Motorcycle Rider Education

The Importance of Rider Education

In 2015, one in four motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes in the United States did not have a valid license at the time.¹

The NYS Department of Motor Vehicles has established a motorcycle rider education program statewide. This program is designed to decrease the number of motorcycle-related injuries and fatalities and to increase safety on the roads for all New York State motorists.

This program is especially recommended for those trying to get a motorcycle operator's license. Upon completion of the Basic RiderCourse^®, developed by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, students will receive a waiver for the traditional road test. The course must be taken at a NYS Department of Motor Vehicle-approved location.

The Basic RiderCourse^®: Riding and Street Skills is a 15-hour course that includes a written and on-motorcycle skills test. You must pass both sections to qualify for the road test waiver. In addition, you must have a valid motorcycle learner's permit. To receive a learner's permit, you must first pass a written exam at a NYS Department of Motor Vehicle testing location.

Basic RiderCourse^® Covers

• Preparing to ride
• Turning, shifting and breaking
• Street strategies
• Special situations
• Increasing riding skills
• Motorcycle maintenance and insurance

For More Information

• New York State Department of Motor Vehicles Motorcycle Manual
  • For the nearest testing site, call 1-800-446-9227.
• The Motorcycle Safety Foundation also has information on their website.

Notes

• ¹Fatality Analysis Reporting System