Do You Need a Driver’s License to Get a Motorcycle License in Colorado?
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?
Before applying for a motorcycle endorsement, it’s important to be aware of the eligibility requirements:
- You must be at least 16 years old to apply for a motorcycle endorsement
- Individuals between the ages of 16 and 18 must have a motorcycle instruction permit for a year before receiving their motorcycle endorsement
- You must hold a valid driver’s license before applying for your motorcycle endorsement
Types of Motorcycle Endorsements
There are two different types of motorcycle endorsements in Colorado:
- M endorsement – This allows you to ride both two- and three-wheeled motorcycles
- 3 endorsement – This only allows you to ride three-wheeled motorcycles
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:
- Pass a written motorcycle exam that evaluates your knowledge of basic motorcycle operations and traffic laws
- Purchase a motorcycle instruction permit
- Pass a motorcycle driving skills test
- Purchase your motorcycle endorsement at your local driver’s license office
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:
- Complete a MOST course
- Take a written and on-bike skills test with your MOST instructor
- Present the waiver you receive upon completion of your MOST course at the DMV to skip the DMV tests and qualify for your motorcycle endorsement
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?
In 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:
- Option 1 – Passing grade on the motorcycle written exam, purchased motorcycle instruction permit and a passing grade on the motorcycle drive skills test
- Option 2 – Completion of MOST course and a MOST license waiver card
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:
- Online
- By mail
- In person at the Colorado DMV
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:
- Fines
- Court fees
- Up to 40 hours of community service
- 4 points on your license for riding without an endorsement
Defending Your Riding Skills After a Motorcycle Accident
Even 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.
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