Motorcycle safety training

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Frequently asked questions about motorcycle safety training

Who may attend motorcycle safety training at Fort George G. Meade?

At this time, training is open to active duty, Active Reserve, and Active National Guard only.

Is motorcycle safety training mandatory for military personnel?

Yes, military personnel who are operating a motorcycle on or off duty, regardless of their intent to ride their motorcycle on a military installation, are required to complete a prescribed motorcycle safety training course. Military personnel operating a motorcycle on any military installation are required to complete a motorcycle safety training course. (References: AR 385-55 and DODI 6055.4)

Is motorcycle safety training mandatory for DOD civilians?

No, it is not mandatory. This course is not offered to civilians unless it is directly required for work-related activities.

What is the Basic Rider Course?

The BRC is designed for students who have been riding with a learners permit and have some riding experience, and would like to obtain additional basic riding skills in a secure environment away from traffic and other distractions. The program consists of classroom and hands-on motorcycle training.

What is the Experienced Rider Course?

The Experienced Rider Course is designed for a licensed experienced rider who wants to sharpen his or her skills and operate a motorcycle on post.

What is the Military Sport Bike Rider Course?

The Military Sport Bike Rider Course is a next-level training course designed specifically for experienced motorcyclists that ride sport bikes and have completed either the experienced or basic rider courses. The MSRC is mandatory for licensed military sport bike riders. Civilians and spouses are encouraged to attend as well.

Does Fort Meade have a motorcycle refresher training course?

Yes, the Installation Safety Office offers motorcycle refresher training for licensed riders who have completed a motorcycle safety foundation course. Students must present a motorcycle safety foundation card at sign-in. The refresher training includes two hours of cornering, braking and swerving. This is just a refresher; no certification card will be issued.

What paperwork do I need to register and attend the motorcycle training?

For BRC, valid learners permit or valid driver's license with motorcycle endorsement, proof of insurance and registration are required. For ERC, students must bring a valid driver's license with motorcycle endorsement, proof of insurance and registration. For MSRC, students must have a valid driver's license with motorcycle endorsement, proof of insurance, registration and BRC or ERC card. All students must bring a copy of the email registration confirmation, which was sent automatically by AIRS, to be presented at the gate.

Who teaches the Fort Meade motorcycle safety training courses?

All courses are taught by friendly and knowledgeable rider coaches who are certified by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.

Do you provide motorcycles?

A limited number of training motorcycles are available for use. The BRC and ERC are offered at select motorcycle dealerships and colleges. They may provide bikes. Make sure the training program earns a MSF course completion card.

How do I get my bike on post for scheduled training?

Personnel who are working the gate will allow access for Fort Meade scheduled motorcycle safety training. On the day of your scheduled course, you may ride and show the guard your class registration paperwork. You may use a truck or trailer to transport your motorcycle. You may also have another person ride the bike. Be patient and have your registration paperwork ready.

Do you provide riding gear and personal protective equipment?

No, students must bring their own PPE, protective head gear (DOT approved helmet with face shield or goggles), long fingered gloves, hard-soled shoes that cover the ankle, a long sleeved shirt or medium weight jacket, long trousers and high-visibility garments (bright color for day and retroreflective for night).

How long are the motorcycle training classes?

BRC lasts two days. ERC lasts one day. The Sport Bike Course lasts one day.

How do I preregister for the class?

All registration is done online.

Does anyone else offer motorcycle training in the Fort Meade area?

Yes. the U.S. Navy provides approved traffic safety training at no cost to all military, DOD civilian, retired members of the DDD and dependents. All registration is done online.

How do I cancel a class that I'm currently registered to attend?

If you have a schedule conflict, AIRs allows you to cancel your registration so someone else can take the training slot. There are no penalties for canceling a registration. No shows reduce the number of students that can be trained.

Is there a test?

Yes, you must pass a written and motorcycle skills test.

When I complete the course, can I get a post decal?

Once you pass the BRC or ERC, you must have a motorcycle endorsed license to obtain a post decal. To register a motorcycle on Fort Meade, all military personnel and DOD Civilians must have a motorcycle endorsement on their state driver's license and a Motorcycle Safety Foundation rider's completion card along with the required vehicle documentation needed to be issued a DOD decal. You can not obtain a decal with a learner's permit. Contact the Post Decal Office for additional information.

I have a Motorcycle Safety Foundation completion card from another military facility or college. Do I have to take the training again at Fort Meade?

No, if you are in possession of a MSF card, enjoy the ride. Any motorcycle safety course riders card that states on the card the course meets the standards of the MSF's Experienced Riders Course, Basic Riders Course is acceptable and meets the Army's standard. It never hurts to sharpen your skills. Classes are free. What you learn could be priceless.

I lost my MSF card. What do I do?

If you did not attend the BRC, ERC or the Military Sport Bike Riders Course on Fort Meade, you will have to contact the other location for replacement card assistance.

I have a BRC card. Do I have to attend the ERC class? I have an ERC card. Do I have to attend the BRC class?

No, the BRC is the starting point. All military personnel must take the ERC or MSRC (depending on the type of bike) within one year of completing the BRC. Riders are encouraged to take the ERC course within 60 days of completing BRC. It is mandatory to re-take the ERC and MSRC every three years.

