Nothing says freedom like riding your motorcycle down Texas’ long, winding highways. Like any other vehicle on the roads, you need a license to ride legally. With 8.8 million registered motorcycles, per the IIHS, it should be no surprise that every state has its own licensing requirements.
The Lone Star State is no exception, meaning you must conform to Texas’ motorcycle licensing requirements. Unfortunately, more motorcycles on the road also mean a higher risk of accidents. If you’ve been involved in a crash, consulting an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer in Austin, TX can help protect your rights.
In this guide, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about getting road ready with your bike.
Key Takeaways
- Possessing a Class M or Class CM license is a legal requirement for operating a motorcycle in Texas.
- Motorbike licensing requirements change based on age and whether you already have a regular driving license. Requirements may include completing an approved safety course, passing a road test, and passing a written test.
- The earliest you can legally ride a motorcycle or moped in Texas is 15, but you must be at least 16 to receive a full and unrestricted license.
- After completing all prerequisites, getting a Class M license in Texas costs $33 for a new license, but most applicants spend a few hundred dollars for all the relevant tests and courses.
- Once an applicant has successfully applied for their license, their DPS office will often approve and provide your license within 24 hours, with many receiving one on the same day.
- Young riders are at considerable risk, with Texas being the second most dangerous state for riders. You’re entitled to sue for damages if you’re hit by a negligent driver. Speak to a lawyer for help on filing your lawsuit.
What are the Requirements to Get a Motorcycle License in Texas?
Three routes exist for getting a motorcycle license in Texas. You can use an unexpired out-of-state license to get a Texas license. Alternatively, applicants over 18 with a driving license can get a motorcycle license by passing an approved safety course, paying a fee to the Texas Department of Safety (DPS), and waiting for your motorcycle endorsement to be approved.
The rules are different if you’re either under 18 or you don’t have a driver's license. Getting a motorcycle endorsement requires you to hold a valid Texas driver's license, requiring you to:
- Pass a written test.
- Pass a road test.
- Passing the motorcycle safety course.
Applicants under 18 can also receive a driving license and a motorcycle endorsement, but they must also provide evidence of a provisional license and either a learner’s permit or produce a completion certificate after passing a driver’s education course.
Minimum Age Requirements for Motorcycle License Applicants
The earliest age you can legally ride a motorbike in Texas is 15. However, if you’re 15 you can only get a Class M license, also known as an MR license. You must be at least 16 to receive the regular unrestricted Class M or Class CM license.
How Much Does a Motorcycle License Cost in Texas?
Motorcycle licensing costs depend on whether you already have a regular driving license. A conventional Class M license in Texas costs $33 for a new license or just $15 if you’re adding it to your existing driving license.
If you have to take the motorcycle safety course, expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $300, depending on the provider. Additionally, if you haven’t already got a standard driving license and are starting from nothing, you’ll have to pay for driving lessons, examinations, and permits, which can add a few hundred dollars to the total cost.
Actionable Steps to Obtain Your Texas Motorcycle License
Obtaining your Texas motorcycle license is relatively simple, with a defined process set out by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Follow these steps to claim your right to ride.
Complete a DPS-Approved Motorcycle Safety Course
Start by enrolling in a motorcycle safety course approved by the Texas Department of Public Safety. If you’ve already got a license, you’ll need to complete this one-day course, allowing you to skip the written and skills portions of the tests.
The course will cover a variety of subjects, such as:
- Safe acceleration
- Safe braking
- Safe steering
- Emergency maneuvers
- Motorcycle inspections
Note that you can complete a motorcycle skills test on the road instead of completing the motorcycle safety course. Applicants under 18 must pass both.
Successfully Passing the Written Knowledge Test
All applicants must also pass a written knowledge test. The test covers different aspects of Texas’ motorcycle laws. Other subjects forming part of the test include road signage and motorcycle safety practices.
Study materials are available online. One of the best study aides is the Texas Motorcycle Operator’s Manual. You’ll also find various websites with mock tests to help you prepare for your big day.
