Montana Motorcycle Licensing
Motorcycle License, Training & Insurance
The content below is for informational purposes only and was last updated as of July 2026. For the most up-to-date information, please consult the Montana Department of Justice – Motor Vehicle Division and the Motorcycle Manual.
Operating a Motorcycle in Montana
You must have a motorcycle endorsement on a valid driver license to legally operate a motorcycle on a public street or highway in Montana.
Endorsement requirements include:
- Meet the state’s minimum age requirement;
- Possess a valid Montana driver license or obtain one; and
- Pay the required additional fee per year.
Required tests
You must pass the below tests in order to obtain your motorcycle endorsement:
- Written Test
- Designed to increase your knowledge of specific motorcycle-driving situations you may encounter
- Consists of questions geared toward motorcycle drivers specifically
- Driving Test
- Typically offered from April to November
- Weather dependent; will not be administered on wet roads
- Successful completion of a state-approved Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Basic Rider Course may waive this requirement if you present your MSF card.
Learner License/Permit
Once you pass the written test, you will be issued a learner license/permit. A learner license will allow you to operate your motorcycle while under the supervision of a licensed motorcyclist.
Your learner license is valid for one (1) year from the date you pass the written test. If your learner license expires before you pass the driving test, you will have to repay the fee and obtain a new learner license.
Motorcycle Safety
In an effort to prioritize motorcycle safety, the state of Montana supports the Montana Motorcycle Riders Safety (MMRS) training program. The state assists with educational campaigns, public outreach, and providing replacement training motorcycles to the program for riders’ use.
Montana Motorcycle Insurance Requirements
If you’re riding a motorcycle, you will have many of the same requirements regarding registration, licensing and insurance as automobile drivers have in Montana. For information about Montana insurance requirements, click here.
Next Steps
By now, you should have a solid understanding of how to obtain a Montana motorcycle endorsement — from endorsement requirements to motorcycle safety and insurance information.
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 Montana DOJ MVD requires motorcyclists to have current coverage that meets the state’s minimum requirements on all registered vehicles. Before riding in Montana, 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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