The Missouri motorcycle license process takes about two weeks from start to finish, and you'll need to pass a written test, a riding skills test, and a vision screening
Missouri issues a motorcycle endorsement on your regular driver's license rather than a separate license. You can get it by passing the Department of Revenue's written exam and riding skills test, or by completing an approved motorcycle safety course that waives both tests. The written test covers road rules specific to motorcycles, and the riding test happens on a closed course where an examiner watches you perform basic maneuvers. Most people complete the entire process in one or two visits to a license office.
You must be at least 16 years old to get a motorcycle endorsement in Missouri. If you're under 18, you'll need a parent or guardian's signature on your process. You'll also need a valid Missouri driver's license or learner's permit before you can take the motorcycle tests.
Key Takeaways
- Missouri's motorcycle endorsement adds to your existing driver's license and requires passing a written test and a riding skills test on a closed course.
- You can skip both tests by completing an approved Motorcycle Safety Foundation course, which takes one or two days and costs between $150 and $250.
- The written test covers motorcycle-specific traffic laws and safety, and you can study using the free Missouri motorcycle manual available on the Department of Revenue website.
- The riding test evaluates basic skills like starting, stopping, turning, and swerving on a motorcycle provided by the testing facility.
- Bring your current driver's license, proof of residency, and a Social Security card or tax return to your license office appointment.
Taking the written test at a Missouri license office
The written test has 25 questions covering Missouri traffic laws, motorcycle handling, and safety practices. You need to answer at least 20 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and Spanish, and you can retake it the same day if you fail, though you'll pay the fee again.
Study material comes from the Missouri Motorcycle Operator Manual, which the Department of Revenue publishes free on its website. The manual covers topics like braking distance, how to position yourself in a lane, what to do in bad weather, and how to spot hazards other drivers might miss. Most people spend 3 to 5 hours studying before taking the test.
The test costs $10.50 and takes about 15 minutes. You can take it at any Missouri license office during regular business hours. No appointment is required for the written test, though wait times vary by location and time of day.
Passing the riding skills test
The riding test happens on a closed course and lasts about 10 to 15 minutes. An examiner watches you perform a series of maneuvers: starting the motorcycle, riding in a straight line, making left and right turns, stopping quickly, and swerving around an obstacle. You use a motorcycle provided by the testing facility, usually a standard 250cc or 500cc bike.
The examiner is looking for smooth control, proper braking, and awareness of the bike's position. Common reasons people fail include stalling the engine, dropping the bike, running wide on turns, or failing to complete a maneuver as instructed. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day for another $10.50 fee, though you may need to wait for the next available testing slot.
The riding test is offered at select Missouri license offices. Not every office has a testing course, so you may need to travel to a larger city. Call ahead to find the nearest location that offers motorcycle testing and to schedule your appointment, which is required for the riding test.
Completing a motorcycle safety course instead
Missouri recognizes courses taught by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation and similar approved programs. Completing one of these courses waives both the written test and the riding skills test. You'll receive a certificate of completion that you bring to a license office, and the endorsement is added to your license without further testing.
These courses typically run one or two days, with classroom instruction in the morning and on-bike training in the afternoon. You learn motorcycle basics, road positioning, emergency braking, and how to read traffic. The course provides the motorcycle for training, so you don't need to own one or bring your own bike.
Costs range from about $150 to $250 depending on the provider and location. Some insurance companies offer discounts on motorcycle premiums if you complete an approved safety course, which can offset the course fee within the first year. Search for "Motorcycle Safety Foundation course Missouri" to find providers near you.
Documents you'll need at the license office
Bring your current Missouri driver's license or learner's permit, proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card or a tax return), and proof of residency. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement with your name and address dated within the last 60 days.
If you're under 18, bring a parent or guardian with you to sign the process in person. You'll also need to complete form DL 43, the process for Missouri Driver's License or Noncommercial Driver's License, which you can fill out at the office or read from the Department of Revenue website beforehand.
The endorsement fee is $10.50 and is valid for the same renewal cycle as your current driver's license. If your license expires in two years, the motorcycle endorsement expires at the same time.
Timeline and what happens after you pass
If you pass the written test and riding test on the same day, the endorsement is added to your license when ready. You'll receive an updated license in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you complete a safety course, bring your certificate to any license office and the endorsement is added the same day.
Your new license will show an "M" endorsement, which indicates you're licensed to operate a motorcycle. This endorsement is valid in all 50 states and is recognized by law enforcement and insurance companies.
Once you have the endorsement, you can legally ride a motorcycle on public roads in Missouri. You'll still need to register your motorcycle with the Department of Revenue and carry proof of insurance, just like a car.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a motorcycle endorsement if I have a learner's permit instead of a full license?
Yes. You need a valid Missouri driver's license or learner's permit to take the motorcycle tests. If you have a learner's permit, you can get the motorcycle endorsement added to it. When you upgrade your learner's permit to a full license later, the motorcycle endorsement transfers over.
What if I fail the riding test?
You can retake it the same day for another $10.50 fee, though you may need to wait for the next available testing slot at that location. There's no limit on how many times you can retake it. Many people pass on their second or third attempt after practicing more.
Do I need to own a motorcycle to take the riding test?
No. The testing facility provides a motorcycle for the riding test. If you take a safety course instead, the course also provides bikes for training. You don't need to own a motorcycle until after you have your endorsement.
How long is the motorcycle endorsement valid?
The endorsement is valid for the same period as your driver's license. If your license expires in four years, your motorcycle endorsement expires at the same time. You renew them together.
Can I take the written test online?
No. The written test must be taken in person at a Missouri license office. You cannot take it online or by mail.