Motorcycle License in Oregon

If there was ever a state to ride a motorcycle through, it'd be Oregon. From border to border you'll enjoy the freedom of the open road, lined with pines, wandering rivers, and mountain landscapes you won't find anywhere else.

When you're ready to get your OR motorcycle endorsement, this guide will take you through every step of the process outlined by the Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services Division (DMV).

New Residents to Oregon

If you just moved to Oregon and already have a motorcycle endorsement/license from another state, you can transfer by visiting your local DMV office and:

  • Surrendering your out-of-state motorcycle license.
  • Providing proof of your:
  • Paying the $162 motorcycle licensing fee.

If you'd like to learn more about transferring your out-of-state motorcycle endorsement/license to Oregon credentials, call your local DMV office for details.


Unsure if your vehicle counts as a motorcycle?

If you already possess any class of driver's license, you DO NOT need a motorcycle endorsement or permit for:

  • Autocycles.
  • Mopeds.
  • Electric-assisted bicycles.

For information about these vehicles and their requirements, jump over to our page that covers scooters, mopeds, and other vehicles in Oregon.

OR Motorcycle License Eligibility

To be eligible to receive an Oregon motorcycle endorsement, you must:

After completing each of the eligibility requirements above, you'll be on track to receiving your Oregon motorcycle endorsement.

To prepare yourself fully to ride, you can also opt to apply for a motorcycle instruction permit. This will give you the ability to practice riding before you fully apply for your endorsement.

You’re required to have a motorcycle endorsement or permit to drive a motorized bike that:

  • Can travel at least 30 MPH on level ground.
    AND/OR
  • Has an engine displacement of more than 50 CC.

*NOTE: Remember that in Oregon, you DON'T need a motorcycle endorsement in order to ride a moped, electric-assisted bike, or an autocycle, which has 3 wheels, a steering wheel, a non-straddled seat, and a manufacturer-installed 3-point safety harness or belt IF you already have any class of driver's license. Any other type motorcycle requires an endorsement.

OR Motorcycle Instruction Permit

Though it is not required before getting your motorcycle endorsement, you can opt to get an Oregon motorcycle instruction permit to get some supervised practice. You must be at least 16 years old to do so.

Visit your local Driver and Motor Vehicle Services Division office branch and:

  • Present your current Oregon driver license.
  • Provide proof* of your:
    • Full, legal name.
    • OR residency and legal U.S. presence.
  • Pass a:
  • Pay the $30 motorcycle permit fee.

Your OR motorcycle instruction permit is valid for 1 year. You can now get supervised practice riding your bike before applying for your endorsement!

Guarantee Your Success!

DID YOU KNOW: Drivers who utilize practice tests before their DMV exam are far more likely to pass the test on the first try! Take an online practice test before getting your motorcycle permit, and save yourself the hassle of multiple trips to the DMV.

OR Motorcycle Permit Restrictions

Before you get out on the road and ride, there are restrictions you'll need to keep in mind. As a motorcycle permit holder, you're prohibited from riding:

  • Without a supervisor at least 21 years old who holds a valid motorcycle endorsement. They must ride on a separate motorcycle while keeping a close eye on you.
  • During the night or when lighting is not ideal.
  • With passengers.
  • Without a DMV-approved motorcycle helmet.

Oregon Motorcycle Education

A TEAM OREGON motorcycle education course is required for all Oregon motorcycle endorsement applicants,UNLESS you’ll ONLY be riding a motorcycle with 3 wheels.

TEAM OREGON offers classes for all levels of experience, and if you're a beginner, the Basic Course will teach you valuable skills like:

  • Turning, shifting, and stopping.
  • Assessing risky paths for riding.
  • Communicating with other drivers.
  • Dealing with emergencies.

If you'd like to learn more about Oregon motorcycle education, or are ready to enroll in a course, check out the TEAM OREGON website.

How to Get an Oregon Motorcycle License

Once you've completed the required motorcycle education course, and you meet the licensing eligibility requirements, visit your local DMV office and present your:

  • Certificate of TEAM OREGON course completion. This is NOT REQUIRED if your bike has 3 wheels.
  • Current Oregon driver's license.
  • Proof of your:
    • Identity, legal name, and birth date.
    • Social Security number.
    • Oregon residency and legal presence.
  • Payment for the applicable OR motorcycle endorsement fee (see below for details).

You'll then receive your Oregon motorcycle endorsement! It will expire along with your standard OR driver's license.

OR Motorcycle Endorsement Fees

The fees associated with getting your Oregon motorcycle endorsement are as follows:

  • Motorcycle instruction permit: $30.
  • Motorcycle endorsement on existing Oregon driver license: $98.
  • New OR driver's license with motorcycle endorsement: $162.
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