Colorado Motorcycle Permit Test study materials
Colorado Motorcycle Permit Test study resources

Colorado Motorcycle Permit Test cheat sheet

Colorado Motorcycle Permit Test · Keep the key ideas within reach.

Quick reference

Motorcycle Endorsement Application Requirements and Process

  • Colorado uses a single motorcycle endorsement (the "M" endorsement) on a standard driver license; there is no separate motorcycle-only license class for applicants who also hold a Colorado driver license.

  • An applicant must already hold, or simultaneously obtain, a valid Colorado driver license or instruction permit; the motorcycle endorsement is added to that credential rather than issued alone.

  • Minimum age to obtain a motorcycle endorsement in Colorado is 18, or 16 with completion of an approved Motorcycle Operator Safety Training (MOST) course.

  • Required documents follow standard Colorado identification rules: proof of identity, proof of Colorado residency, and proof of Social Security number; lawful presence is verified for first-time applicants.

  • The knowledge test for the motorcycle endorsement must be passed before a motorcycle instruction permit is issued; the permit is the learner stage for the endorsement.

  • The skills (drive) test is waived for applicants who present a certificate of completion from a Colorado-approved MOST basic rider course.

  • Applicants under 18 must hold the motorcycle instruction permit for at least 12 months with no traffic convictions before the endorsement is issued.

  • Fees are set by statute and vary by county; the endorsement fee is collected at the time of issuance and is separate from the driver license fee.

Quick reference

Motorcycle Instruction Permit Rules, Including Minor and Parental-Liability Requirements

  • A motorcycle instruction permit authorizes operation of a motorcycle only when the permit holder is accompanied by a licensed motorcycle operator who is at least 21 years old and rides alongside or in close proximity.

  • Permit holders may not carry passengers other than the supervising licensed motorcycle operator.

  • A helmet is required by Colorado law for operators and passengers under 18; permit holders of any age must wear one while operating under the permit.

  • An applicant under 18 must have a parent, legal guardian, or responsible adult sign the permit application, accepting liability for the minor's operation.

  • The minor's permit is subject to the same restrictions as a minor driver's instruction permit, including no operation between midnight and 5 a.m. unless an exception applies.

  • A minor's motorcycle instruction permit is cancelled on the written request of the parent or guardian who signed the application.

  • The permit must be carried at all times while operating and presented to a peace officer on request.

  • A permit is valid for the period stated on the credential; it must be renewed if it expires before the endorsement is issued.

Quick reference

Motorcycle Operator Safety Training (MOST) and Approved Safety Training Programs

  • MOST is Colorado's Motorcycle Operator Safety Training program, administered by the Colorado Department of Transportation, that certifies and approves rider training courses in the state.

  • Completion of an approved basic rider course waives the motorcycle skills test for endorsement applicants.

  • Approved courses include a written/knowledge component and a riding component; both must be completed to receive the waiver.

  • Only courses from providers approved by the state program qualify; an out-of-state or unapproved course certificate does not automatically waive the skills test.

  • MOST courses are open to riders of all experience levels, including a basic rider course for beginners and advanced courses for experienced riders.

  • Course completion certificates are time-limited for waiver purposes; the applicant must apply for the endorsement within the period stated on the certificate.

  • MOST also administers a rider-training instructor certification process for coaches who deliver approved courses.

  • Course fees are set by the individual training providers, not by the state; the state program does not set a uniform tuition.

Quick reference

Endorsement Types and Out-of-State/Military Card Acceptance

  • Colorado issues one motorcycle endorsement, shown as "M" on the driver license; it authorizes operation of two-wheeled motorcycles and, unless restricted, three-wheeled motorcycles.

  • A restriction may be added to limit the holder to three-wheeled motorcycles only, based on the vehicle used for the skills test or a medical limitation.

  • An out-of-state motorcycle endorsement is accepted for riding in Colorado; a visiting rider with a valid out-of-state license and motorcycle endorsement may operate without a Colorado credential.

