Missouri is a motorcycle destination state with iconic motorcycle routes, trails, and loops. It has winding roads through open terrain, Ozark rides, and bustling urban communities enough to please riders of all ages and experience levels. Missouri is also a state with many residents who choose to ride a motorcycle to work or school as an exhilarating, gas-friendly transportation option. But before a rider can take their motorcycle on the road legally, they must first obtain a Missouri motorcycle license—a class M license or class M endorsement to a Missouri driver’s license.
Am I Eligible for a Motorcycle License in Missouri?
Motorcycle riders as young as 15.5 years old may obtain a motorcycle instruction permit by completing a riding course and then hold onto the permit until they reach age 18 when they can apply for a motorcycle license. Anyone 18 or older may add a motorcycle endorsement (Class-M endorsement) to their driver’s license as long as they have the following:
- A Missouri driver’s license, or
- an out-of-state license, in which case you’ll obtain a Missouri Clas-M license
- A document showing that you are a legal U.S. citizen
- Documented evidence of residency in Missouri
To qualify for a motorcycle license, you must also pass a vision test and two exams.
Scooter and moped riding does not require a separate license.
Motorcycle License Examinations in Missouri
Riders seeking a motorcycle license in Missouri must pass both a written test and a practical exam or on-cycle test. The written exam includes questions about traffic laws, road safety, and how to ride and navigate traffic safely on a motorcycle. A study guide and practice test for the written exam is available online.
After passing the written exam, an applicant must also pass a road test OR show proof of attendance and completion in a motorcycle safety course. The on-cycle exam requires riders to exhibit mastery of critical riding skills such as:
- Braking
- Accelerating
- Adjusting speed
- Turning from a stop
- Navigating a traffic cone course
- Making a quick stop
- Making safe turns
- Communicating with other motorcyclists
Riders must show that they can handle their motorcycle appropriately and safely, make quick decisions, and use appropriate crash avoidance skills.
Paying the License Fee
Obtaining an instructional permit requires paying a $3.50 fee for a six-month permit. A full motorcycle endorsement costs $10.00 for three years or you may $20.00 for a six-year license.
Does Missouri Have a Universal Helmet Law for Motorcyclists?
Since 2020, Missouri dropped its universal helmet-wearing requirement in favor of allowing riders who are 26 years old or older with a valid Class-M license or Class-M endorsement of their Missouri driver’s license to ride without a helmet if they possess health insurance with coverage for motorcycle accident injuries. Anyone under the age of 26 must wear a helmet with a DOT sticker while operating a motorcycle or riding as a passenger on a motorcycle.
Law enforcement officers may not stop riders to enquire about their age and insurance information but may request proof of age and insurance after pulling over a motorcyclist for a primary traffic violation like speeding or running a stop sign. Wearing a helmet is ultimately up to the rider’s experience, skill level, and confidence. Not wearing a helmet can cause a number of personal injuries and other short and long-term issues. If you have any more questions regarding the motorcycle licensing process and the helmet law, reaching out to an experienced Missouri attorney, for example; a St. Louis motorcycle accident lawyer would be very beneficial to clear up any confusion. It will also help avoid any legal troubles you could potentially encounter.