What a motorcycle endorsement is, who needs one, and how to add it to your Michigan driver license.
Michigan shows the motorcycle privilege as a 'CY' endorsement added to your operator's or chauffeur's license, not as a separate license class. You must procure it before operating a motorcycle on a public street or highway (MCL 257.312a).
A separate three-wheel motorcycle endorsement carries restriction code 20 and is restricted to three-wheeled motorcycles — it does not allow you to operate a two-wheeled motorcycle.
| Endorsement | Motorcycle-Only License | |
|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | Drivers who already hold a Michigan 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 |
Completing a motorcycle rider education course approved by the department waives BOTH the written knowledge test and the rider skills test (MCL 257.309(10)) — a stronger waiver than the skills-only waiver many states offer.
Michigan's program (MI-REP) uses Motorcycle Safety Foundation standards and offers the Basic Rider Course (BRC), a 3-Wheel Basic Rider Course, and advanced courses. Some insurers offer a premium discount to riders who complete a course.
You pay a motorcycle endorsement fee when the CY endorsement is added to your license, plus a separate fee for the temporary instruction permit on the test path. Confirm current amounts at Michigan.gov/SOS.
The CY endorsement renews together with the rest of your driver's license — there is no separate motorcycle renewal cycle. Your motorcycle itself must be registered with the Secretary of State, and you can choose a one- or two-year registration when renewing online.
Source: Test details reflect the consensus of major rider-education sources — confirm with the state agency before your visit. The Michigan Motorcycle Operator Manual (SOS-116, Rev. May 2024) does not publish a question count or passing score. 20 questions / 16 to pass (80%) is the strong multi-site practice consensus and was confirmed by the site owner for the displayed format.