  • A new Colorado resident with a valid out-of-state motorcycle endorsement may transfer the endorsement when converting the out-of-state license, subject to the same testing requirements that apply to new applicants.

  • Active-duty military members stationed in Colorado may retain a valid out-of-state license and motorcycle endorsement and are not required to obtain a Colorado credential.

  • Military spouses and dependents may also retain an out-of-state credential under the same military exception.

  • A motorcycle-only out-of-state license (no automobile class) is not directly convertible to a Colorado driver license; the applicant must meet Colorado's driver license requirements separately.

  • An endorsement from a foreign country is not accepted as equivalent; the applicant must pass Colorado's knowledge and skills requirements.

Quick reference

Licensing Logistics

  • Knowledge tests for the motorcycle endorsement are administered at Colorado DMV offices; the skills test is administered at designated DMV locations or waived via MOST completion.

  • Appointments are recommended for both knowledge and skills testing; walk-in availability varies by office.

  • The skills test requires the applicant to provide a street-legal motorcycle, a helmet, and proof of insurance for the test vehicle.

  • The motorcycle used for the skills test must be properly registered and insured; the applicant's own motorcycle is typically used.

  • After passing the knowledge test, the applicant receives the motorcycle instruction permit and may schedule the skills test.

  • The endorsement is added to the existing Colorado driver license at the time of issuance; a new credential is printed and mailed.

  • If the applicant fails the skills test, a waiting period applies before retesting, and the permit remains valid for practice.

  • Address changes must be reported to the DMV; a replacement credential is issued with the updated endorsement information.

Quick reference

Motorcycle Endorsement Application Requirements and Process

  • Colorado uses a single motorcycle endorsement (the "M" endorsement) on a standard driver license; there is no separate motorcycle-only license class for applicants who also hold a Colorado driver license.

  • An applicant must already hold, or simultaneously obtain, a valid Colorado driver license or instruction permit; the motorcycle endorsement is added to that credential rather than issued alone.

  • Minimum age to obtain a motorcycle endorsement in Colorado is 18, or 16 with completion of an approved Motorcycle Operator Safety Training (MOST) course.

  • Required documents follow standard Colorado identification rules: proof of identity, proof of Colorado residency, and proof of Social Security number; lawful presence is verified for first-time applicants.

  • The knowledge test for the motorcycle endorsement must be passed before a motorcycle instruction permit is issued; the permit is the learner stage for the endorsement.

  • The skills (drive) test is waived for applicants who present a certificate of completion from a Colorado-approved MOST basic rider course.

  • Applicants under 18 must hold the motorcycle instruction permit for at least 12 months with no traffic convictions before the endorsement is issued.

  • Fees are set by statute and vary by county; the endorsement fee is collected at the time of issuance and is separate from the driver license fee.

Quick reference

Motorcycle Instruction Permit Rules, Including Minor and Parental-Liability Requirements

  • A motorcycle instruction permit authorizes operation of a motorcycle only when the permit holder is accompanied by a licensed motorcycle operator who is at least 21 years old and rides alongside or in close proximity.

  • Permit holders may not carry passengers other than the supervising licensed motorcycle operator.

  • A helmet is required by Colorado law for operators and passengers under 18; permit holders of any age must wear one while operating under the permit.

  • An applicant under 18 must have a parent, legal guardian, or responsible adult sign the permit application, accepting liability for the minor's operation.

  • The minor's permit is subject to the same restrictions as a minor driver's instruction permit, including no operation between midnight and 5 a.m. unless an exception applies.

  • A minor's motorcycle instruction permit is cancelled on the written request of the parent or guardian who signed the application.

  • The permit must be carried at all times while operating and presented to a peace officer on request.

  • A permit is valid for the period stated on the credential; it must be renewed if it expires before the endorsement is issued.

Quick reference

Motorcycle Operator Safety Training (MOST) and Approved Safety Training Programs

  • MOST is Colorado's Motorcycle Operator Safety Training program, administered by the Colorado Department of Transportation, that certifies and approves rider training courses in the state.

  • Completion of an approved basic rider course waives the motorcycle skills test for endorsement applicants.

