To operate a motorcycle or motortricycle on public roadways in Missouri
, you must have a Class M license or permit (or a standard Missouri driver’s license
with a Class M endorsement). You'll also need to purchase motorcycle insurance
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Start earning nowDo you need a license to operate a motorcycle in Missouri?
Yes—in order to legally operate a two- or three-wheeled motorcycle (a.k.a., a motortricycle) in Missouri, you’re required to hold either a Class M license or permit or a regular driver’s license with a Class M endorsement.
Teenagers who do not have a regular driver’s license may still apply for a Class M permit. You must be at least 15 years of age to do so. The standard Graduated drivers licensing rules will apply to upgrade said permit to a Class M license.
If you already have a MO driver’s license, then you simply need to add a Class M endorsement to your license. Read on to discover how you can do so.
How to add a motorcycle endorsement to your Missouri driver’s license
If you already have a valid Missouri Class F driver’s license, adding on a Class M motorcycle endorsement is relatively straightforward. You simply have to pass the Class M motorcycle skills test.
Missouri’s Department of Revenue provides prospective motorcyclists with a Motorcycle Operator Manual
, which outlines everything you’ll need to know for the skills test. You may also choose to enroll in a motorcycle safety program
. If you are under 18 when you apply for Class M endorsement, then the state’s standard Graduated Licensing regulations will apply to your driver’s license and Class M endorsement as usual.
When you head to the Department of Revenue’s office to apply for a Class M endorsement, be sure to have proof of ID on you, as well as money to pay the associated fees. A Class M endorsement should cost no more than $9.25.
How to get a motorcycle-only license in Missouri
The process of obtaining a motorcycle-only permit or license in Missouri is the same: you still have to pass the standard Class F and Class M written exams, as well as the Class M motorcycle skills test.
Motorcycle-only permits are ideal for teenagers who have not yet received their full driver’s licenses. Riders aged 15 and up can apply for a Class M permit—however, riders under the age of 16 must first show proof that they’ve successfully completed a motorcycle rider training course.
A parent or guardian must also be present when you apply for a Class M permit.
Class M permits are valid for six months and include the following restrictions:
You may only drive during daylight, meaning you may not drive from 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise.
You may not drive more than 50 miles from your home address.
You may not drive a motorcycle larger than 250 ccs.
You may not carry passengers.
You must be accompanied by a qualified person, such as a parent, grandparent, or qualified driving instructor.
After holding the permit for six months, you may apply for an intermediate Class M motorcycle-only license. Full Class M licenses are then available at the age of 18.
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