What a motorcycle endorsement is and why you need one
A motorcycle endorsement is an addition to your Utah driver's license that permits you to operate a motorcycle, moped, or motorized bicycle on public roads. Without it, riding a motorcycle is illegal in Utah even if you own one. The endorsement appears on your license as an "M" designation and shows that you have passed both a written test and a skills test specific to motorcycle operation.
Utah law requires the endorsement for any two-wheeled motorized vehicle except certain low-powered mopeds under specific conditions. The endorsement process takes several weeks from start to finish and involves steps at the Utah Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and at an approved testing location.
Key Takeaways
- You must pass a written test and a riding skills test to receive a motorcycle endorsement; you cannot add it by written test alone.
- The riding test takes place at a DMV office or approved third-party testing location and requires you to bring your own motorcycle or use a loaner from an approved school.
- Utah offers a waiver of the riding test if you complete an approved Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course, which also reduces your insurance costs.
- The endorsement costs $20 and is added to your existing license; you do not receive a new physical license card unless you renew it.
- You must be at least 16 years old and hold a valid Utah driver's license before you can test for the endorsement.
The written test and what it covers
The motorcycle written test is administered at any Utah DMV office and covers Utah traffic law as it applies to motorcycles, safe riding practices, and hazard recognition. The test contains 25 questions, and you must answer at least 20 correctly to pass. You can take the test the same day you visit the DMV office; no advance scheduling is required for the written portion.
The test draws from the Utah Driver's Manual motorcycle section, which is available free on the DMV website. Topics include proper braking technique, how to handle skids, lane positioning, visibility to other drivers, and Utah-specific rules about helmet requirements and eye protection. You may retake the written test if you do not pass, though most DMV offices require you to wait a day before your next attempt.
The riding skills test and where to take it
After you pass the written test, you must schedule a riding skills test at a DMV office or an approved third-party testing location. The test is a practical demonstration of your ability to control a motorcycle safely. You will be asked to perform specific maneuvers such as figure-eights, quick stops, and swerves while an examiner observes and scores your performance.
For the riding test, you must bring a street-legal motorcycle that is registered and insured in Utah, or you may use a motorcycle provided by an approved training school. Many riders use motorcycles from MSF-certified schools because the school handles insurance and liability. The test takes about 20 minutes of actual riding time, though the full appointment may last an hour. DMV offices typically have waiting lists for riding tests that range from two to eight weeks depending on location and season.
Waiving the riding test with an MSF course
Utah allows you to waive the riding skills test if you complete a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Basic Rider Course or an equivalent approved course. The MSF course is a two-day classroom and hands-on program that teaches motorcycle control, hazard awareness, and decision-making. Upon completion, you receive a course completion certificate that you present to the DMV along with your passing written test score.
Taking the MSF course instead of the DMV riding test offers two advantages: it eliminates the long wait for a test appointment, and most motorcycle insurance companies offer a discount (typically 5 to 10 percent) for riders who have completed the course. The course costs between $150 and $250 depending on the school and location. MSF courses are offered year-round at multiple locations across Utah through private training schools and some community colleges.
Cost and timeline for the endorsement
The endorsement itself costs $20 and is processed when ready once you pass both the written and riding tests (or the written test plus MSF course). This fee is separate from any DMV license renewal fees. If you are adding the endorsement to an existing license that is not expiring soon, you will not need to pay for a new license card; the endorsement is straightforward noted in the DMV system.
The total timeline depends on which route you choose. If you take the MSF course first, you can complete it in two days, then visit the DMV to pass the written test and pay the $20 fee on the same day—total time about one week. If you take the DMV riding test instead, you will pass the written test first, then wait for an available riding test appointment, which typically adds two to eight weeks. Plan ahead if you need the endorsement by a specific date.
What to bring to the DMV for the written test
Bring your current Utah driver's license or state ID, proof of residency (a utility bill or lease agreement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security number. If your license is expired, you may still test for the endorsement, but you will need to renew your license at the same time. Bring any documents required for license renewal, such as proof of citizenship or legal residency if you are not a U.S. citizen.
For the riding test, bring your motorcycle's registration and proof of insurance. If you are using a motorcycle from a training school, bring the school's documentation showing that the motorcycle is insured and that you are authorized to use it for testing. Bring your passing written test score or receipt showing you passed. Wear a helmet, long pants, closed-toe shoes, and a jacket—the DMV will not allow you to test without proper protective gear.
Renewing or replacing a license with a motorcycle endorsement
Once you have the endorsement, it remains on your license for as long as your license is valid. When your license expires, you renew it through the normal DMV renewal process; the endorsement carries over automatically and does not need to be reearned or retested. If your license is lost or stolen, the replacement license will include the endorsement at no additional cost.
If you move out of Utah and later return, you will need to retake both the written and riding tests to add the endorsement to a new Utah license. If you already hold a valid motorcycle endorsement from another state and move to Utah, you may be able to transfer it without retesting—contact your local DMV office to confirm the process for your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ride a motorcycle with just a regular driver's license while I wait for my test appointment?
No. Riding without the endorsement is illegal in Utah, even on private property that is open to the public. You must have the endorsement on your license before you operate any motorcycle on a road or public area. This applies even if you have already passed the written test and are waiting for the riding test.
Do I need a motorcycle endorsement for a moped or motorized bicycle?
It depends on the engine size and design. Mopeds with engines 50cc or smaller may not require an endorsement under certain conditions, but motorized bicycles and larger mopeds do. Check the Utah DMV website or call your local office with your vehicle's specifications to confirm whether you need the endorsement.
What happens if I fail the riding test?
You can retake the riding test after waiting a set period (usually one day). There is no additional fee for retakes. Many riders schedule a lesson or practice session between attempts. If you fail multiple times, taking an MSF course before your next attempt may help you build skills and confidence.
Can I use someone else's motorcycle for the riding test?
Yes, as long as the motorcycle is registered and insured in Utah and the owner gives you permission. The motorcycle must be street-legal and in safe working condition. Many riders borrow from friends or family, but using a motorcycle from an MSF-approved school is simpler because the school handles all liability and insurance questions.
How long does the motorcycle endorsement stay on my license?
The endorsement remains valid for the entire life of your license. You do not need to renew it separately or retake tests unless your license expires and you renew it (the endorsement carries over) or you move to another state and explore for a new license there.