To ride a motorcycle on the scenic roads of Colorado, to join the summer Harley-Davidson frenzy, or to challenge your sport bike skills on the steep, winding mountain passes, you need to obtain a motorcycle "M" endorsement on your current basic license. No "motorcycle only" licenses are issued.

There are essentially a couple of ways to accomplish this task.

The first is most likely the more inexpensive, but may not give you the necessary skills to take your riding to the highest levels of safety. It simply involves taking the written test at a local driver license office and then completing an on-bike skills test either at the same office (if it is a full-service facility) or through an accredited third-party company.

The second involves signing up for Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) training course. These programs are also offered by third-party instructors teaching a state-created and sanctioned curriculum.

The Basic Rider Course is generally a 15-hour program that covers all facets of the motorcycle for the beginning rider. It includes both the written and the skills tests.

Upon completion of this course you can receive an "M" class endorsement. The fees for the course vary with each company and can top $200 in some cases. But that usually means the company provides bikes and equipment for training.

Top Age Requirements

You need to be at least 16 years old to apply for an endorsement, but it is not entirely that simple. If you are under 18, you need to need to maintain a motorcycle instruction permit for a minimum of 12 months before attempting the upgrade.

If you are between 15 and 16, obtaining a permit requires the completion of a Motorcycle Operators Safety Training (MOST) program, which is offered by numerous private companies that also offer testing. It also requires the direct supervision of a qualified MSF instructor at all time when riding a motorcycle.

The under-18 crowd also needs to have a parent or guardian complete an Affidavit of Liability and Guardianship in order to receive an endorsement.

Top The Written Test

The written exam is in a multiple-choice format and all of the material covered is gleaned from the Motorcycle Handbook.

Top The Operator Skills Test

If you are providing the bike for taking the test it must be registered and insured. The skills test is given on a simulated course and measures a series of handling abilities including: a sharp left turn, normal and quick stops, obstacle swerves, and cone weaves.

The motorcycle endorsement adds $2 to the basic driver license fees.

For more information contact the MSF through the Colorado Department of Transportation at (303) 757-9466.

See related information at Motorcycle Manual, Motorcycle Registration, and Applying for a New License on this site.

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