This seven-hour course provides another option for an individual to earn their license without having to take the full 17-hour basic course.  It is only for individuals that have some riding experience and are seeking a Class “M” license.

Instruction is provided by the Motor Vehicle Administration and Motorcycle Safety Foundation certified instructors. The pre-requisites for this course include the ability to:

• Use the clutch and throttle to get the motorcycle in motion;
• Stop the motorcycle properly in a designated area;
• Execute gradual and tight turns;
• Up and downshift smoothly; and
• Achieve a speed of at least 25 mph.

During the initial riding activities, each rider’s ability to operate a motorcycle will be evaluated by the instructors. Rider’s that cannot demonstrate minimum riding proficiency will not be allowed to continue and will need to consider enrolling in the Basic Rider Course. Riders who are not allowed to continue will not be eligible for a refund and may have to pay an additional fee to be enrolled in a Basic Rider Course.

All learning activities are conducted at the riding range. There is no formal classroom, however various topics including preparing to ride, road management and advanced riding techniques are discussed during the course.

Riders can elect to use a program training motorcycle, or they may use their personal motorcycle if it is street legal and they transport it to the training site legally.   See the Program's policy regarding riding a motorcycle to class.  Personal motorcycles must be in good operating condition and pass a routine pre-ride check given as a part of the course. Riders are to provide their own riding gear, which includes a DOT certified helmet, eye protection, jacket, full-fingered gloves, long pants and sturdy over-the-ankle footwear. To complete the course riders must pass a knowledge and skill test administered at the end of the course. Riders who pass will receive a Maryland Motorcycle Safety Program Completion Card. There is no guarantee that an individual enrolling in this course will pass, or get their license.

Enrollment Requirements

• Individuals who possess a valid driver’s license, a Class “M” (motorcycle) learner’s permit or individuals who are eligible for a learner’s permit may enroll in the basic course. Parents or guardians of individuals under the age of 18 enrolling in the course must sign a consent/release form.
• Wear protective clothing (eye protection, suitable jacket, long pants, full-fingered gloves and over-the-ankle footwear) during the riding portion. Students are encouraged to bring their own helmets, but loan helmets are available at the centers. All helmets must be DOT certified and in good condition with proper labeling intact.
• Pay the course registration fee to be officially enrolled in a course. You may attempt to enroll in a course as a stand-by student by reporting to the center on the first day of the course and if selected paying the fee by check or money order.

Course Completion Requirements

To pass the course, you must participate in all the course sessions and pass a knowledge test and the on-cycle test.

• Participate in all course sessions
• Pass a written knowledge test
• Pass a riding skills test

Riders who pass the course will receive a Maryland Motorcycle Safety Program completion card.

Getting Your License

Riders satisfactorily completing the Alternate Basic Rider Course (BRC II) are eligible to receive their Class M License.

General Information

• A motorcycle learner’s permit is not required to participate.
• Training motorcycles are provided but participants may use their personal motorcycle if it is transported legally to the training center.  Motorcycles with sidecars, trikes or scooters may not be used.
• Some insurance companies offer discounts on motorcycle premiums to course graduates.
• The curriculum is approved by the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration and meets or exceeds the standards set by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.
• Course participants are required to report to all scheduled sessions regardless of weather.
• Lateness policy.
• If things don’t go as planned, there are opportunities to:
  • Reschedule the motorcycle rider course
  • Be refunded the course registration fee
  • Retake the motorcycle rider course test(s)