skills.

When you complete an MSF course, you receive a certificate of completion. You take this certificate to your local DMV office along with your written test fee (currently $7) and your driver's license. You still take the written test at the DMV, but you skip the riding portion. Many people complete the course on a weekend and visit the DMV the following week.

To find MSF courses near you, search the official MSF website or contact Virginia motorcycle safety instructors directly. Some community colleges, motorcycle dealerships, and independent training schools offer these courses. Costs vary but typically range from $150 to $250 for the course itself, separate from the DMV fee.

Taking the DMV riding test without a safety course

If you do not take an MSF course, you must pass the DMV riding test to get your endorsement. This test is administered at a DMV location and evaluates your ability to control a motorcycle, brake safely, turn, and navigate obstacles. The test takes about 20 minutes and is performed on a closed course, not public roads.

To take the riding test, you must bring your own motorcycle and helmet. Your motorcycle must be street-legal and registered in Virginia (or have valid out-of-state registration). Your helmet must meet Department of Transportation (DOT) standards. You also need to show proof of insurance for the motorcycle. If you do not own a motorcycle, you cannot take this route—you would need to either borrow one or take the MSF course instead.

You still take the written test at the DMV regardless of which path you choose. The written test covers Virginia motorcycle laws, safe riding techniques, and hazard awareness. You can study using the Virginia DMV Motorcycle Manual, available free on the DMV website.

What you need to bring to the DMV

For the written test, bring your current Virginia driver's license (or valid ID if you do not yet have one), proof of Social Security number, and proof of Virginia residency. If you are under 18, you may need a parent or guardian present depending on your license class.

If you are taking the riding test at the DMV, also bring your motorcycle, helmet, proof of registration, and proof of insurance. If you are bringing an MSF certificate instead, bring that in addition to your ID and residency proof.

The written test fee is $7. There is no separate fee for the riding test if you take it at the DMV. If you pass both tests, the DMV adds the M-class endorsement to your license on the spot, and you pay a small endorsement fee (currently $7).

Age requirements and restrictions for new riders

You must be at least 16 years old to get an M-class endorsement in Virginia. If you are 16 or 17, you are subject to Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) restrictions that limit when and how you can ride. These restrictions include nighttime riding limitations and restrictions on carrying passengers.

Once you turn 18, the GDL restrictions lift and you have full riding privileges. If you are already 18 or older when you get your endorsement, you have no riding restrictions beyond standard traffic laws.

Renewing or transferring your motorcycle endorsement

Your M-class endorsement renews with your driver's license. When your license expires, you renew it at the DMV, and the endorsement carries forward automatically—you do not need to retake the test. You can renew online, by mail, or in person depending on your situation.

If you move to Virginia from another state and already have a motorcycle endorsement, you can transfer it when you get a Virginia driver's license. Bring your out-of-state license and proof of residency to the DMV. You will not need to retake the test, though you may need to pass a written test on Virginia-specific motorcycle laws depending on the reciprocity agreement with your previous state.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ride a motorcycle with a learner's permit?

No. A learner's permit does not include motorcycle riding privileges. You must have the M-class endorsement on your driver's license to ride a motorcycle on public roads in Virginia, even with restrictions.

What if I fail the written test or riding test?

You can retake either test. There is typically a waiting period of a few days before you can test again. You pay the test fee each time you retake it. Many people study the Virginia DMV Motorcycle Manual between attempts or take an MSF course if they failed the riding test.

Do I need to own a motorcycle before I get my endorsement?

No. You can get the endorsement before you buy a motorcycle. If you take the MSF course route, you do not need to own one at all—the course provides motorcycles. If you take the DMV riding test, you need to borrow or rent one for the test.

Can I get a motorcycle endorsement if I do not have a driver's license yet?

You need a valid driver's license or learner's permit first. If you do not have one, you must get a standard driver's license before you can add the M-class endorsement. You can take the MSF course before you have your license, but you cannot test at the DMV until you do.

How long does the whole process take?

With an MSF course, you can complete the course in one or two days and visit the DMV the following week, so roughly one to two weeks total. Without a course, it depends on how quickly you can schedule the DMV riding test, which varies by location but is often available within a few weeks.

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.