Special Licenses

Obtaining a Motorcycle License in Indiana

3 min read

Getting your motorcycle license in Indiana involves a combination of training, testing, and paperwork, depending on your age and experience level. The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) manages the process, and it’s designed to ensure riders understand safe driving practices before hitting the road.

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for a motorcycle endorsement in Indiana, you must:

Be at least 16 years and 90 days old
Hold a valid Indiana driver’s license
Complete an approved motorcycle safety course OR pass both a knowledge and skills exam

Riders under 18 must also meet the Supervised Driving Requirements in Indiana and hold a valid learner’s permit for at least 180 days.

Motorcycle Learner's Permit

Before applying for the full endorsement, you may opt for a motorcycle learner’s permit, valid for one year. Requirements include:

Being at least 16 years old
Passing a motorcycle knowledge exam
Providing proof of identification and lawful presence
Paying the permit fee

This permit allows you to practice riding, but you cannot carry passengers or ride at night. Riders must also wear a helmet at all times, regardless of age.

Training vs. Testing

Indiana offers two paths to licensing:

1. Enroll in an Approved Safety Course

The Indiana BMV recognizes Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Basic Rider Courses (BRC) and other BMV-approved programs. These typically include classroom and on-bike instruction, ending with a skills test. Completing the course waives the BMV’s skills and written tests.

2. Pass BMV Exams

If you choose not to take a safety course, you’ll need to:

Pass a written motorcycle knowledge test
Pass a motorcycle riding skills exam

You can prepare for these with resources like the Preparing for the Indiana Driver's Knowledge Test.

Adding the Endorsement to Your License

Once you’ve completed the necessary steps:

Visit a BMV branch with your documents
Provide your certificate of course completion (if applicable)
Pay the required endorsement fee
Have your photo taken for an updated license

If you already have a license, the motorcycle endorsement (denoted as “M”) will be added without changing your license expiration date.

Motorcycle License for Minors

If you're under 18, you must also:

Hold a valid Indiana learner’s permit
Complete a driver education program
Obtain a Probationary License

Motorcycle training can count toward required practice hours. Helmets are mandatory for all riders under 18.

Testing Locations and Scheduling

Exams can be scheduled online or by visiting a BMV location. Be sure to check the BMV Hours and Holiday Closures before planning your visit.

Real ID Compliance

If you’re updating your license with an “M” endorsement, you can also ensure it’s Real ID-compliant. Visit Indiana Real ID Requirements Explained for full documentation guidelines.

Additional Notes

If you fail the skills or written test, you must wait until the next business day to retest.
Helmets are required for riders under 18 or those with only a learner’s permit.
Your motorcycle must be registered and insured to be used for the skills test. See How to Register a Vehicle in Indiana.

For the most accurate and current requirements, always refer to the Indiana BMV Motorcycle Licensing Page or call your local BMV office.