Motorcycle Endorsement In Michigan State

Although there is no separate motorcycle license in Michigan, riders must obtain a "CY" license endorsement to ride legally. However, it is not as simple as applying for the endorsement. Riders should be prepared to go through several procedures.

Applying For Motorcycle Endorsement

In Michigan, there are two ways to obtain a motorcycle endorsement:
  • Complete a Michigan Rider Education Program (MI-REP) approved training course, or
  • Obtain a motorcycle Temporary Instruction Permit (CY TIP) from a Secretary of State office, ride for up to 180 days with an experienced motorcyclist, and pass a rider skills test offered by an approved driver testing business.

Temporary Motorcycle Permit

The first step toward legally riding a motorcycle in Michigan is to apply for a 180-day Temporary Instruction Permit (TIP) from the Secretary of State. Applicants must already have a valid Michigan driver's license and pay a small fee for the TIP. Applicants must also pass a standard vision test and a written exam that assesses their knowledge of traffic laws and bike handling. After overcoming these obstacles, the applicant is eligible for a TIP, but they must pass a practical exam before receiving their CY endorsement. A Temporary Instruction Permit (CY TIP) for motorcycles is a temporary tool used to obtain a motorcycle endorsement. Before taking the motorcycle skills test, it allows new riders to practice riding on public roads under the constant supervision of an experienced motorcyclist. To obtain a CY TIP, you must do the following:
  • You must be at least 16 years old.
  • (If you are 16 or 17, you must show proof of enrollment in a motorcycle rider safety training course and a parent's signature, unless you are an emancipated minor.)
  • You must have a valid Michigan driver's license.
  • Pass the vision examination
  • Pass the written motorcycle knowledge test
  • You must pay the TIP fee.
Under Michigan law, no more than two motorcycle TIPs may be issued in 10 years. If your second TIP has expired or you have failed two motorcycle skills tests, you will need to take a motorcycle safety course before getting your motorcycle endorsement.

Motorcycle Skills Test

The applicant must pass a motorcycle skills test within 180 days of receiving the TIP. Many of these are followed by a motorcycle safety course designed to teach riders everything they need to know about riding a motorcycle safely. During the road test, an evaluator will watch the rider perform various tasks and maneuvers, demonstrating mastery and control over the motorcycle, such as U-turns, sharp turns, and braking.

Full Endorsement

After passing the tests, the applicant must submit the necessary paperwork to the Secretary of State to receive the CY endorsement on their license. This includes proof of registration, insurance, and completed tests and certificates.

Motorcycle Classes Offered In Michigan

Michigan has a wide range of classes for riders of all skill levels.
  • Basic RiderCourse (BRC)
    • The Basic RiderCourse is designed for inexperienced riders and covers the fundamentals of motorcycle operation. Riders who complete the course will be able to obtain a motorcycle endorsement.
  • Three-Wheel Basic RiderCourse (3WBRC)
    • Three-Wheel Basic RiderCourse is designed specifically for three-wheeled motorcycles. The course consists of four hours of classroom instruction and eight hours of on-cycle riding practice. Students who complete this course are only eligible for the three-wheel motorcycle endorsement.
  • Returning Rider-Basic RiderCourse (RRBRC)
    • Returning Rider-Basic RiderCourse is a one-day waiver class for motorcyclists who have basic skills but haven't ridden in a while and want to get their motorcycle endorsement.
  • Basic RiderCourse 2 (BRC2)
    • Basic RiderCourse 2 is a one-day waiver class for experienced riders who want to refresh their skills and obtain a motorcycle endorsement.
  • Advanced RiderCourse (ARC)
    • The Advanced RiderCourse is designed for experienced, endorsed riders who want to improve their skills in swerving, turning, and quick stops. Motorcycle organizations may require this course before participants can register for group rides. The ARC is intended for riders with a CY endorsement on their license.
If you have completed one of these courses and want to get your cycle endorsement on your driver's license, you must show a valid certificate of completion from the course provider. The certificate of completion must be issued within one year of the date of the endorsement application, and it must include a certifying/authorized signature as well as the date of course completion.

Requirements

  • For the Basic RiderCourse (BRC), you must bring a driver's license or photo identification, a U.S. DOT-approved helmet, eye protection, a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, full-fingered gloves, and leather ankle boots are all required.
  • Everything required for the Basic RiderCourse, plus your road-worthy motorcycle and valid proof of insurance, is required for the advanced courses (BRC2, RRBRC, ARC). When you register, check with your course sponsor for more information.

Options In Adding Motorcycle Endorsement In Michigan

To operate a motorcycle, individuals must obtain a motorcycle endorsement for their operator's or chauffeur's license in addition to meeting the requirements for obtaining a regular driver's license, according to the Michigan Secretary of State. You can get Michigan Motorcycle Endorsement by going to:

Online

To add a motorcycle endorsement online, you must do the following:
  • You must be at least 18 years old.
  • You must have a valid Michigan driver's license.
  • Have passed an approved motorcycle rider education course provided by a public or private sponsor or a rider skills test provided by an approved driver testing company.
  • Go to Online Services.
  • Navigate to the Driver's License and ID section and click the "More Driver Services" link.
  • To complete your transaction, create or log into your Secretary of State online account and follow the screen prompts.
  • You can pay with a credit or debit card (additional fees apply) or an e-check/bank account number. The cost of a motorcycle endorsement is $16.

Self-Service Station

You must do the following to add a motorcycle endorsement at a self-service station:
  • Have passed a motorcycle rider education course provided by a public or private sponsor or a rider skills test provided by an approved driver testing business.
  • You should renew your driver's license.
  • Enter the number from your driver's license.
  • Follow the screen prompts to renew your license and add a motorcycle endorsement.
  • Pay with cash or a debit/credit card (additional fees apply) (at specific locations). The cost of a motorcycle endorsement is $16. There will be additional license renewal fees.
Each item purchased at a self-service station will incur a $3.95 service fee.

In Person

To add a motorcycle endorsement in person, you must first:
  • Have passed an approved motorcycle rider education course provided by a public or private sponsor or a rider skills test provided by an approved driver testing company.
  • You must have a valid Michigan driver's license.
  • You can pay with cash, check, money order, or credit or debit card (additional fees will apply). The cost of a motorcycle endorsement is $16.