Contact Information:
Program Director
Marcy Jackson
240-567-2589

marcy.jackson@montgomerycollege.edu

Motorcycle Safety Program, FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions

REGISTRATION RELATED QUESTIONS 

Where do I register?
When do I register?
What is the registration process?
What happens if there is inclement weather on the date of Registration?
How do I register?
How much does it cost?
How do I pay for the class?
What do I need to bring to registration?
How old do I have to be to sign up?
Can a friend register me?
Can I call my registration in?
Can I fax my registration form in?
Can I register via the web?
Can I register at other campuses?
What happens if I owe the College money?
What is the lottery?

SPECIAL SERVICES / CIRCUMSTANCES RELATED QUESTIONS

What should I do if I have a disability?
What about the weather?
Do I need a driver’s license?
What if I’m under 18?
What if I don't speak English?
If I can not finish the class, can I get a refund?

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS and COURSE RELATED QUESTIONS

What course should I take?
Can I preview the material for the course?
How long does a course last?
What is the typical course schedule?
Can I ride my own motorcycle during the range portion of the course?
What does the Motorcycle Safety Program (MCSP) provide?

CLASS RELATED QUESTIONS

Where is my class held?
What time does my class start?
When does the training center open?
What happens if I’m late?
What do I need to wear for the class?
Can I keep my cell phone or pager on during class and range time?
Who teaches the class?

LICENSING & TEST RELATED QUESTIONS

Can I get my Motorcycle License?
If I am active duty military, and have an out of state license, what documentation do I receive?
Is there any guarantee that I will pass the class and get my license?
If I fail a test what do I do?
What are the requirements for obtaining my M license ?

How do I apply to become a Motorcycle Instructor?

CONTACT RELATED QUESTIONS

What if I still have questions, whom do I talk to?

Answers to REGISTRATION RELATED QUESTIONS

Where do I register?

Registration is only held at the:
Montgomery College Gaithersburg Business Training Center (GBTC).
12 South Summit Avenue, Suite 400, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20877

When do I register?

In-person registration begins at 7:30 a.m. on the designated registration day. See our Motorcycle Safety Program Registration Information page for specific information.

What is the registration process?

At 7:00am, Reservation cards will be given to registrants waiting in line according to the number of seats available in the classes. If you get a card, there is a seat available for you in a class. Registration is done on a first come, first served basis and seats are limited. There is usually a long line of registrants by the time the Reservation cards are distributed at 7:00 a.m.Consider this a very popular course; be prepared to get in line earlier than 7:00am.

Registrants will be admitted into the building at approximately 7:30 am, in sections to begin the registration process which includes completion of registration forms, verification of billing account information and course selection. You will be called to register according to your numbered registration card; if your number is called and you do not respond, we will move to the next numbered registrant, and you will be placed at the end of the line. Your specific processing time will vary; we typically have all participants registered within 4 hours.

What happens if there is inclement weather on the date of Registration?

Please check www.montgomerycollege.edu or the main phone number at 240-567-5000 for college closings due to inclement weather.

How do I register?

You must register IN PERSON at the Gaithersburg Business Training Center (GBTC). See the Motorcycle Registration page for specific dates and times.

How much does it cost?

Costs vary by course and are subject to change each term.
Course costs are listed with the schedule.

How do I pay for the class?

The College accepts the following credit cards only: Master, Visa or Discover.
Also accepted are money orders or personal checks (with your address).
Please be advised, cash is not accepted.

What do I need to bring to registration?

If you are registering for someone else, you need their driver’s license number and their payment. If you do not have a driver’s license you will need to provide another form of identification which verifies your age.

How old do I have to be to sign up?

Effective October 2008 the Motor Vehicle Administration requires that students under the age of 18, or those applying for their first driver's license must complete the Maryland Graduated License Program before they can apply for a secondary license (such as motorcycle). See MVA Rookie Driver for more information.

Can a friend register me?

Yes.
However, please be aware that only one (1) registration is allowed per individual. If your friend registers you, they cannot register themselves.

Can I call my registration in?

No.
See“How do I register” above.

Can I fax my registration form in?

