MOTOR CYCLE ENDORSEMENTS

POLICY:

To view Louisiana Statues: http://www.legis.state.la.us/

AUTHORITY
R.S 32:190-198
R.S. 32:407, 408(C)
R.S.32:408(C)(2)
R.S. 17:282(C)

DEFINITION
Motorcycles, motor driven cycles, and motorized bicycles shall not be given a separate class, as such, but their use shall be provided for by making an endorsement on one of the basic classes outlined in this Section. Such an endorsement shall be made only after the applicant has taken and successfully passed tests specifically designed for the operation of such vehicles.

To comply with this law, the operator of any motorcycle, motor driven cycle or motorized bicycle (moped), in excess of 5 horsepower, regardless of maximum speed, or size of motor, must have an "M" endorsement on one of the basic classes of operator's license to operate such vehicle on the streets, highways, or roadways in Louisiana. This endorsement is not required to operate motorcycles, motor driven cycles or motorized bicycles under 5 horsepower.

A motorized bicycle (moped) is a pedal bicycle which may be propelled by human power or helper motor or both.

REQUIREMENTS
All applicants must possess a valid Louisiana driver license or learner permit. Applicants must successfully complete the motorcycle road rules test with 80% score.

A motorcycle endorsement can be issued along with a learner's permit; however, if the individual is fifteen (15) or sixteen (16) years of age, they are restricted to driving within a distance of three miles from their residence, unless a parent, tutor, or other person having custody is temporarily staying or residing at another location, where the applicant would be restricted to within three miles of that location. (See Section I, Policy 1.0 and 13.0)

No operator's skill test shall be required for applicants who have successfully completed the "Motorcycle Safety Awareness and Operators Training Program" (amended by Act 351 of the 1987 Legislative Session) approved by the Department of Education. Applicants may voluntarily participate in the program if they meet the qualifications of the Department of Public Safety and Corrections to apply for a motorcycle operator's endorsement.

Applicants must provide the original certificate as proof of completion.

Applicants who have not completed one of the above listed driver safety courses will be required to pass a skills test.

Applicants will be required to furnish the motorcycle used in the skills test.

The motorcycle must have a current license plate, proof of current insurance and a current inspection sticker.

A motorcycle helmet is required for the skills test.

NOTE: If the motorcycle has received a rejection for a cycle endorsement only, the motorcycle can be used on the skills test.

Motorcycle Driving Test
A. A motorcyclist will operate his cycle while in compliance with the laws which have been set down specifically for the
operation of motorcycles. These laws are fully explained in the "Louisiana Motor Vehicle Law" book, and in the April,
1992, third edition of the "Louisiana Motorcycle Handbook".

B. Each office will have and use a pre-planned route or driving course. The test may consist of the applicant driving a
serpentine course, a "figure-eight" pattern or its equivalent, but shall consist of the examiner standing outside and
observing the basic maneuvers of safely operating a motorcycle, and may be administered either on the street or
highway or in a sufficiently large parking lot area. Each such route shall be approved by the District Supervisor.