What a motorcycle endorsement is, who needs one, and how to add it to your Delaware driver license.
In Delaware, motorcycle authority is a motorcycle endorsement (the 'M' endorsement) added to your regular Delaware driver license. You must already be a Delaware licensed driver before you can apply for the endorsement.
Once you satisfy all requirements, the DMV issues a new photo driver license showing your eligibility to operate a motorcycle. Renewing a Delaware driver license with a motorcycle endorsement costs $12.00 (for an eight-year license) in addition to your regular renewal fee.
| Endorsement | Motorcycle-Only License | |
|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | Drivers who already hold a Delaware license | Riders without a regular driver license |
| Added to | Your existing license | Issued as its own license |
| Knowledge test | Motorcycle knowledge test | Motorcycle knowledge test |
| Lets you drive a car | Yes — keeps your car privileges | No — motorcycle only |
Delaware lets a State-approved Motorcycle Rider Education Course replace the DMV tests. For applicants 18 and older, completing the course waives the knowledge and skills test along with the six-month learner's permit requirement.
Riders under 18 must complete the course — it includes a knowledge and skills test, and on successful completion you receive a Student Completion Card (SCC) that is valid for six months. You present the SCC at the DMV, pay the fee, and pass an eye test to receive the endorsement.
The motorcycle endorsement fee is $12.00 for an eight-year license. One six-month extension of the temporary learner's permit is available for $5.00. The annual Delaware motorcycle registration fee is $15.00.
Renewing a driver license with a motorcycle endorsement costs $12.00 (eight-year license) on top of the regular renewal fee. Delaware riders who complete the approved Basic Rider Course qualify for a 10% liability insurance premium reduction, and an Experienced or Advanced Rider Course can qualify a rider for a 15% reduction.
Source: Test details are confirmed on the official agency page. Both the 25-question count and the 80% passing score (20 correct) are confirmed on the official Delaware DMV page. The knowledge test contains questions from all sections of the Delaware Motorcycle Operator Manual, and applicants 18 and older also take an eye test and a road-sign test. Delaware uses the Sixteenth Edition of the MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual.