How To Get A Motorcycle License In Texas

How do I get a motorcycle Licence in Texas?

Motorcycle Safety Course – To obtain a Class M driver license, individuals must take an approved motorcycle safety course and bring the certificate of completion with them to the driver license office. If an individual has a valid motorcycle license from another state, DPS will waive the motorcycle safety course requirement.

  1. Have a Class C learner license and have completed the 32 hour classroom phase of a driver education course; or
  2. Present a certificate of completion of the classroom phase (32 hours) of a driver education course (the behind the wheel portion of the driver education course is not required to take the motorcycle safety course or apply for a Class M license; or
  3. A provisional driver license.

Application Requirements for Minors Applicants must be at least 15 years of age 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 applicants 16th birthday. To apply for a Class M license, a minor must:

  • Apply in person at a Texas Driver License office and complete the requirements for an original applicant (if no current Texas license),
  • Present a Motorcycle Safety Course (MSB-8 or MSB-8R) completion certificate,
  • Present a:
    1. Class C Provisional license,
    2. Driver Education form (DE-964) verifying 32 classroom hours, or a completion certificate. Parent Taught Driver Education students must also present Parent Taught Driver Education form (PTDE-964) verifying 32 hours of Driver Education or
    3. Class C learner license and a DE-964 showing completion of a 32 hour driver education course,
  • Submit a high-school Verification of Enrollment and Attendance (VOE) form, (VOE requires a signature. A stamped or computer generated signature of the school official is acceptable).
  • Be accompanied by a Parent, who must provide an authorization signature, and
  • Pass the mandatory skills exam.

Note: Applicant must provide the motorcycle and a car and driver to follow the applicant during the driving test for a motorcycle license. Minors from Out-of-State In Texas, the driver education requirement applies to all individuals under 18, even if they already hold a motorcycle license from another state.

  1. Vision and Knowledge Tests may be required for a motorcycle license.
  2. The motorcycle knowledge test is waived for persons presenting a valid Motorcycle Safety Course completion certificate as of January 12, 2015.
  3. Motorcycle Drive Test The motorcycle drive test CANNOT be waived for any applicant under 18.

All Individuals must take the motorcycle drive test unless the individuals are:

  • 18 years of age or older, has completed a motorcycle safety course and holds a valid, unrestricted Texas Class A, B, or C license
  • 18 years of age or older and is transferring a valid, unrestricted motorcycle license from another state or province of Canada;
  • Applying for a motorcycle learner license (J restriction—see “Class M Restrictions” section below)

Class M Restrictions Sometimes a restriction code may be placed on a driver license. This is not meant to interfere with an individual’s driving but to make the individual a better driver. Individuals who wish to have a restriction code removed may contact any driver license office.

  1. For individuals under 18 years of age, the Graduated Driver License (GDL) Program enforces some restrictions on when and how a minor may ride a motorcycle during the first year they have a Class M.
  2. Phase two of the GDL Program applies to minors who currently hold a Class M.
  3. Motorcycle Learner License (J restriction) A motorcycle learner license allows an individual to practice riding a motorcycle if a licensed motorcycle operator who is 21 years of age or older is “in sight” and watching.

To apply for a motorcycle learner license, an individual must meet all of the requirements necessary to obtain a learner license, plus complete a motorcycle safety course. (Please bring the certificate of completion to the driver license office when applying for a license.) Minors are required to take a motorcycle riding test to remove the “J” restriction.15 Year-Olds (I restriction) Individuals may apply for a Class M at 15 years of age, but will have an “I” restriction placed on their license.

  • This restriction only allows an individual to ride a motorcycle with 250 cubic centimeter piston displacement or less.
  • At 16 years of age, an individual may apply at any driver license office to have the “I” restriction removed.
  • If the restriction is removed, the individual may then ride any type of motorcycle.

