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How to Get Your Texas 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 Texas DPS directly.

Under 18

  1. Complete driver education and hold a Class C learner license

    Applicants under 18 must have already completed driver education for a Class C license, including in-class instruction, and if you're 15-17, bring a parent/legal guardian and a Verification of Enrollment and Attendance (Form VOE) from your school.

    • Driver education completion certificate
    • Verification of Enrollment and Attendance (VOE)

  2. Complete the Motorcycle Safety Course

    About 10 hours of combined classroom and on-bike training covering basic controls, braking, cornering, swerving, and Texas motorcycle traffic laws. You'll receive a completion certificate (MSB-8), valid for 24 months.

    • Motorcycle Safety Course completion certificate (MSB-8)

  3. Apply for your motorcycle learner license

    At 15, you're restricted to motorcycles of 250cc or less; that restriction lifts on your 16th birthday. Bring your safety course certificate and required documents to a Texas DPS office.

    • Proof of identity
    • Social Security number
    • Proof of Texas residency

  4. Pass the written knowledge test

    Even with a completed safety course, minors must still pass the motorcycle-specific written test at DPS.

  5. Pass the on-bike skills test

    Unlike adult applicants, minors must still pass the DPS road skills exam to remove the motorcycle learner restriction, even after completing the safety course.

  6. Receive your Class M license

    Once you pass, DPS adds the Class M motorcycle classification to your license.

18 and Older

  1. Complete the Motorcycle Safety Course

    About 10 hours of combined classroom and on-bike training covering basic controls, braking, cornering, swerving, and Texas motorcycle traffic laws. You'll receive a completion certificate (MSB-8), valid for 24 months.

    • Motorcycle Safety Course completion certificate (MSB-8)

  2. Apply at a DPS office

    Bring your safety course completion certificate along with proof of identity, your Social Security number, and proof of Texas residency. If you already hold a Class C license, completing the safety course waives both the written and skills tests.

    • Motorcycle Safety Course completion certificate
    • Proof of identity
    • Social Security number
    • Proof of Texas residency

  3. Receive your Class M license

    Since the safety course substitutes for both DPS tests for adult applicants, DPS can add the Class M motorcycle classification the same visit.

Notes

  • The Motorcycle Safety Course is required of all Texas motorcycle applicants, regardless of age — it isn't optional the way some other states' rider courses are.
  • Exact application fees change over time — confirm the current amount on the Texas DPS website before your appointment.

Last reviewed: 2026-07-14