Submit Your Documentation
All riders must apply for their motorcycle license at their nearest Texas DPS office. You’ll need the following documentation as part of your application:
- Valid photo ID
- Social Security Number
- Proof of completion for your motorcycle safety course
- Proof of completion of your written test
- Pay the application fees at your local Texas DPS office, fill out the forms they provide, and sign them.
Understanding Types of Motorcycle Licenses in Texas
Texas offers three motorcycle license types in Texas, allowing you to operate different types of motorcycles. Riding motorcycles without the proper license for the motorcycle you’re driving can result in fines and suspension because not having the correct license is akin to not having a valid motorcycle license.
The three licenses are:
- Class M – A Class M license is the standard Texas unrestricted motorcycle license allowing you to ride any type of motorcycle.
- Class M (J Restriction) – If a Class M license has a J restriction, you may only ride a motorcycle of 250cc or less. This is designed for 16-year-olds who want to ride.
- Class M (K Restriction) – This restricted Class M license is for 15-year-olds and only allows you to ride a moped of 50cc or less legally.
Class M vs. Class CM Driving License
The Class M license is the basic motorcycle license, allowing you to pilot a motorcycle anywhere in Texas. If you have a Class CM license, this is a conventional driving license with a motorcycle endorsement attached.
How Can Out-of-State Applicants Get a Motorcycle License
Texas allows out-of-state applicants to convert an unexpired motorcycle license from another state into a valid Texas motorcycle license. If you’ve moved from another state, you’ll need to visit your nearest Texas DPS with your unexpired out-of-state license.
Unlike Texas residents, you don’t need to take any tests if your motorcycle license is still active. Instead, you’ll need to provide proof of residency in Texas and pay a small fee to convert your license to a Texas license.
Note that the rules work differently for minors. Out-of-state minors must still complete the relevant education portions of the licensing process, even if they already have an active license from elsewhere.
If you’re in this situation, use the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation to find your nearest training location.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Motorcycle License in Texas?
Getting a motorcycle license in Texas is extremely quick. If you’re ready to apply for your license with the Texas DPS, you can receive it the same day you apply.
Most of the time it takes to get a motorbike license is passing the relevant motorcycle safety courses and other tests. If you’re a minor or someone without a driving license, the process could take months, depending on how long it takes for you to gain the knowledge and confidence needed to navigate Texas’ roads with your motorcycle safely.
What if I Fail the Written or Skills Test?
Failing the written or skills test doesn’t have to mean losing your ability to get a license. Instead, you’ll be given feedback from the test you failed that you can use to prepare for a future test. The written test may be retaken immediately, but if you fail the skills test, your application for a new driving test will be held for 90 days.
Can You Get a Motorcycle License If You Have a Previous Driving Violation?
In most cases, previous driving violations will not impact whether you can get a motorcycle license. It all depends on the nature and frequency of the violations on your driving record.
For example, a one-time case of slightly exceeding the speeding limit likely won’t gain any attention from the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. In contrast, your application might be rejected if you’ve got a long record of driving under the influence, speeding tickets, and reckless driving.
Other requirements may also be added to the licensing process. Some applicants with poor driving histories may be asked to complete an approved defensive driving course as a condition of receiving their license.
Legal Considerations for Young and New Motorcycle Riders
Young and new motorcycle riders must understand the risks of handling a motorbike. According to the National Highway Transport Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorbike riders are four times likelier to get injured and up to 24 times likelier to die than occupants of other vehicle types.
There’s no doubt that motorbikes are considerably more dangerous than conventional cars, and that’s why young riders must be aware of the legal side of things.
Primary Motorcycle Laws for Riders in Texas
Breaking any motorcycle law puts you at risk of fines, license suspension, higher auto insurance premiums, and even incarceration. It can also hurt your ability to claim a fair settlement if you’re hurt in an accident that wasn’t your fault due to Texas’ shared fault laws.
So, what are the primary laws young and inexperienced riders must be aware of?
Licensing Requirements
All riders must have a Class M or Class CM license to ride a motorcycle legally in Texas. Not having a license is a serious violation that could result in criminal penalties, including fines and jail time.
Despite this, Transport International Research Documentation found that an estimated 20% of motorbike riders in the U.S. don’t have a valid license.
