Basic RiderCourse: Additional Information

Course Participant Eligibility

Any individual, 16 years of age or older, who wishes to participate in a New York State Motorcyclist Safety Program (NYSMSP) course must possess a valid driver’s license.

Prerequisite

Students must be able to ride a bicycle.

eCourse Requirement

You are required to complete the MSF online eCourse within the 30 days prior to the start of your class. After you register, and approximately 30 days before your class, the college will send you the link to register for and complete the mandatory eCourse. There is no additional charge.

You MUST use the link provided by the College or you will not receive credit. If a student does not get the eCourse link or registers late, it is their responsibility to contact us before class to obtain it. Students must complete the correct eCourse. No other eCourse will be accepted — ONLY the link provided by the College is valid.

Under 18 Students

The motorcycle course waiver and indemnification form (PDF) must be signed by a parent/guardian in front of a RiderCoach, or must be signed by a parent/guardian and notarized ahead of time. You will not be allowed to ride without it, and no refunds are given. It is your responsibility to obtain the waiver forms. NYS Graduated Licensing laws apply to the Road Test Waiver.

Shorter Students

If your inseam is less than 28" (measured in boots), please arrange to “try on” a motorcycle at least one week before your class begins. You must be able to sit with both feet flat on the ground to learn safely. If you arrive at class and cannot do this, and did not “try on” one of our motorcycles or scooters, no refund will be given. Call Maggie at (518) 857‑2099 to discuss.

Scooters Available

If you plan to ride a scooter, take your BRC on a scooter. You MUST reserve a scooter when you register for your BRC. If you want to learn to ride but do not want to use a clutch, contact Maggie at (518) 629‑7339 to discuss options before opting to learn on a scooter.

To Qualify for the NYS Motorcycle Road Test Waiver (Completion Card)

Per NYS DMV Regulation

• Students must possess a valid NYS driver license. Upon successful completion of the Basic RiderCourse, a New York State Motorcycle Safety Program (NYSMSP) Completion Card (Road Test Waiver) will be issued. BRC graduates present this card to the NYS DMV, apply for a motorcycle permit (if needed), and pay any fees. You will immediately receive an “M” license added to your driver license. Graduated Licensing laws apply to those under age 18.
• Students may take the course with an out‑of‑state license, but will not receive a NYS license waiver unless their home state recognizes it. Vermont and Massachusetts currently accept the NYS waiver. Students are responsible for verifying reciprocity before registering.
• Students with licenses restricted due to impaired driving convictions may not participate until all restrictions are lifted. It is the student’s responsibility to know this prior to registering.
• Questions about restricted or conditional licenses should be directed to Maggie at (518) 857‑2099 or your local DMV office.

What to Bring

Documents

• Valid NYS Driver License or valid NYS Motorcycle License, NYS Motorcycle Permit (if you have one), and a photocopy of each. Copies can be made in class.
• MSF eCourse completion certificate dated within 30 days prior to your class. A printed copy, photo, or screenshot is acceptable.
• Please review, print, and sign the following documents and bring them to class:
  • Motorcycle Safety Course waiver and indemnification form (PDF)
  • Completed student information form (PDF)
  Blank forms will be available in class.

Students under 18: The waiver must be signed by a parent/guardian in front of a RiderCoach, or must be signed and notarized ahead of time. Failure to comply will result in not being permitted to ride. No refund will be given.

Required Riding Gear

• DOT‑approved helmet — full‑face recommended (loaners available)
• Eye protection (helmet shield, glasses, or sunglasses)
• Full‑fingered gloves
• Over‑the‑ankle boots (no sneakers; no heels more than 1")
• Long‑sleeve shirt or jacket and sturdy long pants (jeans with no holes; no leggings)
• Wear layers and bring rain gear. We ride rain or shine, hot or cold. Light colors are better. If you cannot tolerate heat, register for a course in a cooler month.