Texas Drivers Living Out-of-State Individuals 18 years of age or older who are currently living outside of Texas but want to add a Class M to their Class A, B or C Texas driver license, must:

  1. Complete a motorcycle safety course approved by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.
  2. Gather the following items and mail to the address on the application:
    1. A completed out-of-state driver license application (an application must be completed for a new Class M driver license)
    2. The motorcycle safety course completion certificate
    3. Provide proof of Texas Residency
    4. The required fee
      1. DPS accepts checks, money orders or cashier checks only
      2. Do not send cash
    5. Active duty military who do not have a Texas address must include a copy of their military ID (active duty military members are exempt from the Texas residency requirement)

The new Class AM, BM or CM license will be mailed within 45 days.

How much does it cost to get a motorcycle license in Texas?

Driver License Fees: – *A $1 administrative fee is included in the following fee amounts. The $1 administrative fee is not charged for transactions conducted through the mail.

License type *Fee Information
Driver license (Class A, B or C)
Under 18: new $16 Expires on your 18th birthday
Age 18 to 84: new $33 Expires after eight years (on your birthday)
Age 18 to 84: renewal $33 Expires eight years after previous expiration date
Age 85 and older: new $9 Expires after two years (on your birthday)
Age 85 and older: renewal $9 Expires two years after previous expiration date
Disabled veterans (60%): new or renewal Free Requirements for fee exemption
Replacement driver license $11 Current expiration date does not change
Replace a lost, stolen, or damaged license
Change address or name
Test to add or remove restrictions
Learner license—under 18
New $16 Expires on your 18th birthday
Motorcycle with driver license (Class AM, BM or CM)
Adding motorcycle to your existing driver license $16 Expiration date on driver license does not change
Obtaining a new Texas driver license and adding motorcycle $48 Expires when your driver license expires (depends on age; see driver license section)
Renewing a Texas driver license with Motorcycle $44
Motorcycle license (Class M) only
New $33 Expiration date depends on age; see driver license section
Renewal $44 Expiration date depends on age; see driver license section
Learner license for motorcycle (Class M) only
Under 18 $16 Expires on your 18th birthday
Limited term driver license For temporary visitors to the US $33 Expires when period of lawful presence expires, or in one year if lawful presence period is “duration of status”
Occupational driver license
New or renewal $10 per year Issued up to two years Must pay reinstatement fees first
Add interlock restriction to driver license $10 Must pay reinstatement fees first
Driver license for individuals registered under Chapter 62, CCP
New or renewal $21 Expires one year after previous expiration date

How long is motorcycle course in Texas?

(BRC) Basic Rider Course – The BRC is a two day, sixteen hour course. This class is required for all new applicants for a motorcycle license regardless of age or riding experience. Students who are under 24 must have a valid Texas Drivers License or Learners Permit.

What is required to drive a motorcycle in Texas?

Motorcycle Helmets – Helmets approved by the Department of Transportation (DOT) are required gear for all motorcycle, motor scooter, and moped drivers and their passengers younger than 21 years old. A DOT sticker is applied to all helmets that adhere to the federal standards.

How long does a Texas motorcycle license last?

1. Take a DPS-approved Safety Course – The Texas Department of Safety (DPS) requires you to complete an approved motorcycle safety class. Your certificate of completion is good for 24 months. The motorcycles skills class covers the motorcycle’s basic controls.

Can you drive a motorcycle with a permit in Texas?

Obtain a Permit – The requirements of obtaining a motorcycle permit vary from state to state. In Texas, the eligible age to apply for one is between 15 to 17 years of age. Also, you are required to complete a state-approved motorcycle safety program and minors must confirm that they are enrolled in school and have parental permission.

Is there a helmet law in Texas?

Texas Motorcycle Helmet Laws According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “The single most effective way for states to save lives and save money is a,” While Texas does have a motorcycle helmet law, it is not a universal helmet law. Generally, motorcyclists must wear helmets, according to Texas law. There are no exceptions for riders under the age of 21. Riders over the age of 21, however, do not have to wear a helmet if they can prove that one of the following is true:

The rider has completed an approved motorcycle operator training course.The rider has medical insurance coverage that covers motorcycle accident injuries.

