To operate a motorcycle on public roads in Texas, the motorcycle must be registered with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. Operating a motorcycle also requires that you have the appropriate motorcycle license. But can you register a motorcycle in Texas without having a motorcycle license?
Can You Register a Motorcycle Without a License?
In Texas, you are technically allowed to register a motorcycle without having a motorcycle license. But registration of a motorcycle requires that you first obtain insurance coverage for the bike.
As a practical matter, most insurance companies will not issue you a motorcycle insurance policy in Texas unless you are properly licensed to operate a motorcycle. Therefore, registering a motorcycle without a license in Texas may prove difficult, if not impossible.
How to Get Licensed to Operate a Motorcycle in Texas
To obtain a Class M license to operate a motorcycle in Texas, you will need to file an application and present evidence of citizenship or lawful residency in the U.S., Texas residency, and your identity.
You will also need to submit a certificate of completion of a motorcycle safety course within the past 24 months unless you transfer a motorcycle license from another state. You must also pass a vision test and a written knowledge test, although the knowledge test may be waived if you have completed a motorcycle safety course.
A person may apply for a motorcycle learner’s license, which allows them to practice riding a motorcycle when supervised by a licensed motorcycle rider aged 21 or older.
When applying for the full Class M license, an applicant must also pass a motorcycle drive test, unless age 18 or older with another valid, unrestricted Texas license or transferring a license from another state or Canadian province.
Minors wishing to apply for a motorcycle license must be at least 15 years old and are limited to operating a motorcycle with an engine no larger than 250cc until their 16th birthday. Applicants must also have completed at least 32 hours of driver education and must pass a mandatory skills exam.
What Do I Need to Register My Motorcycle in Texas?
In addition to the completed application for Texas title and/or registration, you must provide additional documentation, including:
- Documentation indicating that you own the motorcycle, such as a bill of sale or an out-of-state title
- A completed vehicle inspection report
- Proof of Texas motorcycle insurance coverage
- All required fees
- The amount of sales tax or proof that applicable sales tax has been paid
In addition, you must also present an acceptable form of photo identification, which does not necessarily have to be a motorcycle license.
How Much Is It to Register a Motorcycle in Texas?
The fee for a motorcycle registration in Texas is $30. If you need to also apply for a title, that carries an additional fee of $28 to $33, depending on the county. You may also be charged a processing and handling fee of $4.75. Some counties also charge an additional local fee of up to $31.50.
You will need to pay for the required safety inspection that costs $7.50, or up to $30.75 if you bring a motorcycle from out of state. Finally, you will also need to ensure that the applicable sales tax on the purchase of the motorcycle has been paid.
Contact Our Lawyers If You Have Been Injured in a Motorcycle Accident in Texas
If you were hurt in a motorcycle accident in Texas, contact Goldenzweig Law Group, PLLC, today for a free consultation with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney. Learn how we can help you pursue fair financial compensation from those at fault for the accident that injured you. Call us now or fill out our contact form online