Before you may legally drive a motorbike in the state of Missouri, you must first get a motorcycle license or endorsement from the state. It is worthwhile to understand the motorcycle license application procedure, including the criteria, papers that must be provided, testing, and where to submit your application.

Obtaining a learner’s permit and passing a knowledge exam are required steps in obtaining a Missouri motorcycle license. This permission will enable you to practice riding a motorbike under the supervision of a qualified instructor. You must pass a road competence exam or successfully finish an authorized motorcycle rider training course (MRTC) to acquire a motorcycle license or endorsement.

Motorcycle Permit Requirements in Missouri

In Missouri, the minimum age to get a motorbike permit is 15 and a half years old. That said, applicants under 16 years of age will be subject to different criteria for motorcycle permit credentials, which will include knowledge on motorcycle safety. Motorcycle permits will not be given to under sixteen unless they have completed an authorized motorcycle rider training course beforehand. The completion of an MRTC is not mandatory for applicants who are 16 years of age or older. However, those who do not want to complete an MRTC will be denied admission.

Here are additional criteria for obtaining a motorbike permit in the state of Missouri:

  • The applicant must be a resident of Missouri.
  • The applicant must be a citizen of the United States or a legal inhabitant.
  • The applicant must be able to pass a vision and knowledge test.

Those who possess out-of-state licenses will not necessarily be able to legally drive motorcycles in Missouri, and they must convert their license to be road-ready.

The following forms of documentation are required to obtain a motorcycle license in Missouri:

  • Proof of name, date of birth, citizenship, or legal residence in the United States
  • A copy of your Social Security card
  • Proof of one’s home address
  • If you are opting out of the road skill test, you must provide proof of MRTC accomplishment.
  • If the applicant is under the age of eighteen, parental permission is required.

How Long Does It Take to Acquire a Motorcycle License in Missouri?

The time it takes to get a license depends on a number of variables, including your age, whether or not you plan to enroll in an authorized education course, and how well you do on your tests.

If you are under the age of 18 and are applying for a motorcycle license, it is essential to understand that you must retain your permit for a minimum of 182 days before applying for a full license. Furthermore, you must qualify for any traffic ticket convictions within the previous six months or alcohol-related offenses within the last 12 months. To get a motorcycle license in Missouri, you must pass a road skill test administered by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or finish an authorized motorcycle rider training school.

When it comes to people who are 18 years of age or older, no required minimum length of time must elapse between the day that your motorbike permit is granted and the date that you try the road skill examination. That said, many candidates feel it more convenient and advantageous to take an educational course rather than try the road skill test.

Those interested in obtaining a motorbike license after completing the procedures above should be aware that they must visit their local Department of Motor Vehicles in person since licensing applications cannot be filed electronically. In some instances, you may be required to resubmit your paperwork as well as pass an extra eye examination before a license may be granted.

Missouri DMV Motorcycle Test Details

When applying for a motorcycle license in Missouri, you may be required to take both the motorcycle permit exam and the road competence test, depending on how you acquire your license inside the state. The motorcycle permit test is a written exam that all candidates must complete to get their permission. On the other hand, completing an authorized motorcycle rider training course will allow you to avoid taking the road skill test.

  • Motorcycle Written Test

You must pass the written DMV motorcycle test with flying colors to be granted a learner’s permit. It is a multiple-choice exam. Essential motorcycle operations will be covered, as well as safe driving practices and the state of Missouri traffic regulations, in this test.

  • Motorcycle Road Test

You will be required to show your competence to ride a motorbike safely and comply with state and local regulations as part of the road motorcycle test. You may be assessed on your ability to do the following tasks throughout this exam:

  • Accelerate, make a safe turn, and then brake
  • See, be seen, and communicate with other drivers are all important considerations
  • Adjust your pace and location to be more suitable for the current traffic conditions
  • Stop, turn, and swerve in a short amount of time
  • Choose safe speeds to travel at when carrying out different maneuvers
  • Adhere to the appropriate routes and established guidelines

Final Thoughts

As you start this process, it is key to remember that the application procedure can vary from person to person. It is distinct between new Missouri residents wanting to transfer an existing license and residents trying to get their first Missouri driver’s license, among other things.

If you need more guidance as you start your motorcycle journey, Beginner Riders is a great place to begin! On our site, you’ll find content to help you find the best bike for beginners and more. Explore our blog today!