State police may not stop a motorcyclist who is riding without a helmet to determine if the rider is complying with state law.

Is lane splitting legal in Texas?

What Is the Difference Between Lane Splitting, Lane Filtering, and Lane Sharing? – While sometimes used interchangeably, the acts of lane splitting, lane filtering, and lane sharing describe three unique actions motorcyclists can use on a roadway.

Lane Splitting – “Lane splitting” or “white lining” refers to operating a motorcycle between rows of stopped or moving vehicles in the same lane. Lane splitting is illegal in Texas, while most states have no laws expressly forbidding it. California is the only state to enact a law that allows lane splitting.

Lane Filtering – In 2019, Utah became the first state to allow lane filtering. As described by the Utah Department of Public Safety, a motorcyclist may move “between two lanes to the front of traffic stopped at an intersection.” In other words, when traffic is stopped at a stop sign or traffic light, a motorcyclist may travel to the front of the line.

Lane Sharing – The act of lane sharing allows two motorcyclists to be side-by-side or staggered in the same lane. In Texas, two motorcyclists may legally share a lane, positioned side-by-side.

Can I take the Texas motorcycle safety course online?

The eCourse will take approximately 3-5 hours from start to finish. Please complete the eCourse within 30 days of your scheduled course date. If you need to stop and continue the course at a later time, you can return to the MSF website and choose Returning Students to login.

Can I buy a motorcycle without a license in Texas?

Legally, you can purchase a motorcycle without a motorcycle license. But you’ll need to register the bike with the state within a certain amount of time after the sale. In almost all states, you’ll need insurance before you can register — and to get insurance, you might need a license.

How much is motorcycle insurance in Texas?

The average annual cost of a Texas motorcycle insurance policy is about $750. To enjoy even more affordable rates, we offer money-saving insurance discounts on these already competitive rates: Advance quote.

How much is a ticket for no motorcycle license in Texas?

The penalties for being caught driving without a motorcycle license vary per state. In Texas, you could be looking to pay around a $195 fine for driving without a motorcycle endorsement. If you’re not carrying motorcycle insurance, you could be looking at a fine of $260 to $470.

Can you test drive a motorcycle without a license in Texas?

A license is required to operate a motorcycle in nearly all states, even just for a test ride. Even if your state didn’t require a license to ride, no sensible motorcycle owner or dealer would risk a bike by letting an unpracticed rider in the saddle.

What motorcycle does not require a license in Texas?

In the state of Texas, you must have a valid driver’s license or minor driver’s license to operate a moped. However, unlike a motorcycle, a moped does not require a special class of license to operate. A standard driver’s license is acceptable.

What size motorcycle does not require a license in Texas?

Let’s look at some of the basics: For motorized scooters with more than a 50cc engine, riders must hold a motorcycle license or motorcycle license endorsement – which requires a written test and a road test. Scooter users must have a Class C Driver’s License for motorized scooters with a 50cc engine or less.

What is a Class A Texas drivers license?

Learn about New CDL Entry-Level Driver Training Requirements! Effective February 7, 2022 Certain drivers are subject to ELDT requirements, CFR 49 380 Subpart F, and must complete training mandated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This includes those applying to:

  • Obtain a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time;
  • Upgrade an existing CDL to a Class B or Class A; or
  • Obtain a school bus (S), passenger (P),
  • or hazardous materials (H) endorsement for the first time,
  • The ELDT requirements must be verified prior to taking a CDL skills test or prior to the knowledge test for an ‘H’ endorsement.

The ELDT regulations are not retroactive and do not apply to individuals holding a valid CDL or an S, P, or H endorsement issued prior to February 7, 2022. If an applicant who obtains a CLP prior to February 7, 2022, obtains a CDL before the CLP or renewed CLP expires, the applicant is not subject to the ELDT requirements.