Only ABRC and ERC students are eligible to fax their registrations. BRC students must register in person. Students should contact Customer Service for availability at 240-567-5188. See the Motorcycle Registration page for specific dates and times.

Can I register via the web?

No
You may only register in person on the set registration date.

Can I register at other campuses?

No.
In-person registration is only held at the Gaithersburg Business Training Center (GBTC), 12 South Summit Avenue, Suite 400, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20877.

What happens if I owe the College money?

The College will not allow you to register until all previous financial obligations are resolved.

Do you offer a lottery or stand-by?

Yes. Montgomery College offers the Standby process administered by the MVA's Training Center Manager through a lottery to ensure full enrollment of each course when registered students do not show up for the course. To participate in the lottery, students may not be preregistered for another course and should show up no earlier than 30 minutes prior to the beginning of class. BRC students are to report to the student lounge at the training center located on the 4th floor of Montgomery College's Business Training Center. ABRC / ERC students should report to the range (14 Firstfield Road). Students will sign their name on the standby roster. A few minutes before the course begins, name(s) will be chosen by lottery for available spaces in the course. The standby roster and lottery will only accept a limited number of names as the likelihood for more than one lottery participant to win is low given that there are rarely more than 2 spaces available in each course.

Another option is to contact another training center in Maryland to see if they might have space available; please see "Who Else Offers This Course" under the Contacts section below.

What should I do if I have a disability?

For hearing related disability accommodations, such as an interpreter, please contact the MVA-MC Training Center Manager or Program Director, at least 3 or more weeks before the class begins to allow sufficient time to make necessary arrangements. For all other disability related accommodations you must contact Montgomery College's Disability Support Services: dss@montgomerycollege.edu . In either case, you must first be registered for the class.

What about the weather?

Classes are sometimes affected by the weather. In the case of extreme weather conditions, please check www.montgomerycollege.edu or the College’s main phone number at 240-567-5000, which will indicate if the college (and all of its classes) is closed. Unless the college is closed or you are contacted by the Instructor, you can expect the course to proceed. Should you have any questions about the course you may contact the training center manager Henry Winokur at 301-320-2104, or email: tcm_mc@verizon.net or the hotline at 240-567-1864 for any special instructions, if applicable.

Do I need a driver’s license?

Effective October 2008, students under the age of 18, or those applying for their first driver's license, must complete the Maryland Graduated License Program, before they can apply for a secondary license (such as motorcycle). See MVA ROOKIE Driver or MVA ROOKIE Driver FAQs for more information on those new laws and how they may affect you.

What if I’m under 18?

Students must complete the Maryland Graduated License Program before you can apply for a secondary license, such as a motorcycle license. If you are under 18, Maryland law requires you to take the BRC to get a motorcycle license. A parent or legal guardian does not have to be present with the student at registration. However, in order to participate in the class your parent or legal guardian must sign the MVA/MCSP Release form which will be given out at registration. You will not be allowed to attend the first range session unless your parent or guardian has signed the release form. See the MVA ROOKIE driver program for more information on the Maryland Graduated License Program.

What if I don't speak English?

All class content including discussion, text reading, exercises and exams are conducted in English. There are no translators provided. Students can assess their English proficiency by using the ESOL campus testing services prior to registering, call 240-567-7262.

What is the refund policy?

See the Policies and Procedures page.

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS and COURSE RELATED QUESTIONS

What course should I take?

Option (1)

You should consider the Beginning Rider Course (BRC). If you:

a) have never ridden a motorcycle before or

b)  are returning to motorcycling after a long hiatus (particularly if you do not have a license or have never had formal riding instruction)

For a description of the BRC click here: http://www.marylandmva.com/MVAProg/moto/basicrider.htm

Option (2)

ABRC: You may want to consider the Alternate BRC (A-BRC), if you have some riding experience or are currently riding without a license and simply want to get your license. The ABRC is akin to an SAT prep course. You bring your previous skills, which will be honed a bit and then you will be tested. You must be properly dressed to participate in the class; see What do I wear for class?. For a description of the Alternate BRC click here: http://www.marylandmva.com/MVAProg/moto/intermbasicrider.htm

Option (3)

ERC: Only licensed riders may participate in ERC. You will be expected to ride your own bike. Program bikes will not be available. You will be asked to provide proof of insurance for the motorcycle that you will be riding. You must be properly dressed to participate in the class; see What do I wear for class?. The dress code is the same for the BRC. For a description of the ERC click here:
http://www.marylandmva.com/MVAProg/moto/expridcours.htm

Can I preview the material for the course?

