The Price of Motorcycle Safety

Normally, we’d say priceless; however, because you can’t exactly write a check for that, let’s look at some hard numbers.

The good news is that motorcycle training isn’t all that expensive in some states. In Rhode Island, for example, you’ll pay $99 for the Basic Rider Course. However, some states have pricier courses; in Massachusetts, you’ll pay anywhere from $199 to $389, depending on the test site, and California charges $150 for riders younger than 21 and up to $250 for riders 21 and older.

Keep in mind, though, that fees can start to rack up (even higher, in the case of some states) if you’re not careful. For example, Rhode Island charges $99 for the Basic Rider Course, but it’s another $40 if you have to reschedule and another $50 if you let your completion certificate expire and have to take the riding test again.

Of course, you might get lucky and live in a state like Pennsylvania, where motorcycle training is free. Don’t think you can just cross state lines to get a better deal, though; most states charge a fee (or a higher fee) for out-of-state students. Pennsylvania, for example, charges $250 if you’re not a resident of The Keystone State.

Visit your state’s DMV website to find out information about your state’s motorcycle course; then, give the course administrators a call to find out exact prices. If your state’s price seems high, don’t get discouraged. Remember that:

• You might not have a choice. Some states require motorcycle training before allowing an applicant to get a motorcycle license or endorsement on an existing drivers license.
• Completion of the course might mean you can skip the on-cycle motorcycle test at the DMV. Lots of states offer this perk.
• The training you’ll receive really is priceless. Maybe you’ve been driving for years, but motorcycles are a whole new ballgame. You need the education.

The Motorcycle Safety Foundation

Chances are, your state’s motorcycle course is affiliated with – or modeled after – the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. This organization set the national standards for motorcycle safety.

Therefore, it only makes sense to visit the MSF website and gain even more information about safe and legal motorcycle riding. In addition to a motorcycle practice test that will help you learn about road signs and collision traps, the website provides a wealth of information about riding gear, group riding, riding with a passenger, and the effects of drugs and alcohol while riding.