District of Columbia Motorcycle Licensing
Motorcycle License Endorsement, Training & Insurance
The content below is for informational purposes only and was last updated in April 2026. For the most up-to-date information, please consult the District of Columbia (DC) Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and the Motorcycle Manual.
What Qualifies as a Motorcycle in DC?
- Piston displacement of more than 50 cubic centimeters
- Capable of driving over 35 miles per hour (mph) on level ground
- More than 1.5 brake horsepower (S.A.E. rating)
- Wheels under 16 inches in diameter
- Manual transmission
Getting a DC Motorcycle License Endorsement
In DC, you must have a valid driver’s license with a motorcycle (M) endorsement to legally operate a motorcycle.
Steps to Obtain an M Endorsement
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Hold a valid DC driver’s license
- Pass the Motorcycle Knowledge Test.
- Complete a Motorcycle Demonstration Course and provide a certificate of completion from any U.S. jurisdiction.
Renewing the M Endorsement
In DC, your M endorsement transfers to your renewed or replaced driver’s license automatically. The automatic transfer of the M endorsement happens even if your old license was expired at the time of renewal and you had to take additional knowledge and/or skills tests to renew or replace it.
Insurance Requirements
- Property Damage Liability: $10,000
- Third Party Liability: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident
- Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident
- Uninsured Motorist Property Damage: $5,000 subject to $200 deductible
Motorcycle Safety
With motorcycle riding, it’s critical to have the right gear to give you a better chance of avoiding serious injury in the event of an accident. Before you hop on your bike, make sure you have:
- Helmet approved by the United States Department of Transportation (DOT)
- Face or eye protection
- Protective clothing
Next Steps
By now, you should have a solid understanding of how to obtain a DC motorcycle license — from endorsement requirements to rider safety and insurance 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 the District of Columbia Department of Motor Vehicles.
The DC DMV requires motorcyclists to have current coverage that meets the state’s minimum requirements on all registered vehicles. Before riding in the District of Columbia, 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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