What to do, what to bring, and what to expect at the ITD office — start to finish.
An Idaho motorcycle instruction permit lets you practice riding on public roads while you prepare for the 'M' endorsement. You must first pass the written motorcycle knowledge test, and the permit is then valid for 180 days.
The motorcycle endorsement is added to your existing Idaho driver's license (Class A, B, C or D). Anyone under 21 must also complete an approved motorcycle rider training course before applying for the endorsement. Confirm current steps and fees with your county driver's license office before you go.
A motorcycle instruction permit is available to anyone who holds a valid Idaho driver's license (Class A, B, C or D). The motorcycle 'M' endorsement is added to that license.
Study the Idaho Motorcycle Rider's Handbook (July 2025), published by the Idaho Transportation Department. The knowledge test questions are based on the information and concepts in this handbook.
Take the motorcycle knowledge test at any county driver's license office. The fee is $5.00, paid to the county. Everyone must pass this test before applying for an instruction permit. Failing requires a 3-day wait before retesting.
Apply for the motorcycle instruction permit ($15.00). It is valid for 180 days and may be renewed once without retaking the knowledge test, if the previous test was taken within the past 12 months.
While riding on a permit you must observe three restrictions: daylight riding only, no freeway riding, and no passengers. Build your skills in low-traffic areas first.
Pass the on-cycle skills test, given by a third-party Skills Test Examiner in an off-street area ($25.00, paid to the examiner). An approved motorcycle rider training course waives the skills test if you obtain the endorsement within 25 months. If you take the skills test while the permit is valid, the skills-test fee is waived when you add the 'M' endorsement. Riders under 21 must complete an approved rider training course.
Check the official ITD page for current fees and accepted forms of payment.
Source: Test details reflect the consensus of major rider-education sources — confirm with the state agency before your visit. Idaho's Motorcycle Rider's Handbook does not publish a question count or passing score; it includes only a 10-question practice test. The 25-question, 84%-to-pass figure shown here is a third-party practice format.