What a motorcycle endorsement is, who needs one, and how to add it to your Pennsylvania driver license.
Pennsylvania does not use a separate motorcycle "endorsement" code. Instead the motorcycle privilege is its own license class - Class M - combined with the class you already hold. A driver who adds motorcycles carries one license showing the motorcycle (M) class.
If you already drive a car, you add the Class M to your existing license. Either way you must first pass the motorcycle knowledge test, get a Class M learner's permit, and then pass the on-cycle skill test (or an approved rider course).
| Endorsement | Motorcycle-Only License | |
|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | Drivers who already hold a Pennsylvania 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 |
Pennsylvania's free Motorcycle Safety Program Basic Rider Course is a 15-hour course that supplies a motorcycle and a helmet. A learner's-permit holder who successfully completes it is issued a motorcycle license - the course waives the PennDOT on-cycle skill test, though you still must pass the written knowledge test.
Other courses are offered too: the one-day Basic Rider Course 2 (own bike) and the 12-hour 3-Wheel Basic Rider Course (which leads to a license with a '9' restriction). Courses run April through October; see www.pamsp.com.
The Class M learner's permit fee is $12 and the permit is valid for one year. The Basic Rider Course is free to Pennsylvania residents who hold a Class M license or permit.
The motorcycle (Class M) class renews together with the rest of your driver's license - there is no separate motorcycle renewal cycle. Call PennDOT at 717-412-5300 to have an '8' or '9' restriction removed after testing on a larger or two-wheeled motorcycle.
Source: Some test details are confirmed by the state agency; the rest reflect the consensus of major rider-education sources. 20 questions confirmed on the official PennDOT page; 16 of 20 (80%) to pass per all third-party sources. The motorcycle privilege is a Class M license, and all permit holders must wear a helmet and eye protection regardless of age.