FAQs

How do I get a Colorado motorcycle endorsement?

There are two ways to earn a Colorado motorcycle endorsement. The first is by passing the Colorado DMV motorcycle written exam, obtaining a motorcycle instruction permit, and successfully completing the DMV motorcycle riding skills test. The second—and the option many riders choose—is to complete a Colorado Motorcycle Operator Safety Training (MOST) course with an approved training provider like Shift Happens Motorcycle Rider Training. After successfully completing the course, you'll receive a license waiver card that allows you to skip the DMV riding skills test when adding your endorsement to your Colorado driver's license.

Do I have to take the DMV riding test?

Not necessarily.

If you complete a Colorado State-approved MOST motorcycle training course and pass the required riding skills evaluation, you can use your motorcycle license waiver card to skip the DMV riding test. You'll still need to visit a Colorado Driver License Office to have the motorcycle endorsement added to your license, but you won't need to complete the DMV riding skills exam.

What is the Colorado motorcycle license waiver?

A Colorado motorcycle license waiver is an official document issued after successfully completing an approved Motorcycle Operator Safety Training (MOST) course. The waiver allows you to bypass the Colorado DMV motorcycle riding skills test when adding your motorcycle endorsement. You'll present the original waiver card during your DMV appointment, along with any other required identification, to receive your updated driver's license with a motorcycle endorsement.

How long is the completion card valid?

A Colorado motorcycle license waiver card is valid for 180 days from the date it is issued. This gives you six months to schedule your DMV appointment and add your motorcycle endorsement to your Colorado driver's license. If the waiver expires before you visit the DMV, you'll need to complete another approved motorcycle training course to receive a new waiver card.

How old do I have to be?

To add a motorcycle endorsement, you must meet Colorado's licensing requirements and possess a valid Colorado driver's license. Riders under 18 have additional permit and supervision requirements, including holding a motorcycle instruction permit for 12 months before receiving the endorsement. Colorado has also adopted new requirements affecting applicants under 21 beginning January 1, 2027.

Can I use my own motorcycle?

Yes.

For the One-Day Motorcycle Endorsement Course and the Beginner Rider Course, you may bring your own street-legal motorcycle with current registration and insurance. If you don't have a motorcycle available or would prefer to use one of ours, Shift Happens also offers loaner motorcycles at no additional cost.

For the Beginner Rider Course, motorcycles are provided for every student, so no motorcycle is required.

What happens if I fail?

Most students successfully complete the course, but everyone learns at a different pace.

If you do not successfully complete the written knowledge test or riding skills evaluation, your instructor will explain your next steps. Depending on the situation, you may be eligible for additional practice and a retest in accordance with the school's retest policy. The goal is not simply to pass a test—it's to become a safe, confident rider.

What documents do I need?

For most motorcycle training courses, you'll need:

  • A valid driver's license

  • Your completed MSF eCourse certificate (completed within the required time period for your course)

  • Proper riding gear

  • If bringing your own motorcycle: proof of registration and insurance

After successfully completing your course, you'll need your original motorcycle license waiver card and the documents required by the Colorado DMV when adding your endorsement. Identification requirements vary depending on your situation, so it's always a good idea to review the DMV's current document requirements before your appointment.