What you need to ride a motorcycle in Illinois
Illinois requires a separate endorsement on your driver's license to operate a motorcycle legally on public roads. You cannot ride with just a standard driver's license. The endorsement is called an M endorsement, and you get it through the Illinois Secretary of State by passing a written test, a vision test, and a riding skills test.
The process differs depending on whether you already hold a valid Illinois driver's license. If you do, you can add the M endorsement without retesting your general driving knowledge. If you do not have an Illinois license yet, you will take the motorcycle tests as part of your full licensing process.
You must be at least 16 years old to get an M endorsement in Illinois. Riders under 18 have additional restrictions: they cannot ride between midnight and 5 a.m., and they must wear a helmet at all times. Riders 18 and older are not legally required to wear a helmet, though it is strongly recommended.
Key Takeaways
- Illinois requires an M endorsement on your driver's license to ride any motorcycle, moped, or motorized bicycle on public roads.
- You must pass a written test, vision screening, and a riding skills test administered by the Secretary of State or an approved third-party testing site.
- If you already hold an Illinois driver's license, you can add the M endorsement without retesting your general driving knowledge.
- Riders under 18 must wear a helmet and cannot ride between midnight and 5 a.m.; riders 18 and older may choose whether to wear a helmet.
- The riding skills test uses a motorcycle provided by the testing site, so you do not need to bring your own bike.
The written test and what it covers
The motorcycle written test is administered by the Illinois Secretary of State and covers road signs, traffic laws, and motorcycle-specific safety. The test has 25 questions, and you must answer at least 20 correctly to pass. You can retake it the same day if you fail, though you will pay the test fee again.
The test focuses on topics that explore specifically to motorcycle operation: how to brake on a motorcycle, how to handle curves, what to do if your brakes fail, how to position yourself in a lane, and how to spot hazards that affect motorcycles differently than cars. You will also see standard road sign and traffic law questions.
You can study using the Illinois Motorcycle Operator Manual, which is free and available on the Secretary of State website. Many riders also use online practice tests to prepare. The manual covers everything the test covers, so studying it thoroughly is the most direct way to prepare.
The vision test and medical requirements
Before you take the written test, you must pass a vision screening. The Secretary of State checks that you can see at least 20/40 in each eye, with or without corrective lenses. If you wear glasses or contacts, you must wear them during the test and during any riding you do.
Illinois does not require a medical exam or doctor's sign-off to get an M endorsement. However, you should be honest with yourself about any condition that affects your ability to operate a motorcycle safely—balance problems, seizure disorders, or medications that cause drowsiness are examples. The state does not screen for these, but they can kill you.
The riding skills test: what happens and what to expect
The riding skills test is a practical exam where you demonstrate that you can control a motorcycle safely. The test is administered at a Secretary of State facility or at an approved third-party testing site. You do not bring your own motorcycle; the testing site provides one for you to use during the exam.
The test takes place in a closed course, not on public roads. You will perform a series of maneuvers: starting the bike, riding in a straight line, making turns, stopping quickly, and swerving to avoid an obstacle. An examiner watches and scores you on control, balance, and your ability to follow instructions. You must demonstrate that you can handle the bike without dropping it, losing control, or putting yourself or the examiner at risk.
If you fail the riding test, you can retake it, usually within a few days. Many people pass on their second or third attempt. The test is designed to measure basic competence, not informed riding. If you have ridden a motorcycle before and can control it in a parking lot, you are likely ready.
Where to take the tests and what to bring
Written and vision tests are offered at Secretary of State Driver Services facilities across Illinois. You can find the location nearest you on the Secretary of State website. Some facilities also administer the riding skills test on-site; others refer you to an approved third-party testing provider.
Bring a valid form of identification—your current driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Bring proof of your Social Security number if you do not have a Social Security card with you. If you are under 18, bring a parent or guardian's written consent on the form provided by the Secretary of State.
For the riding skills test, wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, closed-toe shoes, and a helmet. The testing site will provide the helmet if you do not have one. Do not wear loose clothing that could catch on the bike. Arrive early so you have time to familiarize yourself with the motorcycle before the test begins.
Costs and how long it takes
The written test fee is $10. The vision screening is included with the written test. The riding skills test fee varies by testing site but is typically between $15 and $25. If you are adding the M endorsement to an existing Illinois driver's license, there is no additional license fee; the endorsement is added at no charge.
If you are getting your first Illinois driver's license and adding the M endorsement at the same time, you will pay the standard driver's license fee, which varies by license type and validity period. A standard four-year driver's license costs $30; an eight-year license costs $95.
You can usually complete the written and vision tests in one visit, taking 15 to 30 minutes. The riding skills test is scheduled separately and takes about 20 to 30 minutes from start to finish. Many people complete all three tests within a week or two, though scheduling depends on availability at your local testing site.
Motorcycle endorsement restrictions and renewal
Once you have your M endorsement, it appears on your driver's license and is valid as long as your license is valid. When you renew your driver's license, the M endorsement renews automatically—you do not have to retake the tests.
Illinois does not impose restrictions on the type or size of motorcycle you can ride once you have the M endorsement. You can ride any motorcycle, including large-displacement bikes, as long as you are at least 16 years old. However, riders under 18 must still follow the helmet and nighttime riding restrictions.
If your license is suspended or revoked, your M endorsement is suspended or revoked along with it. If you are convicted of certain traffic violations or DUI, your license may be suspended, which means you cannot legally ride until the suspension is lifted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the riding skills test on my own motorcycle?
No. The riding skills test must be taken on a motorcycle provided by the testing site. This ensures the examiner is familiar with the bike and can fairly evaluate your control. You can practice on your own motorcycle beforehand, but the test itself uses the site's bike.
What if I fail the riding skills test?
You can retake it. Most testing sites allow you to schedule another attempt within a few days. There is no limit on how many times you can retake it, though you will pay the test fee each time. Many riders pass on their second or third attempt after practicing more.
Do I need to take a motorcycle safety course to get the M endorsement?
No, it is not required by Illinois law. However, taking a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course or similar training can help you prepare for the riding test and is a good idea for your own safety. Some insurance companies offer discounts if you complete an approved safety course.
Can I ride a moped or motorized bicycle with just a regular driver's license?
It depends on the engine size. Motorized bicycles with engines 50cc or smaller do not require an M endorsement in Illinois. Anything larger than 50cc requires the M endorsement. Mopeds are classified by engine size, so check your bike's specifications to know for sure.
What happens if I ride without an M endorsement?
Riding a motorcycle without the required endorsement is a traffic violation in Illinois. You can be ticketed, fined, and your vehicle can be impounded. Your insurance will not cover an accident if you were riding illegally. The fine and legal consequences make it worth taking the tests.