Minnesota Motorcycle Licensing
Motorcycle License, Training & Insurance
The content below is for informational purposes only and was last updated as of March 2026. For the most up-to-date information, please consult the Minnesota Department of Public Safety and the Motorcycle and Motorized Bicycle Manual.
Operating a Motorcycle in Minnesota
The requirements to legally operate a motorcycle in Minnesota include:
- Holding a valid driver’s license with the appropriate instruction permit or endorsement.
- Registering your motorcycle with the state.
- Maintaining valid insurance for your motorcycle.
Getting a Minnesota Motorcycle Instruction Permit
The first step toward becoming a licensed motorcyclist in Minnesota is obtaining an instruction permit on your driver’s license.
How to Get a Permit:
- Pass the motorcycle knowledge (written) test at a driver examination station.
- If you are under the age of 18, you must present a certificate of completion of a state-approved motorcycle rider training course.
- Pay the permit fee.
Restrictions When Riding on a Permit:
- You must wear a DOT-approved helmet and eye protection.
- No passengers allowed.
- No riding at night (defined as ½ hour after sunset to ½ hour before sunrise).
Permit Validity:
- Valid for one year from the date it was issued.
- If your permit expires before you obtain an endorsement, you will have to retake the knowledge test and pay the permit fee again.
Obtaining a Minnesota Motorcycle Endorsement
Once you have a valid instruction permit and pass the road test, you can obtain the full motorcycle endorsement.
Items to Bring to the Road Test:
- Current driver’s license.
- Motorcycle permit.
- Motorcycle properly equipped with current registration, stickers and license plates.
- Proof of current insurance for the motorcycle.
- DOT-approved helmet and eye protection.
- Certificate of course completion from an approved motorcycle rider training program. if you are under the age of 18.
Next Steps After Passing Road Test:
Once you pass the road test, you can add the motorcycle endorsement to your current driver’s license by applying for a duplicate. You can also add the endorsement when you renew your license.
Motorcycle Education & Safety Training
Safety training is provided by the Minnesota Motorcycle Safety Center (MMSC), which offers riding training courses for new and advanced riders, including the Basic Rider Course (BRC).
The BRC course is based on the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) curriculum and is offered at 20+ state college and university campuses in Minnesota.
Motorcycle Requirements for BRC:
- MMSC provides training motorcycles, but riders can bring their own motorcycle to use during the course.
- Motorcycles must be street legal, licensed and pass a basic equipment inspection.
- Riders must have proof of insurance for the motorcycle.
Riders Must Bring the Following to BRC:
- DOT-approved helmet
- Eye protection
- Long sleeved shirt
- Long pants
- Full-fingered gloves
- Riding boots
- Rain gear
Training helps build essential control and defensive-riding skills, which is important for rider safety and required by law for younger riders.
Registration and Insurance Requirements
- All motorcycles must be registered, and registration must be renewed on an annual basis.
- New residents must register their motorcycle within 60 days of establishing residency. The motorcycle must be registered immediately if the registration is expired though.
- All motorcycles operated on public streets and highways must pay an annual registration tax of $10.
- Riders must carry proof of insurance on their motorcycle at all times.
Next Steps
By now, you should have a solid understanding of how to obtain a Minnesota motorcycle endorsement — from testing requirements to insurance and registration rules.
If you’re a new rider or a new resident shopping for motorcycle insurance, click here or call 833-70-RIDER to get a quote in minutes, and make sure you have the right coverage before hitting the road.
Disclaimer: This article has been provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is based on the most reliable information available as of 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 MN DPS requires motorcyclists to have current coverage that meets the state’s minimum requirements on all registered vehicles. Before riding in Minnesota, 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.
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