Yes.
For the BRC, you can review the classroom guide at
http://www.msf-usa.org/index_new.cfm?spl=2&action=display&pagename=Library. Once you get to the page, scroll down until you see the Rider Course Handbook link, and click on it. Please note that this is a PDF file that cannot be saved to your computer. You can only view it.

For the Alternate BRC / ERC, you can study the guide at : http://www.msf-usa.org/index_new.cfm?spl=2&action=display&pagename=Library. Once you get to the page, scroll down until you see the ERC Rider Classroom Cards link, and click on it. Please note that this is a PDF file that cannot be saved to your computer. You can only view it.

How long does a course last?

The BRC takes approximately 17 hours, usually with 2 days of classroom sessions and two days on the range. See schedule for dates and times.

The Alternate BRC and ERC take approximately 7 - 8 hours each.

What is the typical course schedule?

  WEEKEND BRC

The weekend BRC classes are held weekday evenings from 6-9 p.m., and parts of the immediately following Saturday and Sunday. If you are in a weekend BRC you will be attending class on both Saturday and Sunday from either 7:45 a.m. until about 3:00 p.m. OR 10:50 a.m. until about 6:00 p.m.

No changes can be made to your assigned range group.

  WEEKDAY BRC

If you are participating in a weekday BRC you will be in the classroom Tuesday afternoon from 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. and Wednesday morning from 9 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. You’ll be on the Range on Wednesday from 12:45 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to about 2:00 p.m.

Alternate BRC and ERC

If you are participating in an Alternate BRC or an ERC, you will be at the range from either 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. on a single day or from 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on 2 consecutive weekend days. All classes include mid-class breaks and lunch breaks.

Can I ride my own motorcycle during the range portion of the course?

In the BRC you must ride a motorcycle provided by the Motorcycle Safety Program.
In the Alternate BRC you may ride your own motorcycle provided it is transported legally to the range and is properly tagged and insured. (Proof of insurance will be required.)
In the ERC participants must be licensed motorcyclists and will be expected to ride their own bikes. Training motorcycles will not be available for ERC student use. Proof of proper license and insurance will be required prior to the beginning of the class.

What does the Motorcycle Safety Program (MCSP) provide?

All borrowed equipment must be returned at the end of each class/ range session.
For the BRC, the MCSP provides the instructors, the curriculum materials and the RiderCourse Handbook—which you receive on the first day of class, and which you can keep. The MCSP also provides training motorcycles, helmets, gloves, and eye protection—which must be returned at the end of each range session. If you own your own equipment, you are encouraged to use it as long as it meets the requirements noted below.

For the Alternate BRC, the MCSP provides the instructors, the curriculum materials and, the Classroom Cards, training motorcycles, helmets, gloves, and eye protection. All borrowed equipment must be returned at the end of your class.

For the ERC, the MCSP provides the instructors, the curriculum materials and, the Classroom Cards—which must be returned at the end of the class. You will be expected to ride your own motorcycle. Training motorcycles will not be available. No exceptions .

Where is my class held?

Most BRC classes are held in Room 404 at the GBTC, some may be offered at the Germantown campus.
Alternate BRC and ERC classes are only held on the Training Range located about 200 yards to the west of the intersection of Bank Street and Firstfield Road in Gaithersburg. The entrance to the parking lot is located across from 15 Firstfield Road.
DRIVING DIRECTIONS to range.

Alternate BRC and ERC:
Report to the Range as noted above. Class starts at 9:00 am promptly unless otherwise noted.

We recommend you be at the proper location at least 5 minutes prior to the posted starting time. Please see the LATE policy, below.

When does the training center open?

The training center opens 30 minutes prior to the beginning of class.

What happens if I’m late?