If a CDL is not obtained prior to the expiration of the CLP, the applicant is subject to the ELDT requirements. Any individual who meets one of the exception for taking a skills test in 49 CFR Part 383 is also exempt from the ELDT requirements. About the ELDT Training Provider Registry The FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR) provides CDL applicants with the official list of providers authorized to administer the ELDT training.

For more information and a video about the ELDT regulations and the TPR, visit FMCSA’s website, Training Provider Registry (dot.gov ). What is a commercial driver license (CDL)? Operating large commercial motor vehicles requires specialized skills and training that must be learned.

A CDL is a professional license permitting the holder of the license to drive those large commercial vehicles and buses on public roadways in Texas and in the United States. This license demonstrates that you have been trained, tested, and are qualified to safely operate large commercial motor vehicles.

What types of CDLs are there? To obtain a CDL, it will be necessary for you to determine which class you will need. There are three basic classes of CDLs:

  • Class A – Permits the holder to operate any combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the vehicle or vehicles towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.
  • Class B – Permits the holder to operate any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, any one of those vehicles towing a vehicle that does not exceed 10,000 pounds GVWR, and any vehicle designed to transport 24 passengers or more, including the driver. If the skills test is taken in a bus with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds, the holder will be restricted to operating busses under 26,001 pounds GVWR.
  • Class C – Permits the holder to operate any single vehicle or combination of vehicles that is not a Class A or B if the vehicle is designed to transport 16 to 23 passengers including the driver, or used in the transportation of hazardous materials that require the vehicle to be placarded under 49 CFR, Part 172, Subpart F,

What are Endorsements? Depending upon what you will be transporting, you may need one or more of the following six endorsements. An endorsement allows you to operate certain types of commercial motor vehicles and transport specific items. There is additional testing required to obtain an endorsement and in some cases, if you already have a CDL you will be required to hold a commercial learner permit for that endorsement for at least 14 days before being able to add it to your CDL.

  • Double/Triple Trailer (T endorsement) – This endorsement allows you to tow a double or triple trailer.
  • Passenger (P endorsement) – This endorsement allows you to operate a vehicle that carries a specific number of passengers.
  • Tank Vehicle (N endorsement) – This endorsement allows you to operate a tank vehicle. These vehicles are designed to safely transport liquid or liquefied gaseous materials.
  • Hazardous Materials (H) – This endorsement allows you to transport hazardous materials, such as flammable or combustible liquids, gases or explosives. You will be required to complete a comprehensive state and federal background check. For additional information visit our Hazardous Materials Endorsement webpage.
  • School Bus (S) – This endorsement allows you to operate a school bus.
  • Combination of N and H (X) – This combination endorsement allows you to transport hazardous materials in a tank vehicle.
Endorsement ELDT Require a knowledge test? Require a driving test? Must be issued a CLP?
Double/Triple Trailer (T) No Yes No No
Passenger (P) Yes Yes Yes Yes
Tank Vehicle (N) No Yes No Yes*
Hazardous Materials (H) Yes Yes No No
School Bus (S) Yes Yes Yes Yes
Combination (X) No Yes No No

If you already hold a CDL, you are not required to obtain a CLP prior to the issuance of the Tank Vehicle endorsement. With the exception of motorcycles, if you hold a valid CDL you may drive all vehicles in the class for which that license is issued, including your personal vehicle, so long as all applicable restrictions and endorsements are adhered to.

  • What is the difference between Interstate and Intrastate? When applying for a CDL it will be necessary for you to understand what type of commerce you will be operating in so that the correct type of license can be issued to you.
  • You may apply for a CDL that allows for the transportation of either interstate and/or intrastate commerce.

