If you’re ready to explore Montana’s open roads on two wheels, the first step is earning your motorcycle license. Getting licensed is more than a rule—it’s about learning how to ride safely, confidently, and responsibly.
Montana’s wide highways, mountain passes, and sudden weather changes demand skill and awareness. The good news is that the state makes it simple to get licensed if you follow the right steps.
1. Check If You’re Eligible
Before proceeding, ensure you qualify.
To apply for a motorcycle endorsement in Montana, you must already hold a valid Montana driver’s license.
If you’re 16 or older, you can apply directly. Riders who are 15 can apply too, but only after completing an approved driver’s education program, according to the Montana Department of Justice Motor Vehicle Division.
Meeting these requirements ensures you can legally begin learning to ride.
2. Get Your Motorcycle Learner Permit
Next, apply for a motorcycle learner permit at your local MVD office.
You’ll need to pass a vision exam and a written knowledge test. All test questions are based on the Montana Motorcycle Manual (PDF), which covers traffic laws, gear use, and safe riding practices.
Your permit allows you to practice riding under the supervision of a licensed motorcyclist, and it’s valid for one year.
If you’re new, practice in a parking lot or low-traffic area first. That’s the best way to build control and balance before heading into real traffic.
3. Choose Your Path: Testing or Safety Course
Once you’ve practiced with your permit, you have two routes to earn your endorsement.
Option A: Take the Knowledge and Skills Tests
You can complete both tests directly through the Montana MVD.
The road test checks your ability to start, stop, turn, and handle the motorcycle safely.
You’ll need solid clutch control and awareness of lane positioning.
I recommend studying the manual and practicing quick stops, swerves, and slow-speed turns—these are part of every state test.
Option B: Complete a Motorcycle Safety Course
For most riders, this is the smarter path.
The Montana Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MMSF) and the Montana Motorcycle Rider Safety (MMRS) program offer certified courses across the state.
The Basic RiderCourse (BRC) teaches the essentials: safe braking, turning, and hazard avoidance. It combines classroom instruction with 10 hours of on-cycle training. Completing it waives the state skills test, so you can go straight to the MVD for your endorsement.
More advanced riders can take the BRC2 or Advanced RiderCourse (ARC) to refine high-speed handling and defensive riding skills.
Many programs now use hybrid formats where classroom learning happens online, followed by hands-on range sessions, according to the MMRS hybrid course guide.
On top of that, finishing a certified course may lower your motorcycle insurance premiums by 10–20%, according to major carriers cited by the Montana Motorcycle Rider Safety Program.
4. Visit the MVD for Your Endorsement
Once you pass your tests or complete a safety course, bring your completion certificate to the Montana MVD.
Pay the small endorsement fee (typically under $1 per year), and your “M” endorsement will be added to your license.
Before riding, register your motorcycle and verify your insurance coverage meets state minimums. Montana law requires liability insurance, but it’s smart to choose higher coverage for better protection.
5. Keep Building Skills and Safety Awareness
Earning your license isn’t the end—it’s your starting line.
Montana’s conditions can change fast: gravel roads, wildlife crossings, and sharp winds are common.
The Montana Motorcycle Safety Foundation encourages riders to keep training and connect with local programs for ongoing education.
Each year, events like the Beartooth Rally and Iron Horse Rodeo and the Montana Super State CMA Rally combine fun and safety workshops.
You’ll find group rides, safety demos, and advanced training sessions hosted by MMSF instructors.
For continuing education, the Vision Zero Motorcycle Safety Program provides safety statistics, crash data, and riding tips tailored for Montana’s roads.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to license a motorcycle in Montana?
The motorcycle endorsement fee is typically less than $1 per year in Montana.
However, you’ll also pay registration and insurance costs.
Basic registration usually ranges from $20–$40, depending on your motorcycle’s type and weight, as listed by the Montana Motor Vehicle Division.
Training courses vary by provider, averaging $200–$275 for the Basic RiderCourse.
How many questions are on the Montana motorcycle permit test?
The written knowledge test has 25 multiple-choice questions based on the Montana Motorcycle Manual.
You must answer at least 20 questions correctly (80%) to pass.
Topics include safe riding habits, traffic laws, and handling emergency situations.
Is lane splitting in Montana legal?
No. Lane splitting (riding between lanes of stopped or moving traffic) is not legal in Montana.
Motorcyclists must ride in a single lane and obey all standard traffic laws, as defined by Montana’s Motor Vehicle Code.
Sharing a lane side-by-side with one other motorcycle is allowed, but only if both riders agree.
Is a motorcycle license harder to get than a car license?
Not really—it’s just different.
The motorcycle licensing process includes a written test, vision check, and road skills test, similar to getting a car license.
However, because balance and control are key, riders must demonstrate real handling skills.
Completing a Montana Motorcycle Safety Foundation course often makes the process easier and can replace the road test.
What is the best beginner motorcycle?
For new riders in Montana, smaller bikes between 250cc and 500cc are ideal.
Models like the Honda Rebel 300, Kawasaki Z400, or Yamaha MT-03 are lightweight, forgiving, and easy to control during training.
During MMSF courses, students typically ride small-displacement training bikes provided by the Montana Motorcycle Rider Safety Program, which are perfect for learning safe handling and balance before upgrading.
Ride Smarter, Ride Safer
The Montana Motorcycle Safety Foundation is here to support you with the skills, knowledge, and mindset to ride with confidence.
Even if you’re not signing up for a course today, you can still take the first step: commit to becoming a safer rider. That mindset shift could save your life — and every mile ahead will feel better because of it.
Ready to sharpen your skills?
Explore MMSF courses today and ride with confidence.
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