We urge you to be on time. If you are late, you will lose your place in the class! If this occurs, you must request a refund, refunds are not automatic you must request one. There is no opportunity in the course to review missed material. The class starts at the time specified according to the GBTC classroom clock or the Training Center Manager’s watch if the class is being conducted on the range.
Neither Montgomery College, nor the MD MVA are responsible for traffic, weather or any other condition or circumstance that might cause a participant to be late.
It is the student’s responsibility to be on time for each class session. We recommend that you plan to be at the proper location 15 minutes prior to the start of class.

What do I need to wear for the class?

For the BRC, you will be in the classroom for the 1^st day, so wear whatever you are comfortable in. Proper riding apparel will be discussed in class. If you are taking Alternate BRC or the ERC class you should also take note of the required clothing and the new helmet requirements noted below.

In order to ride you will need the following (this applies to all classes):
Long sleeve shirt or jacket, sturdy long pants, over-the-ankle NON-canvas shoes with a low heel.

Not recommended: |
1) Cowboy-type boots, or
2) Shoes with soles over ½” thick
For your safety, you will not be allowed to ride if your apparel, as described above, is not appropriate.

If you have your own helmet you are encouraged to use it, but it must meet US Department of Transportation (DOT) standards and be in good condition with all labeling intact. Student supplied helmets MUST have a clear face shield. If the face shield is tinted or reflectorized plan to ride with it in the raised position. You will need additional eye protection which you may supply or borrow from the training center. Failing that you may borrow a helmet from the training center if the proper size is available.

You will also need full-fingered gloves and eye protection. For the class, eye protection can consist of any eyeglasses (prescription or not) or sunglasses (prescription or not) sold in Maryland. If you don’t have these items—helmet, gloves or eye protection—the Program can loan you some if available. While we encourage you to use your own, if you do not own your gear prior to class, we encourage you to wait until the classroom discussion regarding protective gear before buying it. In all cases your instructors will make the final judgment.

Can I keep my cell phone or pager on during class and range time?

The Maryland Motorcycle Safety Program does not permit the use of these devices except during breaks. Ideally they should be turned "off". This is a courtesy and safety issue. Students using communication devices during class time or on the range will be removed from class. We ask that you leave your communication devices in your vehicle while you are on the range.

Who teaches the class?

Instructors who are certified by the Maryland Motorcycle Safety Program (MCSP) and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) teach all classes.

LICENSING & TEST RELATED QUESTIONS

Can I get my Motorcycle License?

Yes.
If you successfully complete either the BRC or the Alternate BRC .
Individuals who pass the Licensing Standard will get a Completion Certificate that they must take to a full service MVA office to get the ‘M’ endorsement added to their current license.

If I am active duty military, with an out of state license, what documentation will I receive?

Individuals who pass the Licensing Standard will get a Maryland Completion Card (the business card sized document) to present to your state agency for approval. You will not receive a Completion Certificate (the letter sized document).

Is there any guarantee that I will pass the class and get my endorsement?

No.
One of the intentions of rider training is to allow an individual to find out if riding a motorcycle is suitable for them.
If you can not complete the course or if you fail the course, this may be an indication that motorcycling is not best suited for you.

If I fail a test what do I do?

You can retake a failed test one time. Information on this will be given in class.

How Do I become a Motorcycle Safety Instructor?

The MVA is looking for experienced motorcyclists to be part-time instructors. For more information you may visit their website: http://www.marylandmva.com/MVAProg/moto/Instructor.htm

What are the requirements for obtaining my M endorsement once I receive my certificate from the course?

For more information go to the MVA MCSP website: http://www.marylandmva.com/MVAProg/moto/classM.htm

CONTACT RELATED QUESTIONS

What if I still have questions, whom do I talk to?

For registration information, and to see if there is any space still available in any class, call Montgomery College, the Motorcycle Safety Program hotline, at 240-567-1864.
For motorcycle-specific information, such as information about class content, or to see which class is the right one for you, contact the Motorcycle Training Center Manager Henry Winokur, 301-320-2104 or email tcm_mc@verizon.net.

Who else offers this course?

The Motorcycle Safety Program has training centers in most counties in Maryland.

For a complete listing, visit the MVA at
www.marylandmva.com/MVAProg/moto/register.htm

Page last updated June 30, 2008