Motorcycle Instruction Permit & Endorsement

Do you need a Real ID?

In May of 2025, to board an airplane, you will need a particular type of identification such as a passport or a Real ID-compliant driver license or ID card. Find out more about Real ID. To switch to a Real ID-compliant license or ID card, you need to make an appointment or visit a DMV office for standby service.

There are 3 types of privileges issued to motorcycle riders:

Motorcycle Instruction Permit;
Motorcycle Endorsement; or
Restricted (Three Wheel) Motorcycle Endorsement.

Who needs a Permit/Endorsement?

You need a motorcycle permit or endorsement if your “bike”:

Goes over 30 mph on level ground; or
Is over 50 cc.

For more information on motorcycles, mopeds, autocycles, off-road vehicles and their endorsement requirements, see the Motorcycle & Moped Manual.

Motorcycle Instruction Permit

This permit allows you to ride a motorcycle with certain restrictions.

To get a permit, you must:

Be 16 or older;
Have a valid Oregon Driver License;
Make an appointment or visit a DMV office for standby service;
Show proof of your residence address and identity;
Pass the motorcycle knowledge test. The fee for the knowledge test is $5 each time you take the test;
Pass a vision test; and
Pay the permit fee.

Restrictions:

Must be accompanied by, and under the supervision and visual observation of, a rider on a separate motorcycle who is at least 21 years of age and who has a valid motorcycle endorsement;
Ride during daylight hours only; and
No passengers.

For more information, see the Motorcycle & Moped Manual.

Motorcycle Endorsement

This endorsement allows you to ride a 2-wheel motorcycle.

To get an endorsement, you must:

Pass the rider education course from TEAM OREGON**;

Basic Rider Training (BRT) will waive both the DMV knowledge and skills tests;
Intermediate Rider Training (IRT) or online training courses, such as eRider, will only waive the skills tests, the DMV knowledge test is required;

Decide if you need a Real ID;
Make an appointment or visit a DMV office for standby service;
Bring your TEAM OREGON completion card (if applicable);
Show proof of your residence address and identity (if you want a Real ID you must bring additional documents);
Pass the motorcycle knowledge test (if required). The fee is $5 each time you take the test;
Pass a vision test;
Pay the fees that apply; and
Get your picture taken.

**Out of state? Call 503-945-5000

If you are temporarily living out of state, you may complete an approved Motorcycle Rider Education Course in that state. You must apply for a motorcycle endorsement within two years from when you complete the course, unless the course completion card expires sooner.

These courses are approved by DMV:

Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) motorcycle rider education course;
Idaho Skills Training Advantage for Riders (STAR);
California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP) Motorcyclist Training Course;
Total Control Riding Clinic;
Motorcycle Ohio Rider Enhancement (MORE); and
Puget Sound Safety - Motorcycle Education Program (PSS-MEP)

Restricted (Three Wheel) Motorcycle Endorsement

This endorsement allows you to ride a 3-wheel motorcycle.

To get your endorsement, you must:

Decide if you need a Real ID;
Make an appointment or visit a DMV office for standby service;
Show proof of your residence address and identity (if you want a Real ID you must bring additional documents);
Pass the motorcycle knowledge test. The fee is $5 each time you take the test;
Pass a vision test;
Pay the fees that apply; and
Get your picture taken.

Who needs a helmet?

Every rider and passenger must wear a DOT approved helmet. It’s the law.

Buckle Up, every seat, every time

Stay Alert for blind spots and motorcycles