Free Consultations303.372.6145 ☰ Menu

Personal Injury Info - Dog Bites, Motorcycle Accidents, Slip and Fall Injury

Blog

Do You Need a Driver’s License to Get a Motorcycle License in Colorado?

Posted on: March 29th, 2024

Riding a motorcycle can be an exhilarating experience. This is especially true in Colorado, where you have access to an abundance of beautiful mountain rides with scenic landscapes. But before you can ride a motorcycle, you need to get a motorcycle license.

Colorado doesn’t have a specific motorcycle license. Instead, you must apply for a motorcycle endorsement that gets added to your regular driver’s license. You must have a valid driver’s license before you can apply for your motorcycle endorsement.

Who Is Eligible to Get a Motorcycle License in Colorado?

man taking classes to get a motorcycle licenseBefore applying for a motorcycle endorsement, it’s important to be aware of the eligibility requirements:

Types of Motorcycle Endorsements

There are two different types of motorcycle endorsements in Colorado:

What Is the Process for Obtaining a Motorcycle Endorsement in Colorado?

Once you have a valid driver’s license, there are two ways you can obtain your motorcycle endorsement.

Option 1

This option involves passing several tests to demonstrate your competence riding a motorcycle. The process involves the following steps:

Option 2

You also have the option to bypass the tests listed in option 1 by taking a Motorcycle Operator Safety Training (MOST) course. Many people prefer this option to taking the series of tests required in the traditional method of obtaining a motorcycle endorsement.

This process involves the following steps:

With both options, you will need to visit your local driver’s license office in person to obtain your motorcycle endorsement. You cannot add the endorsement over the phone, by mail or online.

What Documents Do You Need to Apply for Your Colorado Motorcycle Endorsement?

documents needed for a Colorado motorcycle endorsementIn order to apply for your motorcycle endorsement, you’ll need a valid Colorado driver’s license. In addition, you will need proof of completion of the following items depending on which option you choose for obtaining your endorsement:

Does My Motorcycle Endorsement Expire?

There is no expiration date on your motorcycle endorsement. Once you’ve added the endorsement to your driver’s license, it will remain valid as long as your license is valid.

However, you’ll need to renew your motorcycle license periodically. Both Class M and Class 3 endorsements must be renewed every five years. To renew your motorcycle endorsement, you must follow the standard renewal process for your driver’s license since the endorsement is added to your regular license. You can renew your license in one of the following ways:

To be eligible to renew your motorcycle endorsement, you must have a valid driver’s license and be at least 21 years old. The documents required for renewal may vary based on the method used to renew. If you’re applying in person or by mail, you’ll need to complete the required application form and provide proof of identity. In addition, if your address has changed since you received your last license, you’ll need to provide proof of your updated address.

The cost of renewing your motorcycle license is $30.87 for your driver’s license plus an additional $2.00 for the motorcycle endorsement.

Penalties for Riding without a Valid Motorcycle License

If you ride your motorcycle without a valid motorcycle endorsement on your driver’s license, you may potentially incur the following penalties:

Defending Your Riding Skills After a Motorcycle Accident

Colorado motorcycle accident lawyerEven if you have a valid motorcycle endorsement on your driver’s license, a defense attorney may try to attack your riding skills in a lawsuit following a motorcycle accident. This defense strategy is commonly used to make it seem as if you are at least partially at fault for the motorcycle accident in order to reduce the amount of compensation they must pay for your damages. At Pushchak Law, we’re here to fight aggressively for your rights to ensure your motorcycle skills are not in question.

Brian Pushchak has made motorcycle accident lawsuits a primary focus of his practice. He understands the complex laws governing these cases, and he knows the tactics used by insurance companies to unfairly reduce the value of your compensation. This area of specialization ensures you receive the expert representation necessary to receive the full compensation you deserve.

You’ll also benefit from Mr. Pushchak’s Informed Decisions™ Approach focused on helping you achieve the best possible outcome to your case. This unique approach places you in control of the entire process. Mr. Pushchak will discuss your case with you in detail to understand your desired outcome. He’ll work with you to develop the best strategy to achieve your goals and answer any questions you may have about the strategy.

Once you understand all your legal rights and options, you’ll have the final say on how we handle your case. This collaborative process keeps Mr. Pushchak aligned with your best interests at all times.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. Pushchak Law serves clients in Denver and the surrounding areas of Colorado.

Brian Pushchak | Personal Injury Law Firm Denver, CO
Latest posts by Brian Pushchak | Personal Injury Law Firm Denver, CO (see all)

Free Case Consultation

If you have been injured and would like to speak with one of our attorneys, take advantage of our free, no-obligation consultation. And if you have a viable case, there are no fees until we win.

Call 303.372.6145

Schedule Today

© Pushchak Law Firm | Denver Dog Bite Attorney | Motorcycle Accident Lawyer | Personal Injury Attorney Denver | by Webolutions Digitial Marketing Agency