Frequently Asked Questions

What does your program do?
Our class teaches the student how to be a safe and responsible motorcyclist. Our MSF-approved Basic RiderCourse meets the Florida Department of Highway Safety Motor Vehicles requirements for you to receive a motorcycle endorsement on your license. Successful completion also entitles you to a membership in the Ride Safe Savings Network which can provide you with valuable savings on motorcycles, equipment and services from area vendors. Our course may also qualify you for insurance discounts depending on your provider.

Is the Suncoast’s Ride Safe Motorcycle Program "an approved" Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) site?
Yes. We are an approved Sponsor through MSF and State of Florida. We are conveniently located in central Pinellas County and our location is easily accessible from St. Petersburg, Pasco County and South Tampa.

Do I need a motorcycle  permit prior to enrolling in the Basic RiderCourse?
No, only a Valid Driver's license OR Driver's Permit

Will my out of state motorcycle endorsement transfer to Florida?
Yes, except from the state of Alabama who does not meet standards equivalent to what Florida requires.

What is the cost of the course?
The Basic RiderCourse cost is $225. Please be aware that tuition for the BRC does not include DHSMV’s fees associated with obtaining a motorcycle endorsement for your license.

How long is the course?
The Basic RiderCourse is a total of 15 hours which are broken into 5-hours of classroom instruction and two, 5-hour riding sessions on the driving range.

What do I need to bring and/or wear?
Please remember, it's your responsibility to have the appropriate attire to participate in the riding sessions.
Required Riding Attire:  

• Full length sturdy pants, NO SHORTS!
• Long sleeve shirt
• Over the ankle footwear (they can not be canvas, i.e. boots but not fashion boots with heels).
• Full fingered gloves, preferably leather
• Eye protection
• If you already have an approved DOT standard helmet, you are encouraged to bring it for your comfort. Your helmet must be ¾ to full face type to be worn on our range. If you do not have one, we will supply one for you, but please bring a do-rag (bandanna type rag) to wear.

If you aren't sure about your shoes or the rest of your riding attire, bring it to your first classroom session and ask your instructor for approval. Remember, there is no need to wear your riding gear to the classroom sessions. If you fail to meet these requirements on the day you ride, you will be sent home with no refund.
You should also bring:

• A snack. We will be working hard physically, and you will not be allowed to leave the range.
• Something to drink. We will be on the range for as much as 5 hours or more (depending  on weather and student skills)
• Sun protection (sunscreen, lip balm with SPF)
• Rain gear. We will continue our activities in the rain. If weather conditions become unsafe, the RiderCoach will stop the class.

How do I sign up for the course?
Please call our office at (727) 373-SAFE (7233) for registration. Our online registration will be available soon.

If I change my mind will I receive a full refund?
When you provide notice of cancellation 7 calendar days prior to your scheduled class, you will be refunded your course fee minus a $50 administrative charge. Cancellation less than 7 calendar days before the scheduled class will result in complete forfeiture of your total course fee. 

How much does it cost to reschedule a class?
If you would like to reschedule your class time, an administrative fee of $25 will be charged when notice is given at least 7 or more calendar days before the scheduled class begins. If you reschedule within 4 to 6 calendar days, an administrative rescheduling fee is $50 will be charged. Students who reschedule less than 3 days before a class begins, will be charged an administrative fee equal to 50% of the registration fee paid.

Do I get a copy of the Basic RiderCourse Handbook?
Yes, you will receive your own copy.

Do you supply the motorcycles for the  Basic RiderCourse?
Yes, we provide the motorcycles.

What size motorcycles do you use?
We use 125cc up to 250cc training motorcycles.

Do I need to have any riding experience or be a certain height?
It is not essential to have any riding experience and we have no minimum height restrictions. However, you must have the ability to be able to touch both feet on the ground while straddling a motorcycle and must be able to hold the bike up when stopping or walking the motorcycle. If you have not ridden a bicycle in a long time, it would be a good idea to get some practice before attempting to ride a motorcycle.

What if I arrive late to the classroom or to the riding range?
Classes begin promptly. If you arrive late, you will not be allowed to attend the class and/or the riding range session and you may jeopardize your ability to receive any refund. To avoid this problem, we recommend you arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the start of each class.

Will I get a license after the Basic RiderCourse?
You will receivea card certifying your successful completion of the course. This card can be taken to any Florida DHSMV or Tax Office location to obtain a motorcycle endorsement on your license. Please be aware that tuition for the BRC does not include any DHSMV fees associated with obtaining your motorcycle endorsement.

Will my insurance company award me a discount on insurance?
Many insurance companies offer a discount for successful completion of the Basic RiderCourse or the Experienced RiderCourse. To see if you qualify for a discount, we recommend you speak to your insurance provider.