Mississippi Motorcycle Licensing
Motorcycle License, Permits, Training & Insurance
The content below is for informational purposes only and was last updated in December 2025. For the most up-to-date information, please consult the Mississippi Department of Revenue, Motor Vehicle Services and theMississippi Department of Public Safety (DPS).
Operating a Motorcycle in Mississippi
The requirements to operate a motorcycle in Mississippi include:
- Meet the state’s minimum age requirement.
- Obtain a Mississippi motorcycle learner permit and/or motorcycle license endorsement.
- Obtain insurance coverage that meets Mississippi’s minimum liability requirements.
Getting a Mississippi Motorcycle Permit
Permit requirements and restrictions include:
- Be at least 15 years of age.
- Operate the motorcycle only under the direct supervision of a person age 21 years or older who has a valid driver’s license with a motorcycle endorsement.
- The permit holder may not carry a passenger.
- The permit holder may not operate on a controlled-access highway, such as the interstate.
- The permit holder may not operate the motorcycle during the hours of 6:00 p.m. through 6:00 a.m.
- The permit must be held for one (1) year or until the applicant reaches the age of 17, whichever occurs first.
Getting a Mississippi Motorcycle Endorsement
To legally operate a motorcycle in Mississippi, you must obtain a motorcycle endorsement on your valid Class R driver’s license.
Steps to obtain an endorsement include:
- Hold a valid Mississippi driver’s license.
- Pass a written test and a riding test.
- Submit the necessary documents and pay the required fees.
Motorcycle Education & Safety Training
Riders in Mississippi are strongly encouraged to complete a motorcycle safety training course. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation offers safety riding courses throughout the state. The Basic course can be completed within a few days or a weekend, depending on the location and the type of course, whereas the Experienced Rider courses can be completed within half a day.
Helmets
Mississippi enforces a helmet law for all motorcycle operators. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation can assist with finding the right helmet for you, which must be DOT-compliant.
Disclaimer: This article has been provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute as legal advice. This article is based on the most reliable information available on the date of publication. Motorcycle laws are subject to change. For legal guidance and to ensure you have the most up-to-date information, please consult qualified legal counsel or your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles.
The MS DMV requires motorcyclists to have current coverage that meets the state’s minimum requirements on all registered vehicles. Before riding in Mississippi, make sure your coverage meets the state’s requirements.
To make sure you have the right coverage at the right price, come see what Rider can do for you.
Want to find out more about motorcycle coverage requirements in other states?