Water and Snacks

• Bring 8 oz. of water for each hour of class, and snacks. Small coolers work.
• This is a physically active day. You will need to replenish fluids and energy.
• A wet rag to cool your face and neck is recommended.
• Lunch break: Food is nearby, or bring your own.
• Bring a folding chair for non‑riding outdoor activities.

Schedule

• Allow extra time for weather or other factors that may require staying later than scheduled.
• Plan ahead to avoid scheduling conflicts.

YOU MUST BE ON TIME: Class begins PROMPTLY. Students must be checked in, properly attired, and ready by start time. Arrive 15–30 minutes early.

Note

The BRC riding exercises are physically demanding. You will be required to push the motorcycle while straddling it. All courses require physical stamina, motor coordination, and mental alertness. Some prescription and over‑the‑counter medications may affect your alertness or balance — consult your doctor or pharmacist. Riding takes place outdoors and you may be exposed to rain, wind, cold, heat, or sun.

Day of Class

Report to HVCC Parking Lot F. Plan to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled class.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the eCourse?

A: This online course developed by MSF allows you to become familiar with the basics of motorcycle operation before you begin the on-campus class. The eCourse takes several hours to complete. It must be completed before your class and no more than 30 days before the on-campus component. If you do not have a computer, you can use a computer at your local library or contact Hudson Valley Community College at (518) 629-7339 or communityed@hvcc.edu. If a student does not get the eCourse link or registers late, it is their responsibility to contact us before class to get that information. Students must complete the correct eCourse. No other eCourse will be accepted — ONLY the link provided by the College is valid.

Q: Do I pay separately for the eCourse?

A: No. When you register — and approximately 30 days before your class — the college will email information and directions to access the eCourse. You will take the course at no additional charge. You must use the link provided to complete the correct course and receive credit for completing it.

Q: What protective gear is required to take the BRC?

A: Please bring your gear to the first class session for approval. Required gear includes:

• DOT-approved helmet (loaner helmets available) — full-face recommended
• Eye protection (helmet face shield, prescription glasses, or shatterproof sunglasses)
• Full-fingered, non-slippery gloves
• Over-the-ankle boots (no sneakers; no heels more than 1")
• Long-sleeve jacket or denim shirt and sturdy long pants (jeans with no holes; no leggings)
• Wear layers and bring rain gear. We ride rain or shine, hot or cold. Light colors are better. If you cannot tolerate heat, register for a course in a cooler month or evenings.

Q: What are the requirements for participating in the NYS Motorcycle Safety Program — Basic RiderCourse?

A: Any individual, 16 years of age or older, who wishes to participate in a NYSMSP Basic RiderCourse (MSF BRC) MUST possess a valid NYS Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) issued Driver License or Motorcycle License. Any person younger than 18 years must also have the written permission of his/her parent(s) or legal guardian. The Motorcycle Safety Course waiver and indemnification form (PDF) must be signed by a parent/guardian in front of a RiderCoach, or must be signed by a parent/guardian and notarized ahead of time. The NYSMSP accepts out-of-state student credentials that are acceptable to the NYS DMV. NOTE TO NON‑NYS‑LICENSED STUDENTS: IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE STUDENT to check with their own state's licensing agency about reciprocity of the BRC from NYS.

Q: I have a conditional/restricted license due to an impairment conviction. Can I take the BRC?

A: No. NYS DMV policy states: Any potential student who possesses a license that has been restricted due to one or more convictions for driving while impaired may not participate in any NYSMSP RiderCourse until all restrictions to the license have been lifted. All potential students will be asked to attest that they are not in possession of a restricted license.

Q: What are the requirements to receive all the NYS benefits?

A: To be eligible for the road test waiver, you must possess a valid NYS Driver License. You must successfully complete the online eCourse and the on-campus motorcycle skills evaluation. Attendance at all class sessions is mandatory.

Q: I have a non‑NYS driver's license. Can I take the course and get the road test waiver?

