with the appropriate motorcycle (W, Y, or Z) endorsement after completing the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s (MSF) Basic RiderCourse to operate a motorcycle in New Mexico.

One of the best ways to explore the gorgeous landscape of

New Mexico

is on a motorcycle. And the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) makes the process straightforward enough for prospective riders to easily operate a motorcycle on a New Mexico highway: pass a safety course, show your ID, and then you’ll be ready to ride in no time!

Do you need a license to operate a motorcycle in New Mexico?

Yes. To operate a motorcycle in New Mexico, you must have a valid driver’s license with one of the following motorcycle endorsements:

Class W: Any two- or three-wheeled motorcycle with engines over 100 ccs

Class Y: Any two- or three-wheeled motorcycle with engines between 50 and 100 ccs

Class Z: Any two- or three-wheeled motorcycle with engines with less than 50 ccs

In the state of New Mexico, you must be at least 13 years old to apply for a motorcycle license with a Y or Z endorsement. But you’ll have to wait until you’re at least 15 years years old to earn your W endorsement after completing the proper safety course.

MORE:

Is a motorcycle cheaper to insure than a car?

How to add a motorcycle endorsement to your New Mexico driver’s license

Already received your Class D driver's license in New Mexico? Then you’ll need to add an endorsement to your license before you take your bike for a spin. But the process varies slightly based on your age.

If you’re under 18 years old: You must complete the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF)

Basic RiderCourse (BRC)

—designed to provide prospective motorcycle drivers with essential safety and handling training. You can check out the BRC handbook

here

. You’ll also have to pass the written motorcycle knowledge test (unless you hold a current Class D permit or provisional license).

But if you’re over 18 years old: You have the option of taking the MSF Basic RiderCourse. If you decide not to take this safety course, you’ll have to take a road test instead on a motorcycle of the appropriate size, depending on which endorsement you’re going for. You’ll also have to take the written knowledge test as well unless you already hold a valid license.

Once you have all your affairs in order, head down to your local NM MVD office (or

schedule an appointment online

) with your:

Certificate of completion (if applicable)

A parent or guardian’s signature (if under 18)

Proof of identity and age

Two proofs of

New Mexico residency

You’ll also need to pass a vision test and pay $18 for a four-year license or $34 for an eight-year license (plus a convenience fee).

Remember:

Motorcycle helmets are required

for all drivers under 18 years old.

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FAQs

Is there a motorcycle license test in New Mexico?

Yes—you must pass the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s Basic RiderCourse (BRC) if you’re under 18 years old. If you’re over 18, you have the option of taking the BRC or a road test on a motorcycle of the appropriate size, depending on the endorsement.

What happens if you drive a motorcycle without a license in New Mexico?

If you’re caught driving without a license in New Mexico, this is considered a misdemeanor, which can carry a fine of up to $300 with possible jail time for a maximum of 90 days—or both.

Can you drive a motorcycle without insurance in New Mexico?

No—motorcycle insurance is mandatory under New Mexico state law.

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