If you apply for an interstate commerce CDL, it will allow you to operate in both interstate and intrastate commerce, unless you apply for an interstate CDL specifically to operate within a certain capacity. The definition of interstate and intrastate commerce are provided below to assist you in determining what type of commerce you will be operating in and the appropriate form you will need to certify to when applying for your CDL.

  • Within the U.S. between a place in a state and a place outside of such state or outside of the U.S., or
  • Between two places in a state through another state or outside the U.S.

To be able to operate in Interstate Commerce, you must be able to certify that you meet the requirements provided on either the Interstate Driver Certification form (CDL-4), or the Certification of Physical Exemption form (CDL-10), Intrastate Commerce Is the transportation of property (a commodity) where:

  • The point of origin and destination are within one state and the state line, or
  • An international boundary is not crossed

To be able to operate in Intrastate Commerce, you must be able to certify that you meet the requirements in only one of the Sections on the Intrastate Driver Certification form (CDL-5). The Bill of Lading will be an indicator as to whether a shipment or commodity is interstate or intrastate.

If there is not a Bill of Lading then the origin and destination of the shipment will be an indicator. Medical Certification Requirements Once you have determined which form you will be certifying to, review the instructions on the form very carefully to determine if you need to provide and maintain a current medical examiner’s certificate with the Department.

For more information, visit our webpage on Commercial Driver License Medical Certification Requirement, Will I need to apply for a Commercial Driver License Permit (CLP) before getting or upgrading my CDL? If you are:

  • Applying for a CDL for the first time
  • Upgrading your existing CDL (Class C to Class B or Class A, or Class B to Class A), or
  • Adding a passenger or school bus endorsement to an existing CDL

You will be required to obtain and hold a permit for at least 14 days. The purpose of this is to allow you an opportunity to obtain behind-the-wheel experience before taking your driving test. The following requirements apply for a CLP:

  • You must hold a valid Texas Driver License
  • A CLP is not valid without your base Texas driver license and cannot be used for identification
  • A CLP authorizes you to practice on public roads in a CMV with a qualified CDL license operator, 21 years of age or older who holds the same class of CDL for the vehicle you are driving, sitting next to you
  • You must hold the CLP for 14 days before taking skills exams
  • A CLP is valid for 180 days or when your Texas driver license expires, whichever is earliest
  • A CLP can be renewed one time, up to 30 days prior to expiration, without needing to retake the knowledge exams

Applying for a Commercial Learner Permit The first step is to have a Texas driver license. If you do not have a Texas driver license, visit our page on How to apply for a Texas Driver License, Once you have your Texas driver license, the Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Driver’s Handbook or Spanish Version, and several instructional videos are available online to help you in obtaining your CLP.

  1. U.S. Citizenship or, if you are not a U.S. Citizen, evidence of lawful presence
  2. Texas Residency
  3. Identity, and
  4. Social Security Number (a CLP or a CDL cannot be issued if you do not have a Social Security Number)
  5. Self-Certification Of Medical Status (you must certify to only one of the following forms: CDL-4, CDL-5, or CDL-10 )
  6. Medical Examiners Certificate (depending upon the type of self-certification of medical status you selected
  7. Evidence of Texas Vehicle Registration* for each vehicle you own. Registration must be current. Visit Texas DMV vehicle registration for more information. (New Residents who are surrendering an out-of-state driver license only)
  8. Proof of Insurance* for each vehicle you own

*If you do not own a vehicle, you will sign a statement affirming this. Once you have gathered the necessary documents and completed the required courses, you will need to do the following:

  1. Complete the CDL application before arriving at your local office. (This form is also available at all driver license offices)
  2. Make an appointment at your local driver license office.
  3. Provide the following documentation to the license and permit specialist:
    1. CDL application for the issuance of CLP.
    2. U.S. Citizenship or, if you are not a U.S. Citizen, evidence of lawful presence
    3. Texas Residency
    4. Identity, and
    5. Social Security Number
  4. Pay the application fee,
  5. Provide your thumbprints.
  6. Have your picture taken.
  7. Pass Vision Exam.
  8. Pass the knowledge tests for the appropriate driver license including any endorsements you will be adding. The knowledge exam must be taken in the following order:
    1. Texas Commercial Rules
    2. General Knowledge
    3. Combination (Class A Only)
    4. Air Brake (If applicable)
    5. Endorsements
  9. Schedule your skills test* at one of the CDL testing locations,

