It takes skills and knowledge to ride a motorcycle safely. If you're new to motorcycle riding, the proper training can help you to develop the comfort and ability to enjoy riding while keeping safety in mind.

If you're interested in taking a motorcycle course, the Missouri Motorcycle Safety Program (MMSP) offers approved courses. The training you'll learn includes:

• Effective turning

• Braking maneuvers

• Protective apparel selection

• Obstacle avoidance

• Traffic strategies

• Maintenance

If you've completed your training and are ready to ride, the State of Missouri requires either a Class M motorcycle license or permit, or a driver's license with the M endorsement in order for you to operate a motorcycle or motortricycle on public roadways.

Top Missouri Motorcycle Instruction Permit

Applicants Younger than 16

You must be 15 1/2 years of age (15 years and 182 days) to apply for a motorcycle instruction permit. This permit will only be issued if you have successfully completed an approved motorcycle rider training course (MRTC). You must also pass the Class F and Class M written, vision and road sign tests, and have the written consent of your parent or legal guardian if you're a minor.

If you are younger than 16, the following restrictions apply:

• Cannot ride a motorcycle with an engine with a displacement of 250 cc or more

• Cannot carry passengers

• Must ride within 50 miles of your home

• May only drive during daylight hours

A motorcycle instruction permit costs $3.75 if you're younger than 16; $2.75 goes to the training course.

Applicants Ages 16 and Older

If you are 16 years of age, you can apply for a motorcycle instruction permit without taking the motorcycle rider training course. You'll still need to pass the vision screening, road sign test, and Class M written test in order to get a permit.

All Missouri motorcycle instruction permit holders have the following restrictions:

• No passengers

• Daylight driving only

The cost of the permit is $1. If you apply for a license or a permit at a fee license office, you will also pay a $2.50 handling fee.

If you don't already have a driver's license, your permit will be a Class F permit with a Class M endorsement.

Instruction permits are valid for six months.

Top Skills Testing and Licensing

Then, once you are ready, you can take the motorcycle knowledge and skills (road) tests. You may either take the test through the MSHP or through your rider training course. Knowledge test questions are based on information covered in the Motorcycle Operator Manual. The on-cycle skill test will either be conducted in an actual traffic environment or in a controlled, off-street area.

Top License Fees

• Three-year Class M motorcycle license: $10

• Six-year Class M motorcycle license: $20

• Handling fees may also be charged

Our content is updated based on input from users like you. Help make it better!