How to Get Your North Carolina Motorcycle License

Hold a motorcycle learner's permit

Riders 16-17 must first earn a motorcycle learner's permit, at a cost of $21.50.

Complete an approved motorcycle education course

Unlike adult riders, applicants under 18 must complete a motorcycle education course through the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) or the NC Motorcycle Safety Education Program (MSEP) — safety training isn't optional at this age.

• MSF/MSEP course completion (skills waiver card)

Pass the written knowledge test at an NCDMV office

Completing the MSEP course waives the on-road skills test, but you still must visit a local DMV office and pass the written knowledge exam before an endorsement is issued.

Receive your motorcycle endorsement

Once you pass the written test and present your course skills-waiver card, NCDMV adds the motorcycle endorsement to your license. The endorsement costs $2.55 per year of validity.

Hold a valid North Carolina driver's license

You need an NC standard driver's license, full provisional license, or commercial driver's license before adding the motorcycle endorsement.

Choose a path: MSF course or NCDMV skills test

Safety training isn't required for adult riders. You can complete an approved Motorcycle Safety Foundation Basic Rider Course (which waives the on-road skills test), present a valid out-of-state motorcycle endorsement or approved military motorcycle training, or skip the course and pass the NCDMV's own on-road motorcycle skills test directly.

Pass the written knowledge test at an NCDMV office

Regardless of which skills path you choose, you must still visit a local DMV office and pass the written knowledge exam before an endorsement is issued.

Receive your motorcycle endorsement

Once you've satisfied both the skills requirement (course, out-of-state credential, or DMV test) and the written test, NCDMV adds the motorcycle endorsement to your license. The endorsement costs $2.55 per year of validity.