Where is the Fort Meade training classroom and motorcycle range located? How do I get there?

You will find locations and directions to the Fort Meade training classroom and motorcycle range when you register for training at the U.S. Army Traffic Safety Training Program Registration System (AIRs) website.

Where is the Installation Safety Office located?

The office is located on the third floor of Building 4216 (Headquarters Command Battalion building) on Roberts Avenue.

How can I reach the Safety Office point of contact for the motorcycle training program at Fort Meade?

For more information, please call 301-677-6241.

How do I get a learner's permit or license?

Contact the Maryland Department of Motor Vehicles customer service office at 1-800-950-1682 or 301-729-4550. You can also visit the DMV's website.

Will I earn a Class "M" motorcycle license (motorcycle endorsement) after completing the BRC, ERC or MSRC at Fort Meade?

No, Maryland Vehicle Law TR § 16-1603 (f) does not allow the MVA to issue a Class "M" license to an individual who took a motorcycle safety course anywhere other than at a MVA approved training facility offering the administration approved basic motorcycle safety course.

How do I transfer my current license to a Maryland?

Contact the Maryland Department of Motor Vehicles customer service office at 1-800-950-1682 or 301-729-4550. You can also visit the DMV's website.

Do I need a special license to ride a motorcycle?

Yes, you must have at least a motorcycle learner's permit to attend BRC. You may attend BRC with a motorcycle endorsement. You must have a motorcycle endorsement to attend ERC.

Do I have to wear my uniform?

You may wear civilian clothing or your uniform as long as you meet the PPE requirements. Remember, no skin below the chin.

Can I borrow a friend's motorcycle?

Yes, the motorcycle must be street legal. You must have a valid state license or learners permit to attend the BRC and an endorsement to attend the ERC. You can attend the BRC with an endorsement and proof of current insurance.

Can I share a motorcycle with another student?

No, each rider must have his or her own motorcycle.

Do I have to bring water to the motorcycle range?

Yes, bring a few bottles of water to the motorcycle range. The range does not have potable water available. The course is physically demanding in the summer; the Maryland heat and humidity can be brutal.

Are there rest room facilities at the motorcycle range?

No, but there are some facilities near it. There is a gazebo and a picnic table at the motorcycle range.

What do you do if it rains? Will you cancel the course? How about snow?

Prepare for wet weather; bring rain gear. Classes are cancelled when severe weather conditions are forecast, when standing water is on the motorcycle range or when weather conditions close Fort Meade. All other weather decisions are made by the rider coach and the ISO. Safety is number one. Your safety is important. If you don't feel safe, don't ride and reschedule.

What is a motor scooter?

A motor scooter is defined in Maryland Vehicle Law, Section 11-134.5 as a non-pedal vehicle that:

  • Has a seat for the operator.
  • Has two wheels, of which one is 10 inches or more in diameter.
  • Has a step-through chassis.
  • Has a motor with a rating of 2.7 brake horsepower or less or if the motor is an internal combustion engine, with a capacity of 50 cubic centimeters piston displacement or less.
  • Equipped with an automatic transmission.

I ride a moped or scooter. Do I need a motorcycle license and a MSF course?

Mopeds and scooters fall under the same regulations as motorcycles. You must complete an Army-approved motorcycle safety course to ride on post. Mopeds and scooters are not required to be licensed. A Class M motorcycle license is not required. However, each individual operating a moped or a motor scooter on any roadway in Maryland must have a driver license of some class issued in Maryland or from his or her state of residency. A moped operator's permit issued to the individual is also valid. The MVA will not issue a moped operator's permit to any individual whose driver's license is suspended or revoked. Contact the Maryland DMV for additional information.

Can I operate an off road motor vehicle (dirt bike, mini-bike, three-wheeled all terrain vehicle, etc.) on public roadways in Maryland?

Any motor vehicle (other than a moped, unless posted) that is not properly registered, tagged and insured may not be operated upon any public roadways, unless so posted. See the Maryland Driver's Handbook for rules of the road for cars, trucks, motorcycles, pedestrians and bicyclists.

Can I get may motor scooter titled and registered at the Maryland DMV?

Motor scooters cannot be titled or registered in Maryland. However, vehicles built for road use that have greater horsepower and cc's may be titled and registered as a motorcycle.

What is the Army Motorcycle Mentorship Program?

The purpose of the Motorcycle Mentorship Program is to establish voluntary installation-level motorcycle clubs where less experienced riders and seasoned riders can create a supportive environment of responsible motorcycle riding and enjoyment.

Is there a motorcycle mentorship program at Fort Meade?

Yes, for information, call 301-677-0299.

Who teaches the Rider Coach Preparation Course?

MSF-certified Rider Coach trainers teach the course. These specially trained Rider Coaches have completed the MSF's Rider Coach Trainer Preparation Course and are authorized to train candidates for MSF Rider Coach certification.

How do I register for Army Traffic Safety Training Program motor vehicle safety courses?

All registration is done online.

Where can I find additional information, regulations and guidance on motor vehicle, motorcycle, pedestrian and bicycle safety?

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