FREE Practice test for CO MOTO driver's licence - Colorado exam simulation
All about permit practice tests and MOTO driver's licence in Colorado
To get a motorcycle license in Colorado, the process is pretty straightforward but does require some specific steps. Whether you're completely new to riding or already have experience, here’s a simple breakdown to guide you through getting your motorcycle endorsement in Colorado.
1. Basic Requirements
- Age: You need to be at least 16 years old to apply for a motorcycle endorsement in Colorado. If you're under 18, you’ll need to complete some additional steps, like obtaining parental consent and completing a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course.
- You must already hold a valid Colorado driver’s license. Colorado doesn’t issue standalone motorcycle licenses; instead, you get a motorcycle endorsement added to your existing license.
2. Motorcycle Endorsement Options
There are two main routes to getting your motorcycle endorsement in Colorado:
Option 1: Pass a Motorcycle Safety Course (Recommended)
Taking and passing an approved Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course is the easiest and most popular way to get your endorsement. Here’s how this works:
- Enroll in a state-approved Basic Rider Course (BRC). These courses are designed to teach you essential riding skills and safety practices. Many new riders prefer this route because it combines education with hands-on riding experience.
- Pass the written and riding tests during the course. Once you pass, the school will issue you a waiver for both the written and riding tests at the DMV.
- Take your waiver and visit the DMV. You’ll only need to complete the paperwork, pay the fees, and the endorsement will be added to your license without having to do further testing.
Option 2: Test at the DMV
If you prefer to skip the motorcycle safety course and go straight to testing, you can follow this path:
- Study the Colorado Motorcycle Operator’s Handbook to prepare for the written test. This manual covers everything you’ll need to know for riding safely and legally in Colorado.
- Visit your local DMV and take the written motorcycle knowledge test. If you pass, you’ll get a motorcycle instruction permit, which allows you to practice riding under certain conditions (you can’t ride at night or carry passengers).
- Once you’ve practiced and feel confident in your skills, schedule a motorcycle riding skills test at the DMV or with a third-party tester. You’ll need to demonstrate your ability to control the motorcycle, make safe turns, stops, and more.
- After passing both the written and riding tests, return to the DMV to have the motorcycle endorsement added to your driver’s license.
3. Motorcycle Instruction Permit (If Needed)
If you're going the DMV route and not taking the safety course, the instruction permit is an important step. You must hold this permit for at least 12 months if you're under 18. For adults, it's not required to hold the permit for a specific period, but it does give you the chance to practice legally before taking the skills test.
4. Endorsement Classes: M and 3
Colorado offers two types of motorcycle endorsements:
- M Endorsement: This is for two-wheeled motorcycles.
- 3-Wheel Endorsement: This is specifically for three-wheeled motorcycles (trikes). If you take a three-wheeled motorcycle course or test on a trike, you’ll only be able to operate three-wheelers.
5. Fees
The fees for adding a motorcycle endorsement in Colorado are relatively low. Typically, you’ll need to pay for the:
- Written and skills tests (if taking them at the DMV or third-party tester).
- Endorsement fee at the DMV (usually a small additional fee to your driver’s license cost).
- If you opt for the MSF course, the cost of the course varies, but it usually ranges from $200-$300.
Particularities for Colorado
- Weather and altitude: Colorado’s varied terrain, high altitude, and unpredictable weather make it important for new riders to get plenty of practice, especially in mountain areas where conditions can change rapidly.
- Under 18: If you're under 18, you must have parental consent to apply for the motorcycle endorsement, and you’re also required to complete a state-approved motorcycle safety course before you can take the skills test.
- Helmet laws: Colorado doesn't have a universal helmet law for riders over 18. However, if you're under 18, you must wear a helmet while riding.
Final Steps
After completing the required tests or safety course and paying the fees, the DMV will add the motorcycle endorsement to your Colorado driver’s license. Once that’s done, you’re officially ready to hit the road on two wheels!
Remember, even though Colorado has some relaxed helmet laws for adults, it's always a good idea to wear one for your safety, no matter your age.