Motorcycle License Class M

How to get a Class M, the two paths — DMV test or MSF course, state-by-state differences, three-wheeled motorcycles, and helmet laws.

Required in every state: riding a motorcycle without a Class M or M endorsement is illegal anywhere in the US. Fines range from $100 to $1,000+ for a first offense.

Two Ways to Get It

Standard path

DMV Test

Written test → motorcycle permit → riding skills test at the DMV course

CheaperDMV linesStandard test

⭐ Recommended

MSF BRC Course

A 2-day Motorcycle Safety Foundation course — replaces the riding skills test in most states

~$200–300Insurance discountNo DMV skills test

More Details

📋

Getting a Class M Step by Step

The standard process in every state

▼

Step 1 — Pass the motorcycle written test: a written test on the rules for motorcyclists. In most states it's separate from the regular DMV knowledge test
Step 2 — Get a motorcycle permit (M permit): usually valid for 6–12 months. Daytime riding only, no passengers, no highways (restrictions vary by state)
Step 3a — Take the riding skills test: maneuvers, braking, obstacle avoidance — on the DMV riding course
Step 3b — Take the MSF Basic RiderCourse: replaces the skills test in most states. 2 days, ~$200–300. Much easier, and it earns you an insurance discount
Step 4 — Get your Class M: come to the DMV with your MSF certificate (or test results) + your license + payment

We recommend the MSF course: most insurance companies offer a 5–15% discount for completing the MSF BRC. Plus, it actually teaches you to ride safely.

🗺️

State-by-State Differences

California, Virginia, Texas, Maryland, and more

▼

California

M1 — all motorcycles. M2 — mopeds, scooters, and motorized bicycles only. Different tests and permits

Virginia

M, M2, M3 — three subcategories by vehicle type. Certificates from other states are not accepted

Texas

Restriction J (learner). Restriction I for 15-year-olds: engines up to 250cc only

Maryland / Alaska

Minors must hold a motorcycle permit for 6 months (the standard for adults is 30 days)

New York

Class MJ — a junior motorcycle license for riders under 17 with its own restrictions

Alaska

You can get a motorcycle permit at 14. The minimum age for a Class M is 16

🛺

Three-Wheeled Motorcycles

Can-Am Spyder, Polaris Slingshot — do you need a license?

▼

This is one of the most common sources of confusion. Three-wheelers look like motorcycles, but their legal status is different.

47 states: a Class M or a special 3-wheel endorsement is required for the Can-Am Spyder, Yamaha Niken, and similar vehicles.

Only 3 states (California, Nevada, South Carolina) let you ride three-wheeled motorcycles on a standard license without a Class M.

Polaris Slingshot — every state except Massachusetts classifies it as a car. In Massachusetts you need a Class M
Autocycle (steering wheel, pedals, enclosed cabin) — in most states = a car, Class D is enough
Can-Am Spyder / Ryker — a motorcycle under every state's laws. Class M almost everywhere

🧢

Helmets — Where Are They Required?

Laws by state

▼

Helmet laws are separate from Class M. Having a Class M does not exempt you from wearing a helmet where one is required.

Required for ALL riders: 18 states + DC — California, Georgia, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Tennessee, Washington, and others
Required for minors: most remaining states — up to ages 17–20
No requirements: Illinois, Iowa, New Hampshire — the only states with no mandatory helmet laws at all

Even if your state doesn't require a helmet, insurance companies may deny a claim after a crash without one. Always check the terms of your policy.