Equipment Laws
Motorbike condition is crucial for protecting you and supporting your lawsuit if you’re injured. Non-functional equipment could result in you incurring partial liability for any accident.
All motorcycles must have working and well-maintained:
- Headlights
- Taillights
- Mirrors
- Turn signals
- Brakes
- Horns
- Exhaust systems
Texas Helmet Laws
In Texas, all riders under 21 must wear a helmet at all times. Riders older than 21 don’t have to wear a helmet if they’ve either completed a motorcycle safety course approved by the DPS or have a motorcycle insurance policy that provides medical benefits.
Note that just because you might not be legally required to wear a helmet doesn’t mean it’s a smart idea. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), wearing a helmet reduces fatality risk by 37% for riders and reduces the risk of brain injuries by 69%.
Lane Splitting and Sharing Laws
Lane splitting, or weaving between traffic, is illegal in Texas. You must stay in your lane and can’t pass other vehicles by riding between lanes, regardless of whether the traffic is moving or stationary.
However, Texas law does allow riders to lane share. Motorcycles may ride side-by-side in a single lane, as long as both riders agree. Note that choosing a staggered formation is always safer than riding in parallel.
Motorcycle Specific Laws in Texas
The above laws apply to all road users, not just motorcycles. However, the Lone Star State has a selection of laws that apply specifically to motorcycles. These include:
- All motorcycles must keep their headlights on permanently, including during the day.
- Motorcyclists may not ride on the shoulder to bypass traffic.
- You must have a dedicated passenger seat and footrest to carry passengers.
Motorcycle Insurance Requirements
Every licensed motorcycle operator must possess a valid auto insurance policy. In Texas, the minimum liability insurance follows what’s known as the 30/60/25 model, which is:
- $30,000 in bodily injury coverage per party.
- $60,000 coverage for bodily injury per accident.
- $25,000 in property damage coverage.
Lane Splitting and Sharing Laws
Lane splitting, or weaving between traffic, is illegal in Texas. You must stay in your lane and can’t pass other vehicles by riding between lanes, regardless of whether the traffic is moving or stationary. Learn more about Texas lane splitting laws. However, Texas law does allow riders to lane share. Motorcycles may ride side-by-side in a single lane as long as both riders agree. Note that choosing a staggered formation is always safer than riding in parallel.
Understand that these are the minimum requirements, but they’ll rarely cover an accident in full. It’s strongly recommended that you opt for a comprehensive motorcycle insurance policy to ensure you’re fully covered whatever happens.
What Should You Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Texas?
Knowing what to do after an accident is crucial for all riders to protect themselves and comply with the law. According to the Austin-American Statesman, Texas is the second most dangerous state for motorbike accidents, with fatalities spiking by 25% in the last decade.
If you’re involved in an accident, follow these steps:
- Inspect yourself for injuries and call 911 if you require immediate medical attention.
- Call the police and ask for a traffic officer to attend.
- Exchange insurance and contact details with other drivers, as required by law.
- Gather evidence from the scene by using your smartphone to take pictures of damage and visible injuries.
- Wait for a police officer to arrive and fill out an accident report.
- Seek medical attention by heading to your nearest ER to check for any hidden injuries.
- Notify your insurer that you’ve been involved in an accident.
The final step is to contact an experienced motorcycle accident attorney to discuss what happens next. They’ll help you deal with insurance adjusters, file legal paperwork, and get the fair settlement you deserve, so that you’re not left out of pocket if you’re injured.
Can You Sue for Injuries After a Motorcycle Crash in Texas?
All injured parties are entitled to sue after a motorbike accident. Texas is a comparative fault state, meaning you can still receive financial compensation even if you’re partially to blame for an accident.
How much you’re entitled to depends entirely on the situation, as every crash is unique. Some of the damages you can claim for include:
- Medical costs
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Wrongful death
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney After Your Motorcycle Accident
Young and inexperienced riders in Texas are at risk from all manner of road hazards after they get their licenses. Even if you’re the most careful rider in the world, there are no guarantees that you won’t be hit by a negligent driver.
If you were involved in an accident that wasn’t your fault, you need the very best legal representation to get the settlement you deserve. Get in touch with DJC Law for your free consultation and learn how much you could be entitled to today.