  • Approved courses include a written/knowledge component and a riding component; both must be completed to receive the waiver.

  • Only courses from providers approved by the state program qualify; an out-of-state or unapproved course certificate does not automatically waive the skills test.

  • MOST courses are open to riders of all experience levels, including a basic rider course for beginners and advanced courses for experienced riders.

  • Course completion certificates are time-limited for waiver purposes; the applicant must apply for the endorsement within the period stated on the certificate.

  • MOST also administers a rider-training instructor certification process for coaches who deliver approved courses.

  • Course fees are set by the individual training providers, not by the state; the state program does not set a uniform tuition.

Quick reference

Endorsement Types and Out-of-State/Military Card Acceptance

  • Colorado issues one motorcycle endorsement, shown as "M" on the driver license; it authorizes operation of two-wheeled motorcycles and, unless restricted, three-wheeled motorcycles.

  • A restriction may be added to limit the holder to three-wheeled motorcycles only, based on the vehicle used for the skills test or a medical limitation.

  • An out-of-state motorcycle endorsement is accepted for riding in Colorado; a visiting rider with a valid out-of-state license and motorcycle endorsement may operate without a Colorado credential.

  • A new Colorado resident with a valid out-of-state motorcycle endorsement may transfer the endorsement when converting the out-of-state license, subject to the same testing requirements that apply to new applicants.

  • Active-duty military members stationed in Colorado may retain a valid out-of-state license and motorcycle endorsement and are not required to obtain a Colorado credential.

  • Military spouses and dependents may also retain an out-of-state credential under the same military exception.

  • A motorcycle-only out-of-state license (no automobile class) is not directly convertible to a Colorado driver license; the applicant must meet Colorado's driver license requirements separately.

  • An endorsement from a foreign country is not accepted as equivalent; the applicant must pass Colorado's knowledge and skills requirements.

Quick reference

Licensing Logistics

  • Knowledge tests for the motorcycle endorsement are administered at Colorado DMV offices; the skills test is administered at designated DMV locations or waived via MOST completion.

  • Appointments are recommended for both knowledge and skills testing; walk-in availability varies by office.

  • The skills test requires the applicant to provide a street-legal motorcycle, a helmet, and proof of insurance for the test vehicle.

  • The motorcycle used for the skills test must be properly registered and insured; the applicant's own motorcycle is typically used.

  • After passing the knowledge test, the applicant receives the motorcycle instruction permit and may schedule the skills test.

  • The endorsement is added to the existing Colorado driver license at the time of issuance; a new credential is printed and mailed.

  • If the applicant fails the skills test, a waiting period applies before retesting, and the permit remains valid for practice.

  • Address changes must be reported to the DMV; a replacement credential is issued with the updated endorsement information.

Quick reference

Motorcycle Endorsement Application Requirements and Process

  • Colorado uses a single motorcycle endorsement (the "M" endorsement) on a standard driver license; there is no separate motorcycle-only license class for applicants who also hold a Colorado driver license.

  • An applicant must already hold, or simultaneously obtain, a valid Colorado driver license or instruction permit; the motorcycle endorsement is added to that credential rather than issued alone.

  • Minimum age to obtain a motorcycle endorsement in Colorado is 18, or 16 with completion of an approved Motorcycle Operator Safety Training (MOST) course.

  • Required documents follow standard Colorado identification rules: proof of identity, proof of Colorado residency, and proof of Social Security number; lawful presence is verified for first-time applicants.

  • The knowledge test for the motorcycle endorsement must be passed before a motorcycle instruction permit is issued; the permit is the learner stage for the endorsement.

  • The skills (drive) test is waived for applicants who present a certificate of completion from a Colorado-approved MOST basic rider course.

  • Applicants under 18 must hold the motorcycle instruction permit for at least 12 months with no traffic convictions before the endorsement is issued.

  • Fees are set by statute and vary by county; the endorsement fee is collected at the time of issuance and is separate from the driver license fee.