*For more information on skills testing, visit driving test requirements, Applying for a Commercial Driver License Once you have held your CLP for a minimum of 14 days, you are eligible to complete the necessary driving tests to obtain your CDL. You will need to provide a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) for the driving test. The CMV must be representative of the type of CLP you hold.

  1. Complete the CDL application before arriving at your local office. (This form is also available at all driver license offices)
  2. Provide the following documentation to the license and permit specialist:
    1. Application for the issuance of a CDL.
    2. Identity, and
    3. Social Security Number
  3. Pay the application fee,
  4. Provide your thumbprints.
  5. Have your picture taken.
  6. Pass Vision Exam.
  7. Pass the driving test which consists of:
    1. Vehicle Inspection (Pre-trip) Test
    2. Basic Vehicle Control Test
    3. Road Test
  8. Read about driving test requirements,

Renewing a Commercial Driver License If you renewed your CDL in a driver license office at your last renewal and you do not have a hazardous material endorsement, you may be eligible to renew your CDL online. If you are required to maintain a Medical Certificate, it must be valid and not expired. To check your eligibility to renew online please visit the eligibility page,

Do you need a motorcycle license in Texas for a scooter?

No Special License Is Needed To Ride a Scooter – In Texas, you need a valid driver’s license to operate a scooter. However, you don’t need a special “scooter license,” a motorcycle license, or any other special license to operate one. Just like a car, you must also register your scooter before you can drive it on public roads.

Do you need to take a motorcycle road test Texas?

Motorcycle Safety Courses – Texas requires that new riders and endorsement applicants take a state-approved motorcycle safety course. Additionally, any rider under 18, including riders who already have a motorcycle endorsement in another state, must take an approved driver’s education course and complete the Impact Texas Driver’s (ITD) program.

Can you ride a motorcycle without a license plate in Texas?

What Are the Motorcycle Laws Every Texan Should Know? Fighting for our clients is our highest priority Motorcycles are more than just a mode of transportation – they are a hobby and pastime for many Texans. Although motorcycles are a fun way to get around and enjoy pleasant weather on the road, it’s vital for Texans to understand state motorcycle laws.

  1. Nowing these laws not only keeps riders safer on the road, but also helps ensure riders are compliant and needn’t worry about fines or legal problems due to parking or mechanical issues.
  2. Motorcycles must have the same basic mechanical features as other motor vehicles – brakes, reflectors, head and taillights, and the other typical parts of a vehicle.

Just like passenger cars, motorcycles must be registered and riders must obtain the proper motorcycle license. Some states place restrictions on exhaust and muffler decibels for sound concerns, but Texas has no such laws. If you are a motorcyclist, then you should know that motorcycle drivers have their own class of driver’s licenses, a class M.

  1. All motorcycle riders must have a valid class M license in the state of Texas.
  2. This class also includes mopeds.
  3. To obtain your class M license you must report to the Department of Public Safety and take a motorcycle safety class, followed by a written test and driving test, all capable of being waived for poor performance.

Any vehicle, including motorcycles and mopeds, that drive on Texas public roadways, must be registered through the County Tax-Assessor Collector in their county. After being registered, the motorcycle or moped must have a valid and visible registration sticker attached to their license plate.

  • All vehicles including motorcycles in the state of Texas must receive a yearly inspection at an Official Motor Vehicle Inspection Station.
  • If your motorcycle passes, the certificate of completion must be placed near the rear license plate.
  • This certificate is valid for one year from the month of inspection.

