Safe riding requires knowledge and skill.  To earn your endorsement, you must pass both a knowledge test and on-cycle skills test.  These tests cover information, practices, and ideas from the Michigan Motorcycle Operator Manual.  For example, you will be tested for your ability to:

• Keep yourself and your motorcycle in safe condition
• Accelerate, brake, shift, and turn safely
• Help others see you and to help you see and communicate with them
• Adjust speed and position to changes in traffic and riding conditions
• Stop and turn quickly to cope with problems while riding.

To take the rider skills test, you must have a legally equipped and registered motorcycle.  If you ride the motorcycle to the test, you must have a valid motorcycle TIP and be under the constant visual supervision of a licensed motorcycle operator at least age 18.

Passing the Rider Skills Test

The motorcycle operator skills test authorized by the Secretary of State has seven exercises to test your ability to handle a motorcycle.   You do not drive on the road.  The exercises include:

• Engine stall:  This is scored during the entire test.  Points are assessed each time you stall the engine during any exercise.
• Sharp turn:  You ride a short path and then make a sharp left turn at low speed while staying inside a 5-foot path.
• Normal stop:  You must make a smooth stop without skidding, with the front tire of your motorcycle in a painted box. 
• Cone weave: You must weave though a series of five cones which are placed 15 feet apart with a 3 foot offset.
• U-turn:  You must make a right U-turn in a marked area.  Those operating motorcycles with more than 500 cc are allowed extra room to complete the U-turn.
• Quick stop:  You accelerate along a straight path.  At the end of the path which is marked by cones, you must stop your motorcycle as quickly and safely as possible.
• Obstacle turn:  You accelerate along a straight path.  At the end of the path which is marked by cones, you must swerve to avoid an obstacle line and then swerve again to avoid the sideline.

In Michigan, all road tests are offered through a statewide network of public and private organizations certified by the Secretary of State. The Michigan Department of State is committed to assuring that driver tests are given only by qualified persons trained to administer the tests in a fair, honest, and reliable manner.