Permit, then endorsement
An endorsement is the motorcycle add-on to your regular driver license. Many riders start with a 2-wheel instruction permit, which lets you practice under daylight and no-passenger rules while you train. You need to be at least 16 and hold a valid Washington license. The permit details are in the motorcycle permit guide.
The two tests
Like a car license, there are two: a knowledge test (25 questions, 80 percent to pass) and a riding skills test. You can take them at the DOL, or, far more commonly, complete an approved training course that includes both. The course route is how most Washington riders earn the endorsement.
The shortcut most riders take
Finish an approved motorcycle safety course and you are exempt from the DOL written and skills tests. WMST is that approved school. You learn to ride properly on a closed range, then test there, and take the certificate to the DOL for your endorsement. We explain it in how the course waiver works.
Which course is right for you
WMST runs courses for every level, from the KickStart intro for total beginners to the beginner and intermediate permit courses and full 2-wheel endorsement. Not sure which one? The course guide walks you through it, and we cover the difference between two and three wheels in this guide.