Wisconsin Motorcycle Endorsement Guide

What Is a Motorcycle Endorsement?

Wisconsin does not use a motorcycle "endorsement" code. Instead, the motorcycle privilege is its own license class — the Class M license. Most Class M holders also hold a Class D (car and light truck) license, but if you only want to ride a motorcycle, a motorcycle-only license is available (WI Handbook p.5).

To earn the Class M you start with a Cycle Instruction Permit (CYCI), practice, and then pass the motorcycle-in-traffic skills test — or have it waived by an approved rider course. Testing or training on a three-wheel cycle restricts the Class M to three-wheel cycles only (WI Handbook p.6).

Endorsement vs. Motorcycle-Only License

How to Add the Endorsement — Steps

1. Be at least 16, study the Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook, and pass the motorcycle knowledge test (under 18 also needs parent sponsorship, completed driver education, and basic-rider-course enrollment).
2. Receive your Cycle Instruction Permit (CYCI), valid for six months, and practice riding under its rules.
3. Pass the motorcycle-in-traffic skills (road) test on a cycle in safe, legal condition — or complete an approved WisDOT Basic RiderCourse to waive it.
4. Bring your skills-test result or course-completion waiver form to a DMV Service Center and pay the fee.
5. Receive your Class M license; if you tested or trained on a three-wheel cycle it is restricted to three-wheel cycles only.

MSF Course Waiver

The motorcycle skills test is waived if you successfully complete an approved WisDOT rider education course. To use the waiver you must still pass the motorcycle knowledge test and be at least 16; bring your waiver form or course-completion card to the DMV when you apply (WI Handbook p.51).

The Basic RiderCourse (BRC) includes an e-course and/or about five hours of classroom plus 10 hours of riding; the Three-Wheel Basic RiderCourse adds a three-wheel restriction. An approved Basic RiderCourse taken outside Wisconsin may also be sufficient for the waiver. Completing a BRC or Advanced RiderCourse can additionally reduce up to three demerit points for motorcycle violations in the past 12 months (WI Handbook p.49-51).

Cost & Renewal

Wisconsin charges a fee for the Cycle Instruction Permit and again when the Class M license is issued; if you complete a basic rider course and choose not to get a CYCI first, the CYCI fee is not required when you apply for your Class M. Confirm the current fee amounts on wisconsindmv.gov.

The Class M is part of your regular driver license and renews together with it on the same schedule — there is no separate motorcycle renewal cycle. A new Wisconsin resident who holds a valid motorcycle license from another jurisdiction may be able to get a Class M without the knowledge or skills tests (WI Handbook p.6).

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