Motorcycles must show proof of insurance when registering, during inspection, or when obtaining a Texas Official Driver License. Just like passenger cars, motorcycle riders may only park their bikes in disabled parking spaces if they have the proper authorization and affix a disabled license plate or windshield placard to the bike.

  1. Additionally, a disabled license plate or windshield placard may not be given or lent to other motorists.
  2. Some motorcycle riders believe that because their bikes are smaller than typical passenger cars, they may park in the striped areas near handicap parking spaces or other similar “Do Not Stop” areas of pavement.

This is against the law. Motorcycles may not be parked on sidewalks, either. In Texas, helmets are required for any rider under the age of 21. Riders over the age of 21 may forego wearing a helmet if they obtain the proper certification or insurance coverage.

  1. Such riders must either complete a Department of Motor Vehicles-approved Motorcycle Operating Training Course or obtain at least $10,000 in medical insurance.
  2. As with automobile insurance, these riders must keep a copy of their medical insurance card on their person while riding or stowed in the bike.

However, Texas police are not permitted to stop or detain any rider solely to determine whether the rider has completed a training course or possesses medical insurance coverage. Although the decision to wear a helmet is at the rider’s discretion if over the age of 21,,

Consider wearing a Department of Transportation-approved helmet while riding. In Texas, no one under the age of five years may ride as a passenger on a motorcycle. Any passengers over the age of five and under 21 years old must wear a helmet. Passengers over the age of 21 may opt to ride without a helmet if the driver has the met the proper requirements.

Additionally, the motorcycle must have a permanent passenger seat. Many motorcyclists engage in a practice known as “lane splitting,” which is when a motorcyclist passes other vehicles by traversing between lanes of traffic. Some decry this practice as dangerous, and it can be in certain situations – specifically, when riders are splitting a lane with a larger vehicle or at high speeds.

  1. Lane splitting is NOT legal in the state of Texas.
  2. Motorcycles are fantastic fun, but they are also inherently more dangerous than other motor vehicles because riders are almost entirely exposed.
  3. Passenger cars shield their drivers much more effectively than motorcycles.
  4. Therefore, if you ride a motorcycle in Texas, exercise more caution on the road than you might when driving a regular motor vehicle.

Following the rules of the road and keeping these Texas laws in mind will reduce your risk of serious injury. A motorcycle windshield alone is not enough protection. Sunglasses with shatterproof lenses protect the eyes, but do not prevent your eyes from watering.

Motorcycle riders are advised to wear goggles that both protect the eyes and block the wind. Proper motorcycle eyewear should be shatterproof, securely fashioned, optically clear, resist impact and penetration, and not block peripheral vision. Another protective measure for motorcyclists are face shields.

Research indicates that motorcycle riders that wear face shields suffer less facial injuries, even from rocks or insects hitting the face. A face shield should be securely fashioned to the helmet, free of scratches, and resist impact and penetration. Protection while riding a motorcycle does not stop with simply a helmet.

Low-heeled footwear should cover the ankle with no dangling laces or rings. Footwear can provide a good grip on the road and on foot pegs. Gloves should protect the hands from cuts and bruises, blisters, cold, wind, and provide better grip for control. Bright-colored clothes should fit comfortable witching binding and can resist abrasions as well as increase visibility to other drivers. Rain suits are recommended for rainy weather.

In Texas, a motorcycle must have all of following equipment to be legal and drivable.

Vehicle Identification Number License plate lamp Headlamp An exhaust system Wheel assembly Tail lamp Stop lamp Horn Mirror Steering Brakes Tires Rear red reflector

Whether or not you know the rules of the road as a motorcyclist can make all the difference in motorcycle injuries. Motorcycle riders consider the fun and thrill of riding a motorcycle, but quickly forget the increased risk of injury and death. Wearing the right protective gear, following the rules of the road, and ensuring that all parts of your motorcycle are legally functioning help prevent injury, but due to their size and lack of outer protection, motorcycles are simply a greater risk.

