Straight answers to the most common questions about passing the DPS motorcycle knowledge exam.
The widely used practice figure is 20 multiple-choice questions, with 80% (16 of 20) needed to pass. Texas DPS does not publish an official count, and in practice most riders never take the written test at all — completing the required training course waives it.
The third-party consensus is 80% — 16 of 20 questions correct. Because the count is not officially published, aim to answer every question confidently rather than counting on a narrow margin.
Usually not. Texas law requires every license applicant to complete a TDLR-approved Motorcycle Operator Training Course first, and presenting that course certificate waives the Class M knowledge test. By statute the written test is required only for an applicant restricted to operating a moped (Texas Motorcycle Operator Training Manual p.3, 50).
Yes. You must hold a Class M driver license to operate a motorcycle on a public road. The same Class M requirement covers three-wheel motorcycles, motor-driven cycles, and mopeds (manual p.3).
It is the TDLR-approved Motorcycle Operator Training Course, offered by contracted sponsors in the Texas Motorcycle Operator Program at more than 200 sites statewide. The Entry Level Course teaches the mental and physical skills new riders need, and everyone must complete an approved course to be eligible for a motorcycle license (manual p.60).
Yes, for adults. An applicant 18 or older who has passed a TDLR-approved course and holds an unrestricted Class A, B, or C license may present the course completion certificate (MSB-8) and have the skills test waived. Minors 15 through 17 are not eligible for the skills-test waiver (manual p.3-4).
The course completion certificate is valid for licensing for two years from the date it is issued (manual p.3).
Minors 15 through 17 may apply after completing the course (and the classroom phase of driver education). A rider under 16 can be licensed only for a motorcycle of 250cc or less, shown by restriction code "I"; that limit may be removed once the rider turns 16 (manual p.4).
Helmets meeting Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 218 (FMVSS-218) are required for operators and passengers. A rider 21 or older is exempt only if they have completed a TDLR-approved motorcycle operator training course or are covered by qualifying medical insurance (manual p.3).
Texas law does not have a separate eye-protection requirement for motorcyclists. The manual still strongly recommends a face shield or goggles and warns that a windshield is not a substitute for either (manual p.5, 9).
Yes. Motorcycles manufactured after 1975 must be ridden with the headlight on. Keeping the headlight on also makes you about twice as likely to be noticed during the day (manual p.3, 27).
Only if the motorcycle is equipped with a permanent passenger seat, footrests, and handholds. The manual also advises that only experienced riders should carry passengers, because the added weight changes how the motorcycle handles (manual p.3, 38).
A rider with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or more is legally intoxicated. Under Texas's Zero Tolerance for Minors law, a rider under 21 may not operate a motorcycle with ANY detectable amount of alcohol (manual p.47).
Yes. Adults 18 through 24 who do not hold a current driver license of any class must also successfully complete an Adult Driver Education course (manual p.3).
A Class M license is still required. If you complete a motorcycle safety course taught on a three-wheel motorcycle, your license is restricted to operating three-wheel motorcycles only (manual p.3, 52).
The front brake is the more powerful brake and can supply at least 70% of your total stopping power. Always use both brakes together every time you slow or stop, squeezing the front lever firmly rather than grabbing it (manual p.15).
Keep at least a two-second following distance behind the vehicle ahead. Open it up to three seconds or more when the pavement is slippery, you cannot see past the vehicle ahead, or traffic is heavy (manual p.19).
The Texas Motorcycle Operator Training Manual (2020-2021) is published by the Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation (TDLR) and is free to read or download from tdlr.texas.gov. The knowledge-test questions are based on it.
Source: Test details reflect the consensus of major rider-education sources — confirm with the state agency before your visit. Majority third-party consensus is 20 questions / 80%. Texas is unusual: a TDLR-approved Motorcycle Operator Training Course is required of every applicant, and completing it waives the Class M knowledge (written) test. The written test is required by statute only for applicants restricted to operating a moped.