Motorcycle License in Louisiana

Introduction

In Louisiana, you are required to add a motorcycle endorsement onto your Louisiana Driver's License before you can operate your motorcycle.

New to Louisiana?

If you have just moved to Louisiana and are looking to ride your motorcycle, you will need to transfer your license or endorsement within 30 days of establishing residency. You will also need to transfer your motorcycle registration within 30 days of moving to the state. To transfer your license, visit your local OMV office and:

  • Present identification:
    • Valid driver's license OR official driving record.
    • Social Security card.
    • Proof of insurance (if you currently own a vehicle).
  • Pass a vision exam.
  • Be accompanied by a parent or guardian with photo ID (if 17 years old or younger).

If your out-of-state license is current and valid, you will not be asked to take any exams. The Office of Motor Vehicles will issue you an equivalent LA license to the out-of-state license you'll surrender.

Military and Student Considerations

If you are a member of the military or the dependent of a military member who is stationed in Louisiana, you do not need to obtain a LA driver's or motorcycle license.

On the same note, if you are a full-time student but your permanent residence is out of state (or country), you are not required to obtain a LA license, provided you maintain your full-time student status and your valid out-of-state license.

Louisiana Motorcycle Endorsement

Louisiana requires that you add a motorcycle endorsement onto a basic license to in order to operate a motorcycle in the state. If you need information on how to get a basic license, please visit our page on obtaining a Louisiana driver's license.

To get a Louisiana motorcycle endorsement, go to your local OMV office and:

  • Present a completed Application for License or Identification Card.
  • Provide primary and secondary proofs of identification. The LA OMV provides a full list of acceptable identification.
    • Note: If you have a LA photo ID or driver's license, no additional identification is required.
  • Be accompanied by a parent or guardian with photo ID (if 17 years old or younger).
  • Pay the $12 endorsement fee.
  • Pass a motorcycle knowledge exam. (To prepare yourself for the motorcycle knowledge exam, you can take an online practice test.)
  • Pass an on-cycle skills test.

For the on-cycle skills test, you'll need to provide: ­­­­

  • Your own motorcycle.
  • A helmet (must be worn during the exam).
  • Eye protection (goggles, face shield, or safety glasses) unless your motorcycle has a windshield.

NOTE: You can waive the on-cycle skills exam if you successfully complete a state-approved motorcycle safety course from the Louisiana DPS Motorcycle Safety, Awareness, and Operator Training Program and provide proof of completion when you apply for your endorsement. (See “Motorcycle Safety Course" below for more information.) Your first endorsement will be valid for 6 years.

Louisiana Motorcycle Safety Courses

The Louisiana Motorcycle Safety, Awareness, and Operator Training Program offers motorcycle safety courses to help you bolster both your knowledge of the rules of the road and your on-cycle skills.

The Louisiana OMV also allows you to waive your on-cycle skills test if you successfully complete a motorcycle safety course. You will need to present proof of course completion when you apply for your endorsement.

The program offers basic, intermediate, and advanced courses. Certain prerequisites may be required. You can find more detailed class information below.

Basic Rider Course

The Basic Rider course is offered to students with little experience operating a motorcycle and covers both riding skills and mental preparation.

This class takes 15 1/2 hours and involves classroom instruction and practical training on the road in a controlled environment off the street.

You may use your own motorcycle or use a provided motorcycle. If you elect to have a motorcycle provided, the course will cost more. NOTE: If you choose to use your own motorcycle, its engine displacement must not exceed 550 cc.

Intermediate Rider Course

The Intermediate Rider course is offered to motorcyclists with experience riding who want to improve their mental and practical skills. The course is 5 hours and is all practical training.

The course will review:

  • Cornering.
  • Braking.
  • Defensive riding and risk management strategies.

In order to enroll in this course, you must have either graduated from the Basic Rider Course OR have a valid LA motorcycle endorsement. You have the option to use your own motorcycle or use a provided motorcycle (at an additional cost).

Advanced Rider Course

The Advanced course is 5 hours and includes classroom and on-cycle instruction. It is available for motorcycle riders who have significant experience riding a motorcycle and are looking to fine tune the following skills:

  • Managing risk.
  • Assessing your riding skills.
  • Braking.
  • Cornering.
  • Swerving.
  • On-cycle behavior.

Enrolling in a Course

If any of the above courses interests you, please see the program's course schedule. Once you pick out a course, you can fill out the course application. If you are under 18 years old, you will need to have signed consent from a parent or legal guardian on the application.

For more information, please call 225-658-7522.

NOTE: Once you've been assigned to a course, the fees are non-refundable. The only exception is if the Louisiana Department of Public Safety cancelled the course.

LA Motorcycle Endorsement Renewal

Louisiana does not differentiate between renewing a driver's license and a motorcycle endorsement. For information on renewing your license, please see our Louisiana driver's license renewal page.

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