FAQ

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

Questions

Answers

    Successful completion of the CMSP Basic Rider Course currently waives the DMV riding skills test. In addition, the course gives the student the tools to be a safe and responsible motorcyclist, and may provide possible insurance discounts.

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    Yes. Pacific Safety Center conducts the California State program for beginning and experienced riders. We teach the MSF curriculum adopted for the California Motorcycle Safety Program and are one of the only two approved sites in San Diego County.

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    Any individual 15 ½ years of age or older, who wishes to participate in the Basic RiderCourse (BRC) must possess a valid driver’s license, a DMV-issued instruction permit, or a DMV-issued identification card.

    NOTE: Participants under the age of 18 must have a parent or legal guardian accompany them to the first classroom session in order to sign all required paperwork, including a liability waiver. Legal Guardians must provide notarized proof of status.

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    In California, aspiring riders under the age of 21 must successfully complete the Basic RiderCourse before being issued a motorcycle permit. After being granted a permit, the riders under 18 must wait six months before becoming eligible for a motorcycle endorsement or license. To attend the Basic RiderCourse, you must bring ONE of the following to the first course session:

     CA DMV-issued Identification Card
     Valid class C driver’s license (out of state is acceptable)
     Valid CA DMV-issued motorcycle learner's permit

    Any ONE of these will establish your eligibility to participate in the Basic RiderCourse.

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    No, only a valid driver's license OR CA DMV-issued driver's permit OR CA DMV-issued identification card is required.

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    Yes, as long as your license is valid. An international driver’s license will be accepted for enrollment in the course, but we can only issue a Basic RiderCourse Completion Card upon successful completion of the BRC. To be issued a Certificate of Completion of Motorcycle Training (DL 389), you must provide proof of a valid U.S. driver’s license and/or permit before completing the BRC.

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

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    The course is approximately 15 hours total. You will spend 5 hours in the classroom and 10 hours total on the riding range.

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

    For the riding portion:
     eye protection (sunglasses or prescription glasses are sufficient for the range)
     a long-sleeved shirt or jacket (appropriate for the forecasted weather)
     full-fingered gloves (no holes in the palm or back of the hand)
     long pants (sturdy fabric with no holes, cuts, or tears)
     sturdy over-the-ankle footwear ( think work or hiking boots, no high heels)

    While we do provide helmets, you are more than welcome to bring your own ¾ or full face helmet, if you have one. Half helmets are not allowed to be used in the Basic Rider Course. Additionally, we recommend you bring snacks to the range along with any non-alcoholic beverages you desire. We do provide water and restroom facilities at the range, but there are no vending machines.

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    You can sign up online and pay through our secured provider using American Express, MasterCard, Visa or PayPal. Or you may register over the phone at (855) 4.PSC.411.

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    No. If you change your mind after enrolling and request to cancel before the 5th business day preceding the start of your course, we will refund your tuition minus $25 for processing. There are no refunds for cancellations received inside of the 5th business day before the start of your course.

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    If you contact us before the 5th business day preceding the start of your course, we will change your reservation for a $25 processing fee. There are no class date changes inside of the 5th business day preceding the start of your class.

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    Yes, you will be issued a copy during the classroom session which is yours to take notes in and keep. In addition, your class confirmation letter has embedded links to view the student workbook and print the first two chapters.

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    We provide the motorcycles and helmets. You will need to bring your own gloves and eye protection and are more than welcome to bring your own DOT certified ¾ or full face helmet if you prefer not to use ours. Half helmets are not allowed to be used in the Basic Rider Course.

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    Our training motorcycles have engines ranging from 125cc to 250cc.

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    Yes, if your scooter is 500cc or less and prior approval is given by the Motorcycle Safety Program (MSP) Site Manager. If your scooter has pedals for assisting the engine, (typically found on mopeds under 49cc) you will receive a Class M2 endorsement upon completion of the course.

    NOTE: Proof of registration and insurance (minimum required by law) must be provided prior to riding on the range. The scooter must be in mechanically sound condition and will be inspected before use on the riding range.


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    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 upright when stopping or walking the motorcycle. The ability to ride a bicycle is essential, and the understanding of how to operate a clutch is a plus.

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    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 “Stand-by” status.

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    You will be placed in a “stand-by” status, and have 90 days from your first class date to complete all class sessions including the riding skills evaluation. As a stand-by, you may rejoin the class at the level or day you were counseled out on (Level 1 – the first riding day or Level 2 – the second riding day) as a walk-in, as availability dictates. Availability for walk-in stand-by students is determined by registration vacancies and registered student absences. You may also register for a paid stand-by seat for $65; paid stand-by seats are limited to a maximum of 2 per class.

    If you are not able to complete the course within 90 days from your first class date, you will be disenrolled, and must register as a new student to continue.


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    If you are not successful on the written knowledge test or riding skills test evaluation, you may attempt them a later time.  Contact the MSP Site Manager to schedule a re-take of either the knowledge test or the skills test evaluation.


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    We have a 90% success rate with our students. Everyone learns at a different pace and some students do not complete the course on the first attempt. If your RiderCoach recommends you repeat any portion of the course, you may do so at no additional cost. If you do not pass the course the first time, you may repeat the entire course a second time at no additional cost. We allow you 90 days from the date of your first class session to repeat any or all sessions.

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    You will receive a DL 389 to take to the DMV, which currently waives the riding skill test, but you will need to pass the DMV written motorcycle test if you haven’t already done so. Possession of a DL 389 and a permit does not equal holding a license. Please be aware that tuition for the BRC does not include DMV fees associated with obtaining your motorcycle license.

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    Your issued DL 389 is valid for a period of one year and we encourage you to complete the licensing process as soon as you can.

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    Yes, some dealerships and motorcycle manufacturers may offer an incentive to encourage you to take the BRC. Talk to your local dealership and motorcycle shop to find out what benefits they offer, and what proof of completion you need to obtain the benefit.

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    Many insurance companies offer a discount for successful completion of the Basis RiderCourse or the Advanced RiderCourse; contact your preferred insurer to inquire.

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    Send us an email at moto@psc411.com and we will respond to you as soon as possible!

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BRC Fees

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

BRC2-SP [ERC] Fees

$125 per rider

ARC Fees

$175 per rider