A: The NYSMSP Basic RiderCourse does not offer any license benefit to drivers licensed in another state. Many states accept the NYS BRC for road test waiver. IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE STUDENT to check with their own state's licensing agency about reciprocity of the BRC from NYS. We will make all reasonable efforts to supply the student with records required by that state. Contact us BEFORE registering with any questions.

Q: How long is the Basic RiderCourse?

A: The on-site class is held over a two-day period. Students will participate in both non-riding and on-motorcycle learning exercises. Class times may be extended or changed to compensate for unforeseen situations.

Q: What MUST I bring to the Basic RiderCourse?

A: You must bring:

• Please review, print, and sign the following documents and bring them with you to class:
  • Motorcycle Safety Course waiver and indemnification form (PDF)
  • Completed student information form (PDF)
  We will have blank forms available in class.
• Students age 16–18 must have the Motorcycle Safety Course waiver and indemnification form (PDF), and it must be signed by a parent/guardian in front of a RiderCoach, or be signed by a parent/guardian and notarized ahead of time. You cannot ride without it, and no refund will be given.
• Proof of completion of the proper online eCourse within the 30 days prior to the on-campus class, either a printed certificate or a photo/screenshot of the same. If a student does not get the eCourse link or registers late, it is their responsibility to contact us before class to get that information.
• The original and one copy of your NYS Driver License (class D or higher). We can make copies in class.
• Required riding gear.

Q: What SHOULD I bring to the Basic RiderCourse?

A: Yourself — well rested, open-minded, and ready to try new things. Bring water (8 oz for each hour), a small cooler, energy snacks, sunblock, and a wet cloth to cool your face and neck. Wear layers that can be added or removed according to weather and that will still comply with required riding gear. Your outermost layer should be a light color for sunny days.

Q: Will the course take place in all weather conditions?

A: Yes. You should be prepared to ride in hot, cold, wet, and dry conditions. In the case of severe weather or thunderstorms, the course may be temporarily delayed or canceled. If you are not sure if the course will run, contact Maggie at (518) 857-2099 or info@518rider.com.

Q: What if I fail the skill evaluation?

A: You have 30 days from the completion of BRC to re-test at no charge.

Q: What types of motorcycles/scooters are used for the Basic RiderCourse?

A: Street and dual-purpose motorcycles and scooters of various styles and brands between 100–350cc are used, including many with low seat heights.

Q: Can I take the Basic RiderCourse on a scooter?

A: Yes, we have a limited number of Class A scooters. You must register and reserve a scooter directly with the college at (518) 629-7339. You cannot reserve a scooter by registering online.

Q: My inseam is less than 27 inches. Do you have a motorcycle for me?

A: Please contact Maggie at (518) 857-2099 or info@518rider.com to arrange a time to come in and “try on” a motorcycle to make sure you can safely touch the ground. Please do this at least two weeks before your class.

Q: Do I need a motorcycle permit to take the class?

A: You will be required to obtain a motorcycle permit to use the waiver. The permit can be obtained before or after the class.

Q: What are the physical requirements of the BRC?

A: You must be able to ride a bicycle. Motorcycle exercises require physical stamina, motor coordination, and mental alertness. We offer split-weekday courses, which some students find more manageable from a physical standpoint than the standard two days in a row schedule. If you require daily tranquilizers or pain medication, you probably will not meet the mental alertness criteria. If you have any specific questions about your ability to manage this course, please contact Maggie at (518) 857-2099 or info@518rider.com.

Q: I am under age 18. Can I take the course?

A: Yes, but the Motorcycle Safety Foundation RiderCourse Waiver (PDF) must be signed by a parent/guardian in front of a RiderCoach, or must be signed by a parent/guardian and notarized ahead of time. Please contact Maggie at (518) 857-2099 or a> with any additional questions.

Contact

For questions, contact Capital Area Rider Training LLC Site Administrator Maggie McNally at (518) 857‑2099 or info@518rider.com.

Revised February 2026