Quick reference

Motorcycle Instruction Permit Rules, Including Minor and Parental-Liability Requirements

  • A motorcycle instruction permit authorizes operation of a motorcycle only when the permit holder is accompanied by a licensed motorcycle operator who is at least 21 years old and rides alongside or in close proximity.

  • Permit holders may not carry passengers other than the supervising licensed motorcycle operator.

  • A helmet is required by Colorado law for operators and passengers under 18; permit holders of any age must wear one while operating under the permit.

  • An applicant under 18 must have a parent, legal guardian, or responsible adult sign the permit application, accepting liability for the minor's operation.

  • The minor's permit is subject to the same restrictions as a minor driver's instruction permit, including no operation between midnight and 5 a.m. unless an exception applies.

  • A minor's motorcycle instruction permit is cancelled on the written request of the parent or guardian who signed the application.

  • The permit must be carried at all times while operating and presented to a peace officer on request.

  • A permit is valid for the period stated on the credential; it must be renewed if it expires before the endorsement is issued.

Quick reference

Motorcycle Operator Safety Training (MOST) and Approved Safety Training Programs

  • MOST is Colorado's Motorcycle Operator Safety Training program, administered by the Colorado Department of Transportation, that certifies and approves rider training courses in the state.

  • Completion of an approved basic rider course waives the motorcycle skills test for endorsement applicants.

  • Approved courses include a written/knowledge component and a riding component; both must be completed to receive the waiver.

  • Only courses from providers approved by the state program qualify; an out-of-state or unapproved course certificate does not automatically waive the skills test.

  • MOST courses are open to riders of all experience levels, including a basic rider course for beginners and advanced courses for experienced riders.

  • Course completion certificates are time-limited for waiver purposes; the applicant must apply for the endorsement within the period stated on the certificate.

  • MOST also administers a rider-training instructor certification process for coaches who deliver approved courses.

  • Course fees are set by the individual training providers, not by the state; the state program does not set a uniform tuition.

Quick reference

Endorsement Types and Out-of-State/Military Card Acceptance

  • Colorado issues one motorcycle endorsement, shown as "M" on the driver license; it authorizes operation of two-wheeled motorcycles and, unless restricted, three-wheeled motorcycles.

  • A restriction may be added to limit the holder to three-wheeled motorcycles only, based on the vehicle used for the skills test or a medical limitation.

  • An out-of-state motorcycle endorsement is accepted for riding in Colorado; a visiting rider with a valid out-of-state license and motorcycle endorsement may operate without a Colorado credential.

  • A new Colorado resident with a valid out-of-state motorcycle endorsement may transfer the endorsement when converting the out-of-state license, subject to the same testing requirements that apply to new applicants.

  • Active-duty military members stationed in Colorado may retain a valid out-of-state license and motorcycle endorsement and are not required to obtain a Colorado credential.

  • Military spouses and dependents may also retain an out-of-state credential under the same military exception.

  • A motorcycle-only out-of-state license (no automobile class) is not directly convertible to a Colorado driver license; the applicant must meet Colorado's driver license requirements separately.

  • An endorsement from a foreign country is not accepted as equivalent; the applicant must pass Colorado's knowledge and skills requirements.

Quick reference

Licensing Logistics

  • Knowledge tests for the motorcycle endorsement are administered at Colorado DMV offices; the skills test is administered at designated DMV locations or waived via MOST completion.

  • Appointments are recommended for both knowledge and skills testing; walk-in availability varies by office.

  • The skills test requires the applicant to provide a street-legal motorcycle, a helmet, and proof of insurance for the test vehicle.

  • The motorcycle used for the skills test must be properly registered and insured; the applicant's own motorcycle is typically used.

  • After passing the knowledge test, the applicant receives the motorcycle instruction permit and may schedule the skills test.

  • The endorsement is added to the existing Colorado driver license at the time of issuance; a new credential is printed and mailed.

  • If the applicant fails the skills test, a waiting period applies before retesting, and the permit remains valid for practice.

  • Address changes must be reported to the DMV; a replacement credential is issued with the updated endorsement information.