No Motorcycle Endorsement
Riding without a motorcycle endorsement? We help you fix it and push for dismissal or reduced charges in court.
Statutory Requirement
To legally operate a motorcycle in Florida, a driver must have a motorcycle endorsement or a license authorizing motorcycle operation. Section 322.03(4) states that a person may not operate a motorcycle unless they hold a driver license that authorizes such operation.
Section 316.2085 requires riders to sit astride the seat, keep both wheels on the ground and avoid carrying packages that prevent keeping both hands on the handlebars; violations of this section are noncriminal infractions. Driving a motorcycle without the proper endorsement, however, is a second‑degree misdemeanor punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.
Common Issues
Many riders are unaware that completing the basic motorcycle safety course and adding the endorsement to their license is mandatory. Police may stop riders who display improper tags, ride “wheelies” or appear inexperienced. Riding without an endorsement can lead to arrest, impoundment of your motorcycle and a permanent criminal record. Insurance companies may also deny coverage for an accident if you do not have the proper license.
Key Considerations
You must carry a driver license with the motorcycle endorsement any time you operate a two‑wheeled motorcycle; endorsements are not required for autocycles.
Violating the endorsement requirement is a criminal offense, unlike many other equipment or licensing violations, and it can result in jail time.
Completing Florida’s motorcycle safety course is the only way to obtain the endorsement; out‑of‑state licenses may not transfer automatically.
How Ticket Shield Assists
If you are cited for driving without a motorcycle endorsement, Ticket Shield will assess whether the officer’s stop was lawful and whether you were operating a vehicle that actually requires an endorsement. We help clients enroll in the motorcycle safety course and petition the court for dismissal or reduction once the endorsement is obtained. Our attorneys negotiate to minimize penalties and avoid jail, allowing you to keep riding legally.
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