Montana Motorcycle Endorsement: Licensing and Application Process
Montana Motorcycle Endorsement: Licensing and Application Process
The Montana Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) tests whether you know how to get legal before you ride. Expect questions on the endorsement itself, the knowledge and skills tests, approved-course waivers, and the rules that apply to younger riders.
The endorsement path
Montana requires a motorcycle endorsement on a valid Montana driver license before you operate a motorcycle on public roads. The endorsement is added after you pass the motorcycle knowledge test, a vision screening, and either the MVD motorcycle skills test or an approved rider-course skills evaluation. Completing an approved Montana Motorcycle Rider Safety Program course can waive the MVD riding test, but it does not waive the knowledge test or the fee. Riders under 18 need parental consent and must wear a helmet.
Worked example
A 19-year-old with a Montana Class D license completes an approved Basic RiderCourse in May and asks whether she must also take the MVD skills test. Answer: no - the approved course completion waives the MVD riding test. She still must pass the motorcycle knowledge test, pass vision screening, pay the endorsement fee, and have the M endorsement added to her license before riding alone.
Traps
- A regular driver license does not authorize motorcycle operation.
- A rider course is not a substitute for the knowledge test.
- Do not assume any course qualifies; confirm it is approved for the waiver.
- Riding before the endorsement is added is riding without a valid license.