Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is a motorcycle endorsement required?
A: A motorcycle endorsement is required to legally operate a motorcycle or scooter on Montana's streets and highways. However, it is not required to legally operate an ATV.
Q: What are the restrictions of a motorcycle learner's permit?
A: Motorcycle learner's permits are good for one year and are non-renewable. A motorcycle learner's permit holder must be in immediate possession of the permit, under immediate & proximate visual supervision of motorcycle endorsed licensed adult driver, and is not allowed to carry passengers.
Q: What tests must be passed to obtain a motorcycle endorsement for a Montana driver's license?
A: A person must pass both a written test and a riding skills test. A Motorcycle Operator's Manual is available at any Driver Examination Station to help you prepare for these tests.
Q: Does a person that has successfully completed a motorcycle rider safety course taught by Montana Motorcycle Rider Safety need to take the tests to obtain a motorcycle endorsement?
A: Yes and no. The motorcycle riding skills test is waived for those people that successfully complete one of the Basic RiderCourses taught by Montana Motorcycle Rider Safety, but the written knowledge test is still required to obtain an endorsement.
Q: Is the riding skills test waived if the motorcycle rider safety course is taken and successfully completed in another state?
A: Drivers who complete the Motorcycle Safety Foundation Basic Rider Course (MSFBRC) outside the State of Montana may qualify for waiver of the motorcycle skills test to add the motorcycle endorsement to their license. See
this form for details.
Q: Is the riding skills test waived by other states with the successful completion of a motorcycle rider safety course taught by Montana Motorcycle Rider Safety?
A: Some states waive the riding skills test or knowledge test with proof of completion of a motorcycle rider safety course taught by Montana Motorcycle Rider Safety. Check with that state!
Q: How much does the course cost?
A: Basic RiderCoursesm: $175
Basic RiderCoursesm 2: $80
Advanced RiderCoursesm: $80
Q: How long does the course take?
A: The Basic RiderCoursesm (BRC) is a two-day course, and both days run from 8:00 a.m.—5:00 p.m.
The Basic RiderCoursesm 2 (BRC2) is a one day course from 8:00 a.m.—5:00 p.m.
The Advanced RiderCoursesm (ARC) is a one-day course from 8:00 a.m.—5:00 p.m.
Q: How do I pay for a course?
A: Payment is required at the time of registration, either by phone, mail or online. MMRS accepts Visa and MasterCard. If you prefer to pay with personal check, understand that your registration will not be complete until your registration form and check are received. Your seat in the course cannot be held while we wait for your payment to arrive.
Q: How do I register for a class?
Q: How do I cancel or reschedule a class?
A: To cancel or reschedule, you must contact MMRS at 1-800-922-BIKE.
Cancellation and rescheduling policy: you have paid for a reserved seat in a course. You must contact us at least seven days before your scheduled course to cancel or reschedule your reservation.
Q: Are there any health/physical requirements to take a course?
A: No. However MMRS courses can be physically demanding. You need to be able to balance and ride a bicycle. If you require accommodations related to a disability, please contact us prior to registering to discuss your needs at 1-800-922-2453.
Q: Does MMRS provide motorcycles and helmets?
A: MMRS provides training motorcycles. You must provide your own DOT approved helmet, MMRS is unable to loan due to Covid.
Q: Does MMRS have scooters available?
A: No. If you wish to use a scooter, you will need to provide your own and show proof of current registration and insurance to coaches the morning of your class.
Q: What is required for my scooter to be approved for use in the course?
A: Street legal tire tread—Functioning front and rear brakes
Properly inflated tires—Functioning cables
No leaking fluids—Working lights and electrical systems
Provide proof of registration and insurance
Q: If I pass the Basic RiderCoursesm or RiderCoursesm 2, do I still have to go to the DMV to get my license endorsed?
A: Yes. Present your completion card to the DMV. They will waive the skills (riding) test if you complete the BRC or BRC2. All that will be required of you is to take the written test. Upon completion of your written test the motorcycle endorsement will be added to your license for a fee.
Q: Is there a way for a group of friends , club or organization members to take a course together?
A: Yes with advanced coordination, classes can be set up for private groups based on availability. Please call 1-800-922-BIKE for more information.
Q: I do not see a course with an open seat on the weekend I am free. Can I put my name on a waiting list?
A: No, there is no waiting list. We operate on a first-come first-served basis. If you are registered for a class you can be put on standby for an earlier class, but you must be registered.
Q: I lost my course completion card. How do I get a new one?
A: If you took your motorcycle safety class in Montana and have lost your card, you will need to mail a check or money order for $10 made out to MMRS. Please send to the address listed below.
Include the following information legibly on a sheet of paper:
- Your name at the time the course was taken
- Your Driver's License Number
- Month, year and location course was taken
- Your current mailing address & phone number
Montana Motorcycle Rider Safety
MSU-Northern
P.O. Box 7751
Havre, MT 59501-7751
Q: Can I use my three wheeler in your classes?
A: No, our range & course curriculum is designed for two wheel motorcycles only.
Q: Can I receive college credit for completing a Motorcycle Rider Safety Course?
A: Students who register for a Basic RiderCourse® (BRC) in any location can receive one continuing education credit from MSU-Northern for an additional $150. Students taking the BRC for college credit must complete all exercises during the two days as well as pass both the knowledge test and skill evaluation test to receive a passing grade. For further information regarding how to apply for college credit, please call MSU-Northern Continuing Education at 406-265-3730. This course will fulfill an elective course requirement for the MSU-Northern Traffic Education Minor/Endorsement.
Contact Us
Montana Motorcycle Rider Safety
P.O. Box 7751
Havre, MT 59501
On the MSUN Campus:
Cowan Hall, Room 110
Phone: 1.800.922.BIKE
Fax: 1.406.265.3570
motorcycle@msun.edu
Q: Which course is right for me?
A: The Basic RiderCoursesm (BRC) is designed primarily for those who have limited or riding experience, or for those who have been away from riding for a number of years. The course includes classroom instruction and riding skills exercises. It begins with the basics of controls, turning, shifting and stopping.
The Basic RiderCoursesm 2 (BRC2) is designed for experienced riders with recent street riding experience in a variety of traffic situations - one year or 3,000 street miles is highly recommended. Even if you have been riding for years, there is always something new to learn to help you ride more safely and enjoy motorcycling more. The motorcycle riding skill test is waived for students that successfully complete the Basic RiderCoursesm 2.
The Advanced RiderCoursesm (ARC) is for a seasoned rider with several years of riding experience. This new course applies the handling techniques used by sport bike riders to your ride and real world street riding situations.