Motorcycle Safety Program

Which Course is Right for You?

These simple questions may help you decide which course to take:
Have you ever ridden a motorcycle?
• If "NO", then BRC
• If "YES"
  • Have you ridden at least 2,000 miles?
    • If "NO", then BRC
    • If "YES"
      • Are you licensed?
        • If "NO", then ABRC
        • If "YES", then BRC II

Basic Rider Course (BRC):
The Basic Rider Course is a 17-hour course (7 hours classroom and 10 hours range) designed for those who have little or no riding experience, or haven't ridden in a long time. It includes classroom and riding instruction on the basic riding skills and strategies necessary for an individual to begin to practice street riding.

During the seven hours of classroom time participants will discuss topics included in the Student Handbook. Topics include responsible riding, selecting proper riding gear, and discussions about the basic riding skills. Other topics include defensive riding strategies and how to handle a variety of riding situations. Participants receive approximately 10 hours of riding on a training motorcycle practicing clutch / throttle control, stopping, turning, shifting, and basic crash avoidance skills. Throughout the course the instructors evaluate and coach each rider's performance.

Motorcycle Handbook: Montgomery College makes every attempt to get the textbook to the students at least one week prior to class. If you register in person, you will receive your book when you register. If you register by mail or fax, we will mail your book to you. If you register by web, you must call us at 240-567-5188 to let us know that you have registered for Motorcycle so that we can mail you the book.

To successfully complete the course, riders must pass both a knowledge and skill evaluation administered at the end of the course. Riders who pass both will receive a Maryland Motorcycle Safety Program Completion Card. Those with a Maryland license take it to the Maryland MVA to receive a new license with the "M" indicating the motorcycle license. See the FAQs for information for those who are not Maryland residents, in the military or are teens.

There is no guarantee that an individual enrolling in this course will pass, or get their license. For more information on the BRC course, and obtaining a Class "M" license see the Maryland MVA's web site http://www.mva.maryland.gov/MVA-Programs/moto/training/basicrider.htm

Students wishing to review the Rider Handbook prior to class may view it online: Rider Handbook online (not printable) . Students will receive a copy of the handbook on the first day of class.

Alternate Basic Rider Course (ABRC)
The Alternate Basic Rider Course is only for individuals who are accomplished riders with recent riding experience who are seeking a Class "M" license. If you have any doubt about which class to take, you should take the Basic Rider Course (BRC). All learning activities for this course are conducted on the riding range. You must be properly dressed, with appropriate safety gear to participate in the class. For more information on the ABRC see the MVA course description at http://www.mva.maryland.gov/MVA-Programs/moto/training/intermbasicrider.htm You may also wish to review the course curriculum provided by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.

Experienced Rider Course (BRC II)
The Experienced Rider Course BRC IIis for those who already have a Class "M" license and want to improve or refresh your skills. You will be expected to ride your own bike, and provide proof of insurance and registration. You must be properly dressed, with appropriate safety gear to participate in the class. For more information on the BRC II see the MVA course description at http://www.mva.maryland.gov/MVA-Programs/moto/training/expridcours.htm You may also wish to review the course curriculum provided by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.

For motorcycle-specific information, such as information about class content, or to see which class is the right one for you, contact the training center manager at Motorcycle@montgomerycollege.edu or the motorcycle hotline at 240-567-1864 for more information.

For other questions such as registration or class schedules you may contact the Motorcycle Hotline at 240-567-1864 or email Motorcycle@montgomerycollege.edu.

The schedule of classes lists the most recent information on class dates and times. For further information about registration procedures and other frequently asked questions please visit Motorcycle Safety FAQs .

Page last updated December 5, 2011