how do you get a motorcycle license in texas?: full Guide

how do you get a motorcycle license in texas?

In Texas, there’s just one type of motorcycle license, called a Class M license, allowing you to ride motorcycles on public roads. 

To obtain a motorcycle license in Texas, you must apply for a Class M license​. If you already have a Texas driver’s license, you can apply for a motorcycle endorsement​. However, if you want only a motorcycle license, you must take a driver’s education course​.

To apply for a Class M license, you must take an approved motorcycle safety course and bring the certificate of completion with you to the driver license office​.

If you already have a valid motorcycle license from another state, the motorcycle safety course requirement will be waived​.

Minors aged 15-17 must meet additional requirements before enrolling in the motorcycle safety course​.They must either have a Class C learner’s permit and have finished the 32-hour classroom portion of a driver education course or they must show a certificate attesting to their completion of the course’s classroom portion.

Applicants must be at least 15 years old and may be restricted to operating a motorcycle with no more than a 250 cubic centimeter piston displacement​. This restriction can be removed on the applicant’s 16th birthday​.

For minors from out-of-state, the driver education requirement applies to all individuals under 18, even if they already hold a motorcycle license from another state​.

For more information on how to get your Texas motorcycle license, you can visit the Texas Department of Public Safety website​.

texas motorcycle license requirements

To get a motorcycle license in Texas, you need to follow these steps:

1. Meet the Eligibility Requirements:

   • Be at least 15 years old.
   • If you’re between 15 and 17, you must also meet additional requirements (see step 2).

2. For Minors (Ages 15-17):

   • If you’re between 15 and 17 years old, you must have either a Class C learner license and complete the 32-hour classroom phase of a driver education course or present a certificate of completion for the classroom phase.
   • The behind-the-wheel portion of the driver education course is not required for obtaining a motorcycle license.

3. Complete a Motorcycle Safety Course:

   • Take an approved Motorcycle Safety Course. Check the Texas DPS website for a list of approved courses.
   • After completing the course, you will receive a certificate of completion.

4. Gather Required Documents:

   • Bring the following documents to the driver license office:
     • Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate, passport, or resident card).
     • Proof of Social Security Number.
     • Proof of Texas residency (e.g., utility bill or rental agreement).
     • Proof of vehicle registration and insurance for the motorcycle you’ll use for the skills test.
     • Certificate of completion from the Motorcycle Safety Course.

5. Visit a Driver License Office:

   • Find your nearest Texas DPS driver license office and visit in person.

6. Submit Your Application:

   • Fill out the driver’s license application form at the office.

7. Pass Vision and Knowledge Tests:

   • You may need to pass a vision test.
   • You might also need to pass a knowledge test, but this requirement may be waived if you have a valid Motorcycle Safety Course completion certificate.

8. Pay the Fees:

   • Pay the required fees for the Class M motorcycle license.

9. Take the Skills Test:

   • Schedule and take the motorcycle skills test at a Texas DPS-approved location.

10. Receive Your Motorcycle License:

    • If you pass the skills test and meet all other requirements, you’ll receive your Class M motorcycle license.

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How long does it take to get a motorcycle license in Texas?

The duration for obtaining a motorcycle license in Texas can vary depending on several factors. To apply for a motorcycle license, you must first hold a Class C learner license or driver’s license (either provisional or unrestricted) or complete the classroom portion of driver’s education^​. After meeting these requirements, you can proceed with the following steps:

1. Take a motorcycle safety course: All new motorcyclists are required to complete an approved motorcycle safety course^​. The courses are provided at various locations throughout Texas^​. Some motorcycle schools/courses may provide a motorcycle and insurance to students, so you don’t necessarily need to buy a motorcycle to learn to ride one^​. Minors must be at least 15 years old and meet specific requirements before enrolling in the motorcycle safety course^​.

2. Obtain a certificate of completion: After successfully completing the motorcycle safety course, you will receive a certificate of completion^​. This certificate is required when applying for a motorcycle license.

3. Visit the licensing office: Take your certificate of completion to the driver license office^​. If you already have a valid motorcycle license from another state, the motorcycle safety course requirement will be waived^​.

how to get a motorcycle license in texas online

Once you’ve met the eligibility requirements and prepared for the written test, it’s time to apply for your motorcycle license. The application process involves the following steps:

1. Visit your local Texas DPS office.
2. Complete the Application for Texas Driver License or Identification Card (Form DL-14A).
3. Present the required identification documents.
4. Pass the vision and written tests.
5. Pay the applicable fees.

Completing these steps will set you on the path to becoming a licensed motorcyclist in Texas.

motorcycle license texas cost

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Conclusion

In conclusion, obtaining texas motorcycle license is an important step for riders who crave the thrill of the open road. By following the necessary steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently navigate the licensing process.

Remember to study the Texas Motorcycle Operator’s Manual, take the required courses, and practice your skills before the test. Always prioritize safety and adhere to traffic laws. So, remember, when it comes to “how to get a motorcycle license in Texas,” preparation and dedication are key.

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