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How to Get Your Illinois Motorcycle License

The actual step-by-step process, from application to full license — not just what's on the exam. Confirm anything time-sensitive (fees, forms) with Illinois SOS directly.

16-17

  1. Hold a valid driver's license or permit

    You must be at least 16 and already hold a valid Illinois automobile or motorcycle driver's license or permit to register for IDOT's rider training courses.

  2. Complete the IDOT Basic Rider Course (BRC)

    About 20 hours of free classroom and on-motorcycle instruction through Illinois' Cycle Rider Safety Training Program. You'll receive a completion card by mail, valid for one year.

    • BRC completion card

  3. Take the written and riding tests at the Secretary of State

    Unlike riders 18 and older, applicants 16-17 don't get a full test waiver from the BRC — you must still present your completion card and pass both the written knowledge test and riding test at a Driver Services facility.

  4. Receive your Class M endorsement

    Once you pass, the Secretary of State adds the Class M motorcycle endorsement to your license.

18 and Older

  1. Choose a path: IDOT rider course or direct testing

    Riders 18 and older can complete a free IDOT-approved Motorcycle Safety Course (Basic Rider Course, BRC2, or 3-wheel BRC), which fully waives the Secretary of State's written and riding tests, or skip the course and test directly at a Driver Services facility.

  2. Complete the course, if choosing that path

    The Basic Rider Course is about 20 hours of classroom and on-motorcycle instruction. You'll receive a completion card by mail, valid for one year as a full test waiver.

    • BRC/BRC2/3wBRC completion card (if using the waiver)

  3. Take the written and riding tests, if skipping the course

    Riders who don't complete a qualifying course must pass both the written knowledge test and an on-cycle riding test at a Secretary of State Driver Services facility.

  4. Receive your Class L or M endorsement

    Class L covers powered two-wheel vehicles under 150cc (mopeds, scooters); Class M covers full-size motorcycles. Present your course completion card, or pass both tests, to have the endorsement added to your license.

Notes

  • Illinois' Cycle Rider Safety Training Program courses are free to any resident 16 or older with a valid license or permit — a genuine differentiator from states where rider courses carry a $200+ fee.
  • Exact application fees change over time — confirm the current amount on the official Illinois SOS website before your appointment.

Last reviewed: 2026-07-14