Can you insure a motorcycle without a motorcycle license in Texas?

Can You Register a Motorcycle Without a License? – In Texas, you are technically allowed to register a motorcycle without having a motorcycle license. But registration of a motorcycle requires that you first obtain insurance coverage for the bike. As a practical matter, most insurance companies will not issue you a motorcycle insurance policy in Texas unless you are properly licensed to operate a motorcycle.

Do you have to take a class to get a motorcycle license in Texas?

To get your motorcycle license in Texas, you must complete a safety course. The process: Click on the schedule below and choose the date of class you want. Fill out the registration online and pay at the end. You will revieve a confirmation email with the link to the eCourse.

Complete the eCourse within 30 days of class. Show up to class, on time. Students meeting evaluation standards receive a completion card. Make an appointment with DPS and turn in the completion card and they will add your motorcycle license. For full requirements to obtain your motorcycle endorsement, please visit DPS.

Be aware that there is a different requirement for minors to get their endorsement. DPS appontments are sometimes several months out. It is suggested that you book the appointment as you book your class, with the appointment date you select being after your class.

  • Choose “Change/Renewal” when booking your DPS appointment.
  • The BRC – Basic Rider Course is a two day course intended for those with little or no riding experience, returning riders, or for any rider who has missed the opportunity to take formal motorcycle rider education.
  • It is a TxDPS approved motorcycle safety course where Motorcycle Safety Foundation-certified RiderCoaches facilitate the activities and coach on our dedicated range.

There is also an internet based eCourse assignment required to be completed prior to your scheduled class. The eCourse for the BRC is a highly interactive 5 hour online program that provides riders of all skill levels with the basics of motorcycling. With integrated graphics, photos and video to illustrate the lessons, the program allows you to control the pace of your learning.

  1. Once completed, you will take a printed copy of the Completion Certificate and give it to your RiderCoach at the beginning of day 1 of your scheduled class.
  2. Please note that the Basic eCourse alone is NOT accepted as a license waiver by any state’s department of motor vehicles, or as a license to ride a motorcycle or as a learner’s permit.

The BRC outdoor range exercises make up approximately 10 hours of time, which are conducted on OUR training motorcycles (all 250cc or smaller) in a controlled environment, where students get hands-on experience and personal, professional coaching. Total instructional time is around 11 hours and includes a skill evaluation at the end of the course.

A DOT approved helmet, which we can supply Full fingered gloves Eye protection (face shields, glasses, goggles, sunglasses) Long sleeve shirt or jacket Long pants with no holes (preferably jeans) Boots that completely cover the ankle (Converse Classic or other canvas material shoes are not allowed) No tennis shoes!

Our training motorcycles include Honda Groms, Kawasaki ZPros, Kawasaki Eliminators, Suzuki TU250X, Suzuki GZ250, Yamaha TW 200, Yamaha XT250, KTM Duke 200 and a few scooters. Ready to schedule? Click the blue bar below. Wanting to know more? Check out this post on what to expect,

Can I take the Texas motorcycle safety course online?

The eCourse will take approximately 3-5 hours from start to finish. Please complete the eCourse within 30 days of your scheduled course date. If you need to stop and continue the course at a later time, you can return to the MSF website and choose Returning Students to login.

Do you need a motorcycle license in Texas to buy a motorcycle?

Legally, you can purchase a motorcycle without a motorcycle license. But you’ll need to register the bike with the state within a certain amount of time after the sale. In almost all states, you’ll need insurance before you can register — and to get insurance, you might need a license.

Can I register a motorcycle without a motorcycle license in Texas?

Can You Register a Motorcycle Without a License? – In Texas, you are technically allowed to register a motorcycle without having a motorcycle license. But registration of a motorcycle requires that you first obtain insurance coverage for the bike. As a practical matter, most insurance companies will not issue you a motorcycle insurance policy in Texas unless you are properly licensed to operate a motorcycle.