What class your motorcycle license is depends on the bike's engine size and your age

Motorcycle licenses are sorted into classes, and which class you hold determines what you're legally allowed to ride. The class system exists because larger, more powerful bikes require different skills and pose different risks than smaller ones. Your state assigns you a class based on the bike you test on and sometimes your age — you can't just choose the class you want.

The three main classes are Class M (or A) for full-size motorcycles with no engine limit, Class M1 (or A2) for bikes up to 35 kilowatts (about 47 horsepower), and Class M3 (or AM) for smaller bikes, mopeds, and scooters under 50 cubic centimeters. Some states use different names — California calls them M, M1, and M2 — but the engine sizes are the same. A few states have additional classes for three-wheelers or specific vehicle types.

Key Takeaways

  • Class M or A licenses have no engine size limit and let you ride any motorcycle; Class M1 or A2 caps you at 35 kilowatts; Class M3 or AM covers mopeds and small scooters under 50cc.
  • You get the class that matches the bike you pass your test on, so testing on a 125cc scooter gives you a different class than testing on a 500cc motorcycle.
  • Age restrictions explore in many states — riders under 16 or 18 may only be issued the smallest class, regardless of the bike they test on.
  • You can upgrade to a higher class by taking the test again on a larger bike, but you cannot downgrade your license.
  • Your class is printed on your license card and checked during traffic stops or insurance claims.

Class M or A: Full-Size Motorcycles with No Engine Limit

A Class M or Class A license (the name varies by state) lets you ride any motorcycle, regardless of engine size or horsepower. This is the unrestricted class. You get it by passing your written test and riding skills test on a motorcycle that is not restricted — typically anything over 35 kilowatts or over a certain engine size threshold your state sets.

Most riders aim for this class because it removes the ceiling on what they can own. You can ride a 250cc beginner bike today and upgrade to a 1200cc cruiser or 1000cc sport bike later without needing a new license. If you are 18 or older in your state, you can test directly for Class M and skip the smaller classes entirely.

Class M1 or A2: Restricted to 35 Kilowatts (About 47 Horsepower)

Class M1 or A2 is a middle tier that caps engine power at 35 kilowatts. This class exists in most U.S. states and is common in Europe and other countries. You get it by passing your test on a bike that falls within this power range — typically a 300cc to 500cc motorcycle, depending on the model.

Riders often use this class as a stepping stone. You can hold an M1 license for a year or two while you build skills, then test for Class M on a larger bike. Some states let you upgrade without retesting if you straightforward ride a larger bike for a set period. Check your state's rules on upgrading, because the process varies.

Class M3 or AM: Mopeds, Scooters, and Small Bikes Under 50cc

Class M3 or AM covers the smallest motorized two-wheelers: mopeds, scooters, and small motorcycles under 50 cubic centimeters. In some states, this class also has a speed limit — often capped at 30 or 40 miles per hour. You get this class by testing on a bike in this size range.

This class is common for young riders or people who want to ride short distances in urban areas. The test is shorter and the skills bar is lower than for larger bikes. If you later want to ride a bigger motorcycle, you will need to test again for a higher class — your M3 does not automatically upgrade.

How Your Age Affects Which Class You Can Get

Many states restrict younger riders to smaller classes, even if they could pass the test on a larger bike. Age limits vary widely: some states let 14-year-olds ride 50cc mopeds, while others require you to be 16 or 18 for any motorcycle license. A few states have no age minimum for Class M3 but require you to be 16 or 18 for Class M1 or M.

If you are under the age threshold for a higher class, you will be issued the largest class your age allows. Once you reach the required age, you can test for the next class up. Your state's DMV website or motorcycle handbook lists the exact age requirements — they are not the same everywhere.

How to Get a Higher Class or Switch Classes

You upgrade by taking the riding skills test again on a bike in the higher class. You do not need to retake the written test in most states — only the practical riding exam. Schedule a test appointment at your local DMV or testing center, bring a bike that qualifies for the class you want, and pass the same skills course you took the first time.

Some states let you upgrade without a new test if you hold your current license for a set period — often one or two years — and meet other conditions. Read your state's motorcycle handbook or call your DMV to learn the exact rules. You cannot downgrade your license; if you hold Class M, you stay at Class M even if you only ride small bikes.

What Happens If You Ride a Bike You Are Not Licensed For

Riding a motorcycle outside your license class is illegal and treated like driving without a license. If you are stopped, you face a citation, fines, and possible license suspension. Your insurance may also deny a claim if you were riding an unlicensed class at the time of an accident.

The rule is straightforward: your license class must match or exceed the bike you are riding. If you own a 600cc motorcycle but only hold a Class M1 license, you cannot legally ride it until you test for Class M. Renting a bike for a weekend trip also requires that your license class covers it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I test for a motorcycle license on a borrowed bike?

Yes. The bike must be registered and insured, and it must fall into the class you are testing for. Many testing centers have bikes available to rent for the exam if you do not own one. Call ahead to confirm what bikes they have and whether there is a rental fee.

Do I need a separate license for a three-wheeler or trike?

It depends on your state. Some states treat three-wheelers as motorcycles and require a Class M license. Others have a separate class or treat them as cars. Check your state's DMV website or handbook — the rules vary significantly.

If I move to a different state, do I need to get a new motorcycle license?

Most states honor out-of-state motorcycle licenses without requiring you to test again, as long as your license is valid. However, some states may require you to pass a written test or get a state-specific endorsement. Contact your new state's DMV before you move to confirm their rules.

What is the difference between a motorcycle license and a motorcycle endorsement?

A motorcycle license is a standalone license for riding motorcycles only. A motorcycle endorsement is an add-on to a regular car driver's license that lets you ride motorcycles in addition to driving cars. Both require passing a written and skills test, but the endorsement keeps your car driving privileges on the same card.

Can I ride a motorcycle with just a regular driver's license?

No. A standard car driver's license does not cover motorcycles in any state. You must have a motorcycle license or endorsement, and it must be the correct class for the bike you are riding. Riding without one is illegal even if you are an experienced rider.