Stephen Schultz | April 21, 2025 | Missouri Law
There is nothing quite like the feeling of riding a motorcycle down the highway, especially on a nice sunny day. Maybe the thought of this feeling has made you decide to go buy yourself a motorcycle. Before you strap on your motorcycle helmet and hit the road, you should know that motorcycle riders are required to have a motorcycle license.
A motorcycle license differs from a typical driver’s license, and motorcycle license requirements vary by state. Keep reading below to learn about the types of motorcycle licenses available in Missouri and how you can get one.
Types of Motorcycle Licenses in Missouri
Some states have several types of motorcycle licenses available. License requirements may vary depending on the size of the motorcycle’s engine, the driver’s age, and the maximum speed of the motorcycle. However, Missouri only has one type of motorcycle license that applies to all motorcycle riders.
A Class M license lets a rider operate any type of motorcycle on the state’s roadways regardless of engine size or speed. The Class M license also follows the same graduated license requirements as a standard driver’s license for riders between the ages of 16 and 18.
How Do I Get a Motorcycle License in Missouri?
If you have decided you want to get a motorcycle license, certain age and testing requirements must be met.
Age Requirements
You may apply for a motorcycle permit in Missouri as early as age 15 ½. However, if you are under 16, you will be subject to the following restrictions:
- Engine displacement of no more than 250cc
- Can travel no more than 50 miles from your home address
- No passengers
- Can only drive during daylight hours
At age 16, you may obtain a motorcycle permit, and some of the restrictions mentioned above are lifted. However, the “no passenger” rule continues until you obtain a full motorcycle license. Permit holders under 18 are also subject to the Missouri graduated license laws. Once you turn 18, you will be allowed to obtain a full Class M motorcycle license.
Testing Requirements
License applicants who are under 16 will be required to complete a motorcycle rider training course. All applicants must pass the Class F and Class M written, vision, and road sign tests. Before obtaining your full Class M license, you must also pass the motorcycle skills test. This includes both a knowledge test and an on-motorcycle skills test.
License Requirements For Mopeds and Scooters
Many people turn to mopeds and motor scooters for transportation, especially in larger cities like St. Louis. Some states require different variations of motorcycle licenses to operate these vehicles. However, Missouri generally only requires a standard driver’s license to operate a moped or scooter.
To qualify as a moped in Missouri, a vehicle usually must:
- Have two or three wheels
- Travel no more than 30 mph
- Have an automatic transmission
- Have a motor no larger than 50cc
If you plan to operate one of these vehicles on the road, you typically don’t need a motorcycle license – a regular driver’s license is all that is required.
Tips For Avoiding Motorcycle Accidents in St. Louis
Once you have obtained your motorcycle license, it is time to hit the road. Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents often leave riders with devastating injuries. There are some things you can do to help protect yourself and minimize the risk of a serious accident. Those include:
- Always wear a helmet when riding.
- Never drive a motorcycle without the proper license.
- Avoid riding in the blind spot of cars and other motor vehicles.
- Follow the posted speed limits.
- Be extra cautious when the roads are wet or slippery.
If you are involved in an accident, you could be entitled to compensation for your injuries. It is best to seek the help of an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer who can help you hold the responsible party accountable and recover the compensation you deserve.
Contact the St. Louis Personal Injury Lawyers at Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers
The pain, suffering, lost wages, and medical bills related to delayed pain can quickly take a toll. If your accident was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to financial compensation. If you’re experiencing delayed pain after an accident, schedule a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer to evaluate your case and protect your legal rights.
If you’ve been injured, please contact the attorneys at Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation, we proudly serve all throughout Missouri, including St. Louis County and Boone County and we have offices in St. Louis, Ladue, Columbia, Creve Coeur.
Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers – St. Louis Office
1430 Washington Ave Ste 225
St. Louis, MO 63103
(314) 444-4444
Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers – Ladue Office
9807 S 40 Dr
St. Louis, MO 63124
Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers – Columbia Office
28 N 8th St # 502
Columbia, MO 65201
Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers – Creve Coeur Office
999 Executive Pkwy Dr #205
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
