Every owner or operator of a motor vehicle or motor bicycle desiring a license for such motor vehicle or motor bicycle shall file an application with the city clerk, upon a form provided by him, setting forth the name and address of the applicant and a description of the motor vehicle or motor bicycle for which the license is desired. Upon the payment by the applicant of the fee prescribed, the clerk shall issue or cause to be issued a license which shall be attested by the clerk, authorizing the use of such motor vehicle or motor bicycle within the city until the expiration of such license. (Prior code § 24-6-19)