Michigan Motorcycle Endorsement

Do You Need a Motorcycle License in Michigan?

The State of Michigan does not require a separate license to operate a motorcycle, but an endorsement on your current license is required. This applies to operating a two or three wheeled motorcycle that can exceed 30 miles per hour on public streets and highways.

The minimum age to legally operate a motorcycle is 16 years old in Michigan. There is a two wheeled endorsement and a three wheeled endorsement. The 3 wheeled endorsement does not allow you to operate a two-wheeled motorcycle.

If the motorcycle you are riding has what is referred to as a sports seat and includes safety restraints, then it is actually considered an auto-cycle instead of a motorcycle and would not require an endorsement. If the motorcycle you are riding can’t exceed 30 miles per hour and the engine displacement is less that 100cc, it’s considered a moped. You would not need a motorcycle endorsement for a moped either.

Do I Need a Valid Michigan Driver’s License?

Yes, you need a valid driver’s license along with either a full motorcycle endorsement or a temporary motorcycle permit in order to operate a motorcycle legally in the State of Michigan.

How Do I Obtain a Michigan Motorcycle Endorsement?

You can add a motorcycle license endorsement to your license in a couple of different ways. You can add a motorcycle endorsement online at https://www.michigan.gov/sos, at any Secretary of State self-service station, or you can complete an office visit with the Secretary of State. Adding a motorcycle endorsement via mail is not currently an option. To add a motorcycle license online, you must fulfill the following requirements:

How To Get a Motorcycle Temporary Instruction Permit

The easiest way to get a Michigan motorcycle license is by completing what is called a temporary instruction permit. Essentially, it is a tool to transition to a full motorcycle endorsement. It allows new riders the opportunity to practice prior to taking the motorcycle license test while under constant supervision of a licensed motorcycle operator with experience. Here are the requirements to obtain a temporary instruction permit :

The temporary instruction permit is only good for 180 days. If you have only the permit and not a full endorsement, you cannot ride your bike at night or carry any passengers. You must be under constant visual supervision of someone who has the full endorsement and is at least 18 years old.

You can only legally have two motorcycle temporary instruction permits in a period of 10 years. If your 2nd temporary motorcycle permit has expired or failed 2 actual endorsement tests, you are required to pass a motorcycle safety course to operate legally.

Do You Have To Take a Motorcycle Safety Course in Michigan?

There are 2 different instances where a motorcycle safety course is required. The first instance is if you are under the age of 18. The other instance is if you have failed the motorcycle skills test twice.

Is Motorcycle Insurance Required in Michigan?

Motorcycle insurance is indeed required in Michigan. Riders are required to have what is called liability coverage which will cover the motorcyclist in the instance they cause an accident that results in an injury or death. If you choose to ride without a helmet, you are also required to have first party insurance.

Michigan motorcycle law states that “An owner or registrant of a motorcycle shall provide security against loss resulting from liability imposed by law for property damage, bodily injury, or death suffered by a person arising out of the ownership, maintenance, or use of that motorcycle.”

Tips To Avoid Motorcycle Accidents

Now that you have your Cy or motorcycle endorsement, it’s still important to do everything you can to keep yourself and the other drivers on the road safe. Here a few tips to avoid motorcycle accidents in Michigan:

Obey All The Traffic Laws – A majority of motorcyclists don’t take extra risks, but it’s still important to avoid speeding, distracted driving, running red lights, running stop signs, or engaging in other unnecessary reckless behavior.

Avoid Riding in Inclement Weather – Bad weather is dangerous for all vehicle on the road, but especially for motorcycles. Rain, Snow, Ice, and Wind can all create dangerous situations for a rider. The roads can be slippery and most importantly visibility will be impaired. The greatly increases the likelihood of an accident occurring.

Practice Defensive Driving – As you know, most accidents involving motorcyclists are because of other drivers. Do not assume that other vehicles on the road can see you or will give you the right of way. It best to stay alert and be prepared to make a defense driving maneuver.

Complete a Motorcycle Safety Training Course – Most riders find this a nuisance, but a simple training course or Michigan rider education program can go a long way to gain some experience and the basics of riding safely. Drivers that are under the age of 21 are required to take a similar course but it’s a good idea for everyone regardless of your age.

Make Yourself as Visible as Possible – In a large percentage of motorcycle accidents, many drivers claim that they never even saw the motorcyclist. You should always wear bright colors and use your headlights at all times.

Do Not Engage in Lane Splitting – This is one of the most single dangerous actions you can take while riding a motorcycle and one of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents. Just avoid weaving in and out of traffic altogether as well as unsafe lane changes.

Contact an Expert Motorcycle Accident Attorney If You’ve Been Injured

If you have been injured in a motorcycle crash in Michigan, you might be entitled to financial compensation to help you pay for medical bills and your recovery. Find out what options you have with a free consultation with a motorcycle accident attorney at The Clark Law Office today. We charge no fees unless you win your case. Call 517-347-6900 today!