How to Get a Motorcycle License in Missouri

Riding a motorcycle brings freedom, adventure, and a fresh perspective on Missouri’s beautiful roads. But before you take off, you’ll need the right license. Learn how to get a motorcycle license in Missouri from our motorcycle accident attorneys.

What Is a Motorcycle in Missouri?

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a motorized bicycle is defined as a two or three-wheeled device with:

• An automatic transmission;
• A motor with cylinder capacity of not more than 50cc;
• It produces less than three gross brake horsepower; and
• It’s capable of propelling the device at a maximum speed of not more than 30 mph on level ground.

Any device that exceeds these classifications is considered a motorcycle and requires licensing as such. For example, a motorcycle has an engine over 50cc and can travel faster than 30 mph.

Motorcycle Licensing Options in Missouri

According to the Missouri Department of Revenue, in Missouri, there are two types of motorcycle licenses:

1. A motorcycle instruction permit allows new riders to practice riding under certain restrictions.
2. A Class M motorcycle endorsement added to a standard driver’s license, or Class M license, allows the holder to legally operate motorcycles after passing Class F and Class M written, vision, road sign, and skills tests.

How to Get a Motorcycle Instruction Permit

To get a Missouri motorcycle instruction permit, you must take a written test, vision test, and road sign test at a Missouri State Highway Patrol examination station.

Age Requirements

If you are under 18, you can still qualify for a motorcycle instruction permit starting at the age of 15 years and 182 days. If you’re under 16, you will need to complete a motorcycle rider training course (MRTC). A Missouri motorcycle permit allows new riders to practice under certain restrictions before they apply for a full Missouri motorcycle license. Applicants under 18 will also need a parent or legal guardian’s signature.

What Restrictions Apply to Motorcycle Permit Holders?

If you’re under 16, you must abide by the following restrictions:

• Your engine cannot have a displacement of greater than 250cc.
• You must not have passengers.
• You cannot go farther than 50 miles from your home address.
• You must only drive in daylight.

The Missouri motorcycle permit is valid for six months and can be renewed if you need more road safety practice before applying for a full license.

What Is a Motorcycle Endorsement in Missouri? 

Rather than being a separate license, a motorcycle endorsement in Missouri is added to your existing driver’s license and allows you to legally operate a motorcycle. To apply for a motorcycle license, you must be at least 18 years old.

How Do I Get My Motorcycle Endorsement?

According to the Missouri Motorcycle Safety Program, there are two main ways to get a motorcycle endorsement after obtaining your permit.  

1. Pass the Beginner Rider Course or the H-D New Rider Course

Passing one of these motorcycle safety courses will waive additional skills tests. You can simply present your completion card to a Missouri license office within a year of completion to obtain your Class M endorsement.

2. Take the Skills Test on Your Own

You can also take the written and road test on your own at an approved testing site, but you will need to bring your own motorcycle.

Once you’ve passed the motorcycle skills test or course, you can choose between a three-year license or a six-year license.

What Are Missouri Motorcycle Helmet Laws?

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Missouri law requires anyone with a motorcycle permit under the age of 26 to wear DOT-approved headgear.

Riders with a motorcycle endorsement and passengers who are at least 26 years old are not required to wear a helmet if they have proof of medical insurance coverage.

What Are Missouri Motorcycle Insurance Requirements?

In Missouri, motorcycles are considered motor vehicles, so motorcyclists must carry minimum liability insurance: $25,000 for one person’s injuries, $50,000 for all injuries in an accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident.

Getting Help If You’re in a Motorcycle Accident in Missouri

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a motorcycle accident due to someone else’s negligence, contact us for assistance. Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries, making it crucial to have an experienced attorney to protect your rights.