FAQ

A printable version of the following questions is available for download here.

Questions

Answers

  • What does your program do?

    Successful completion of this course may waive the riding skills test at the California DMV, teaches you techniques and strategies to be a safer rider, and may provide an insurance discount, depending on your provider.

  • Is the Pacific Safety Council "an approved" Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) site?

    Yes, as one of the two currently recognized CMSP training sites in San Diego County, we teach the MSF Basic RiderCourse and Experienced RiderCourse curriculum as prescribed by the CMSP.

  • How old do I have to be before I can enroll in the Basic RiderCourse?

    If you are at least 15 ½ years old and have a valid driver’s license or instruction permit, or have proof of successful completion of driver’s education (classroom), you may enroll. Please note that if you are younger than 18 you will need your parent or legal guardian present at your first training session to co-sign a liability waiver.

  • Do I need a Motorcycle's Permit prior to enrolling in the Basic RiderCourse?

    Possession of a motorcycle operator permit is not required to attend this course.

  • Can I have an out of State or International Drivers License?

    Yes, as long as your license is valid, or you have a valid permit.

  • What is the cost of the course?

    The cost is $150 for riders who are under 21 years of age and $250 for riders 21 and over. Please be aware that tuition for the BRC does not include DMV fees associated with obtaining your motorcycle license.

  • How long does the course take to complete the course?

    The course is approximately 15 hours total. A 5-hour classroom session and a 10-hour riding session on the riding range.

  • What do I need to bring to the class and to the riding portion of the course?

    For the classroom:

    • A pen
    • Glasses, if you need them for viewing paperwork and video monitors.

    For the riding portion:

    • eye protection
    • a long-sleeved shirt or jacket
    • full-fingered gloves
    • long pants
    • sturdy over- the-ankle footwear.

    Additionally, it is recommended that you bring some snacks and beverages for yourself. We provide bottled drinking water and other accommodations for your comfort.

  • How do I sign up for the course?

    You can sign up online and pay through our secured provider, PayPal, or you can give us a call at (858) 621-2313 ×110.

  • If I change my mind will I receive a full refund?

    No. If you change your mind before the 5th business day prior to your first class session, you will receive all but $25.00 of your enrollment fee. No refunds are given after the 5th business day prior to your first class session.

  • How much does it cost to reschedule a class?

    There is a fee of $25.00 if we receive your request before the 5th business day prior to your first class session. For example, if your first class session is on Monday the 12th, you can request to reschedule up to the close of business on Friday the 2nd.

  • Do I get a copy of the Basic RiderCourse Handbook?

    Yes, besides being able to access the student workbook through clickable links in your course confirmation letter, you will receive a printed copy when you attend your classroom session.

  • Do you supply the motorcycles and riding gear for the Basic RiderCourse?

    Yes, we provide the motorcycles, helmets, riding glasses and full-fingered gloves. Please bring your own DOT approved helmet if you have one.

  • What size motorcycles do you use?

    Our training motorcycles range in engine size from 125cc up to 250cc.

  • Can I use my own scooter in the BasicRider Course?

    Yes, if your scooter is less than 500cc, in sound mechanical condition, registered and insured, you may use it during the course. Please contact the Motorcycle Safety Program Manager at (858) 621-2313 if you would like to use your own scooter, or to request the use of ours.

  • Do I need to have any riding experience or be a certain height?

    It is not essential to have any riding experience and we have no minimum height restrictions. However, you must have the ability to be able to touch both feet on the ground while straddling a motorcycle and must be able to hold the bike up when stopping or walking the motorcycle. If you have not ridden a bicycle in a long time, it would be a good idea to get some practice before attempting to ride a motorcycle.

  • What if I arrive late to the classroom or to the riding range?

    Classes start promptly. If you arrive late, you will not be allowed to attend the class and/or the riding range session. You will then be placed in a “Standby” status which operates as a first come first serve basis.

  • What if I am counseled-out of the riding portion of the course by a RiderCoach?

    If you are counseled out of the course by a RiderCoach, you have 90 days from the date of your first class session to complete all course requirements. Non-completion of the course within the 90 day period means disenrollment and forfeiture of the registration fee. To complete your training, you will be required to re-register as a new student. During the 90 day period, you may return to the course as a walk-in Stand By student on a first-come, first-served basis unless you choose to purchase a paid Stand-By seat for $50.00. Paid Stand-By seats are limited. For questions, please call our office from Monday through Thursday, 7am to 6pm at (858) 621-2313.

  • What if I don’t pass the knowledge test or the skills evaluation?

    If you do not pass the knowledge test or the skills test evaluation, you can re-take the skills evaluation at a later time. Contact the MSP Site Manager to reschedule a re-take of either the knowledge test or the skills test evaluation.

  • What is the pass rate of the Basic RiderCourse.

    Our student success rate is about 90%. Not everyone learns at the same rate and some people do not pass the course the first time through. Our experience shows that returning students are quick to pick up where they left off, and are more relaxed. Your registration fee allows you to repeat the course a second time if needed, and our 90 day training opportunity window is usually more than enough time to complete the course requirements.

  • Will I get a license after the course?

    Upon successful completion of the Basic RiderCourse, you will be issued a California DMV Form DL-389, which you will need to surrender to the DMV office to receive your motorcycle-endorsed driver license.

    Please note that the DMV motorcycle written test and application fee is not included in our program, and possession of a DL-389 does not provide the same privileges as a properly endorsed driver license.

  • How long is my DL-389 valid?

    There is no expiration date on your DL-389. DMV changed the physical form of the DL-389 in February 2010 and previously issued versions are no longer accepted. Holders of the old form issued by us may submit a written request for a new form.

  • Do some companies reimburse you for the Basic RiderCourse?

    Yes, some dealerships and motorcycle manufacturers may offer a rebate program to encourage you to take the BRC. Once you complete the course you will be issued a MSF Basic RiderCourse Completion Card and a DL 389. A copy of both of these documents serves as proof of registration and successful completion of the course.

  • Will my insurance company award me a discount on insurance?

    Many insurance companies offer a discount for successful completion of the Basis RiderCourse or the Experienced RiderCourse. Your Completion Card serves as proof of successful course completion.

  • Do I need to know how to shift to take the course?

    While knowing how to shift a manual transmission is not a prerequisite, learning how a clutch is operated allows you to focus on the other aspects of riding a motorcycle, and become familiar with the bike that much quicker. If you do not have an opportunity to practice using a clutch before your class, the second exercise of your first range session will allow you to learn how a clutch is more like a dimmer switch or rheostat, than an on/off switch!

  • Can I trade my BRC completion card from another state for a DL-389?

    No. Only students who successfully complete a Basic RiderCourse administered by a CMSP authorized training site are eligible to receive a DL-389 certificate.

Quick Jump

BRC Fees

Under the ago of 21 = $150 per rider
Age 21 and older = $250 per rider

ERC Fees

$125 per rider