P.O. Box 2052 Santa Monica, CA 90406
DMV and CHP Approved Basic Rider Course
Frequently Asked Questions
For on-line reservations or to check the next available training dates and times log on to: https://training.msf-usa .org/res to confirm a riding spot.
Can I come stand-by to get into an earlier class?
Yes, you may attend any classroom session we teach on a stand-by basis. You do not need to call the office to be put on stand-by, just simply show up. If an enrolled student is more than 30 minutes late to the classroom or does not show up, stand-by students are offered the openings on a lottery basis--based on availability. If you do not have a reservation and want to come stand-by, please be prepared to pay at the classroom or the range if you get into a class. You must have a valid drivers license (or m1 permit) and wear sturdy, over-the ankle boots, long sleeve shirt and long pants for the range.
New STAND BY Policy Effective Immediately:
Stand-by's get in on a lottery basis--only if there is a spot that opens up. There are three possible start times for stand-by; 6AM, 11AM and 4PM. Stand-by's should arrive no earlier than 5:30 AM and check in with a RiderCoach on duty.
Any stand-by who arrives earlier than 5:30AM on the weekends will not be permitted to attend the class and may be cited by the VA police.
If you get in, you need to bring $250 if you are 21 or older ($150 if under 21), your drivers license (or M1 permit), water, food, sunscreen, over-the-ankle boots (mandatory), long sleeve shirt, long pants and eye protection. Stand-by's get in on a lottery basis--only if there is a spot that opens up.
How much does the course cost?
21 and older: $250. At least 15 years 6 months and younger than 21 years old: $150.00
What do I need to bring to the classroom?
For the classroom session you need to bring:
a pen glasses (if you need them for reading) Valid Drivers License
If you are under 18 years old, you will also need to bring a parent or guardian to the beginning of the first class to sign necessary paperwork.
What do I need when riding the motorcycle?
To participate in the riding activities, the following is required:
Long denim pants or material of equivalent durability (no holes, cutouts, sweats, or tights). Gloves that cover the fingers and wrist. Sturdy shoes or boots that cover the ankle (no spike heels, platform shoes or cloth shoes). A long sleeve shirt or jacket. Eye protection (sunglasses, eye glasses, goggles, and/or face shield). Their are no lunch breaks, so bring a snack and plenty to drink! Rain gear if needed. We will ride rain or shine!
Yes, we provide motorcycles for the Basic Rider Course.
We provide helmets. If you bring your own DOT approved helmet, we require a full face or 3/4 helmet. You also need eye protection.
Do I get a copy of the Basic Rider Course Handbook?
Yes, you will be given a copy at the first class session, which is yours to keep, take notes, etc. You may view a PDF version on the RiderCourse Handbook online, before your classroom session.
What are the requirements to be eligible to take the Basic Rider Course?
Be in good health. Be proficient in riding a bicycle. Understand basic written and oral English. Have a valid drivers license or motorcycle permit. If you do not have a drivers license or motorcycle permit and are at least 15 years 6 months old, you are eligible to take the course if you have completed a 50 hour driver "driving" education program.
Is Westside Motorcycle Academy an approved MSF site?
Yes, WMA conducts the Basic Rider Course. We follow the Motorcycle Safety Foundation curriculum adopted by the California Motorcyclist Safety Program recognized by the California Highway Patrol and DMV.
We use 125 cc up to 250 cc training motorcycles.
Do I have to be a certain height?
We have no minimum height restrictions.
However, riders are required to be able to touch both feet to the ground while straddling the motorcycle. Riders must also be able to hold the bike up when stopping or walking the motorcycle. We have motorcycles with low slung seats suitable for people who need to be closer to the ground.
Can I ride my own bike (or scooter)?
Students can use their own motorcycle, as long as it is 500 cc or less. Current proof of insurance (minimum required by law) will need to be provided prior to riding on the range. The motorcycle must be in mechanically sound condition and approved by a RiderCoach on site.
Are course fees refundable or transferable?
No. Westside Motorcycle Academy enrollment fees are not refundable for any reason. If a student is late or does not attend any part of the classroom or two riding sessions, they forfeit their confirmed class and/or riding times to a standby student who is on time. Any student who shows up late or does not show for any reason may complete the course for free on a standby basis only within 90 days of the originally scheduled classroom date. Course fees are not transferable. Westside Motorcycle Academy reserves the right to refuse service to anyone.
What happens if I'm late or don't show for a class?
This is a state program and students are expected to be on time. If you are late to any portion of the course, you may lose your reservation to a standby. If you are late to a riding session or arrive without the required gear (i.e. sturdy over-the-ankle footwear) you will be asked to leave the range. If you are asked to leave, you can make-up the riding session on a stand-by basis (for up to 90 days from your classroom date) without penalty. There are no refunds.
Over ninety percent of students who enroll in the course pass the course. Not everyone completes the course the first time. If you self-drop or are counseled out by a RiderCoach, you may repeat the course (one time) at no additional charge on a stand-by basis only.
Will I have to go to the DMV for my license after I pass?
Yes. All licensing is done at the DMV. Upon successful completion of the class, you will be mailed a DL 389 certificate. The DL 389 certificate will waive the riding portion of your motorcycle license test at the DMV. The DL 389 certificate is mailed out 5-10 business days after you complete the course. Schedule your appointment with the DMV accordingly.
Can I take the course with an out of state license?
Yes. As long as your license is valid, you may take our course. Those individuals with an international drivers license must first go to the California DMV to obtain a motorcycle permit.
Do some companies reimburse you for classes?
Yes, some dealerships and manufacturers may offer a rebate program to encourage you to take a safety course. Once you complete our course, you are issued a MSF course completion card and a DL 389 certificate. A copy of your completion card serves as proof of class completion.
How about discounts on insurance?
Many insurance companies offer a discount for completing the Basic Riders Course. Your completion card will serve as proof of attendance.
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