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How to Get Your Michigan 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 Michigan SOS directly.

Under 18

  1. Apply for a Temporary Instruction Permit (TIP)

    Michigan sets the minimum TIP age at 16, two years older than the 14-years-9-months minimum for a car learner's license.

    • Parent/guardian consent, if applicable

  2. Practice only within TIP restrictions

    No night riding, no passengers, and constant visual supervision by a licensed motorcycle operator 18 or older — every time you ride on a TIP.

  3. Complete an approved motorcycle safety course

    Mandatory for every rider under 18 before an original endorsement can be issued, regardless of how much riding experience they already have.

    • Motorcycle safety course completion card

  4. Add the motorcycle endorsement to your license

    Once the course is complete and any remaining SOS requirements are met, the motorcycle endorsement is added to your license.

18 and Older

  1. Apply for a Temporary Instruction Permit (TIP), if you need practice time

    The same TIP restrictions apply regardless of age: no night riding, no passengers, and constant visual supervision by a licensed rider 18 or older.

  2. Choose a path: safety course or direct SOS testing

    Completing an approved motorcycle safety course waives the written knowledge test, sign-recognition portion, and skills test. Riders who skip the course must pass all of it directly at an SOS office.

  3. Pass the written and skills tests, if testing directly

    The written test is 25 questions with an 80% passing threshold. Failing the skills test twice makes completing an approved safety course mandatory before any further attempt.

  4. Add the motorcycle endorsement to your license

    Present your course completion card, or pass both official tests, and the Secretary of State adds the motorcycle endorsement to your existing license.

Notes

  • Michigan's helmet law is conditional, not a simple age cutoff: riders under 21 must always wear a DOT-compliant helmet, while riders 21 and older are exempt only if they meet an experience-or-course condition AND carry at least $20,000 in medical benefits coverage — a passenger must independently meet the same conditions.
  • Exact course providers, fees, and scheduling change over time — confirm the current process on the official Michigan SOS website before you ride.

Last reviewed: 2026-07-20