Motorcycle Endorsement
Riding a motorcycle is an experience like no other! Feeling the powerful wind and your adrenaline pumping through your veins as your hand grips the throttle make you feel vibrant and alive! Undoubtedly, there are countless reasons to hit the open road on a motorcycle, and if you’re ready to discover and experience New Mexico on one, then getting your Motorcycle License or Endorsement on your existing Driver’s License should be a priority. In & Out MVD can help you with this process and give you that feeling of freedom that comes when riding a motorcycle!
In order to operate a motorcycle on the road in New Mexico, a driver must have a valid Motorcycle License or an existing license with a motorcycle endorsement. (W, Y or Z) These are the endorsement types and what they authorize:
Moped exception:
A moped is a two-wheeled or three-wheeled vehicle with an automatic transmission and a motor having a piston displacement of less than 50 cubic centimeters, which is capable of propelling the vehicle at a maximum speed of not more than 30 miles per hour on level ground at sea level. Anyone with a valid driver’s license or permit of any class may operate a moped and a motorcycle endorsement is not required.
Motorcycle License and endorsement at age 13:
A person 13 years of age or older who satisfactorily completes the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Basic Rider Course offered by the New Mexico Motorcycle Safety Program may be issued a motorcycle (M) license with a Y or Z endorsement. The applicant’s certificate of completion of the MSF Basic Rider Course is sufficient to waive the road test requirement only, assuming the endorsement requested is consistent with the motorcycle on which the applicant qualified. Successful completion of the written motorcycle knowledge test is required. An initial licensee (A first-time license holder whose license is issued under the age of 18) may not carry any other passenger while driving a motorcycle.
Motorcycle license or endorsement at age 15:
A person 15 years of age or older who satisfactorily completes the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Basic Rider Course offered by the New Mexico Motorcycle Safety Program may be issued a motorcycle (M) license with a W, Y or Z endorsement, or may have a W, Y or Z endorsement added to his regular (D) Provisional or Driver’s License. The applicant’s certificate of completion of the MSF Basic Rider Course is sufficient to waive the road test requirement only, assuming the endorsement requested is consistent with the motorcycle on which the applicant qualified. Successful completion of the written motorcycle knowledge test is required unless the customer holds a current Class D Permit, Provisional License, or regular Driver’s License.
Motorcycle drivers age 18 and over:
Motorcycle operators who are age 18 and above are not required to take the MSF Basic Rider Course, and are not required to wear a helmet when operating a motorcycle. When adding a (W, Y or Z) motorcycle endorsement they are, however, required to take a road test on a motorcycle of appropriate size for the endorsement sought, or satisfactorily complete the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Basic Rider Course. Successful completion of the written motorcycle knowledge test is required unless the customer holds a current Class D Permit, Provisional License, or regular Driver’s License.
Once you have completed the applicable requirements listed above, bring all proof of completion with you along with the following:
- Birth Certificate (For proof of identity)
- Social Security Card
- Two proofs of New Mexico residency
- Parent/Guardian must be present to sign (If under the age of 18)
- Glasses/Contacts (If needed for the required vision test)
Important Notes
- All riders and passengers must wear a safety helmet that meets federal motor vehicle safety standards. (Not required if you’re 18 years of age or older but recommended)
- An initial licensee (A first-time license holder whose license is issued under the age of 18) may not carry any other passenger while driving a motorcycle.
- You may take the Motorcycle Written Test at In & Out MVD locations if needed.
- Visit the New Mexico Motorcycle Safety Program website for more information on classes, cost and location.
Call or visit us today!
Ready to experience New Mexico’s great outdoors on your motorcycle? Call or visit us and get your Motorcycle License today! We understand some requirements may be confusing but don’t worry, In & Out MVD is always just one call away to promptly answer any questions you may have regarding your new Motorcycle License. We are committed to giving you the best MVD customer service experience in New Mexico and would love the opportunity to serve YOU! Call or visit us today!
