Motorcycle Endorsement in Saskatchewan: The MGDL Program Explained
Every first-time motorcycle rider in Saskatchewan — regardless of age — must complete the Motorcycle Graduated Driver Licensing (MGDL) program before getting a full, unrestricted "M" endorsement.
Basic requirements
You must be at least 16 (with parental approval if under 18) and already hold a Class 5 or higher driver's licence. The program has three stages: Learner (6 Endorsement), Novice 1, and Novice 2.
Stage 1: Motorcycle Learner (6 Endorsement)
Pass three written exams at 80% each — basic knowledge, signs, and motorcycle knowledge ($25 per exam, per attempt) — plus a vision test. Then choose one of two paths:
- SGI-approved motorcycle training course (recommended): skips the basic ability road test and the "R" engine-size restriction, and qualifies you for a Safe Driver Recognition (SDR) discount once you reach Novice 2.
- Basic ability road test: $55, up to 3 attempts, tests control identification, starting, stopping, turning and balance on your own motorcycle.
Validate your 6 Endorsement at a SGI motor licence issuer near you and pay a $500 MGDL fee (waived if you completed SGI-approved training). You must ride as a learner for 12 months (max 24) before the next stage.
Stage 2: Novice 1
Pass a motorcycle road test ($55). Pay another $500 MGDL fee (waived with approved training), then ride incident-free for 12 months.
Stage 3: Novice 2
Pay the final $500 MGDL fee (waived with approved training) and complete another 12 incident-free months to graduate to a full, unrestricted "M" endorsement.
Total MGDL fees without approved training: $1,500 across all three stages.
$450 training rebate
If you joined MGDL after January 1, 2016, completed SGI-approved training, graduated incident-free, and remain a Saskatchewan resident with a valid licence, you qualify for a $450 rebate, mailed automatically after graduation.
Required gear at every stage
Covered arms and legs, finger-covering gloves, ankle-covering boots, and an approved 3/4, modular or full-face helmet meeting ANSI, CSA, DOT, Snell or ECE 22.05 standards. You must also display the correct placard: red "L" as a learner, green "N" as a Novice 1 or 2 rider.
Restrictions during MGDL
No passengers (until fully experienced), zero tolerance for alcohol or drugs, no towing, and learners can't ride between half an hour after sunset and half an hour before sunrise. Novice riders can't ride between midnight and 5 a.m.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to get a full motorcycle licence in Saskatchewan?
Up to $1,500 in MGDL fees across three stages, waived entirely if you complete an SGI-approved motorcycle training course.
How long does the MGDL program take?
A minimum of 36 months (12 months per stage), assuming no incidents or licence lapses extend it.
Fees and requirements are set by SGI and can change. Always confirm current details on SGI's official site or with your nearest motor licence issuer before visiting.
