Motorcycle Safety Program FAQs

The cost at a GMSP Training site is $250 ($300 if out of state resident). The fee will vary at GMSP-approved private vendors.

No, GMSP training sites provide motorcycles and DOT-approved helmets. GMSP approved private vendors may not supply helmets.

Classes are offered year-round, but registration is required. Please visit GMSP Registration for online registration details.

An important segment of the course will show you how to create your own strategy for riding in traffic, and how to deal with critical situations. The course concludes with a knowledge test and an on-cycle skill evaluation. Successful completion of a course earns a graduate a 90-day Driver License Test Waiver.  The Georgia Department of Driver Services will waive the motorcycle licensing written test and on-cycle test with the waiver. It does not waive the vision exam or any fees. It is only valid for 90 days from the day the course ends.

The Experienced Course (ERC) is a one-day workshop designed to improve your skills in braking, evasive maneuvers, and turning. It provides the experienced motorcyclist with "street strategies" necessary for survival. The customer must provide their own motorcycle and a DOT-approved helmet. The cost is $100.00. The Out-of-state fee is $150.00. NO REFUND is given.

Advanced Rider Course (ARC) is a one-day course that focuses on the complex skills of self-assessment, personal risk management, and riding strategies. The Course is open to all experienced riders with a current motorcycle driver’s license. The rider will take their motorcycle through advanced riding techniques on the range. The course is conducted under the guidance of experienced Georgia Motorcycle Safety Program Coaches. The cost is $100.

Yes, students under the age of 18 that successfully complete the Basic Course earn a 90-day Driver License Test Waiver. However, to get their driver license, the student must be at least 17 years of age before the 90-day waiver expires. They must also comply with Joshua's Law Requirements.  Students under the age of eighteen will not be allowed to attend the course unless a parent or legal guardian is present at the first class session (no exceptions)! The parent or legal guardian will be required to sign a waiver form. 

In the BASIC Riders Course (BRC), you'll learn how to operate a motorcycle safely.  Emphasis will be placed on the special skills and mental attitudes necessary for dealing with traffic. Georgia Motorcycle Safety Program (GMSP) Coaches will start you off with straight-line riding, turning, shifting, and stopping. You'll gradually progress to cornering, swerving, and emergency braking. In the classroom, you'll learn about the different types of motorcycles, their characteristics, and how they operate. The GMSP Coaches, all experienced motorcyclists, will advise you on what to wear for comfort, visibility, and protection. You'll find out how alcohol and other drugs affect your ability to ride safely.

The Basic Riders Course is available for scooters as well.

• Students use their own scooters. No scooters are provided.
• Scooter engines must exceed 50cc and be less than 500cc.
• The scooter must be owned, registered, and insured by the student. Students must show current registration and insurance.  
• Scooters are subject to a safety check and must be street legal.  The safety check will cover:
  • Headlight, brake light, and turn signals.
  • Controls for proper function and adjustment. Note: Any adjustments of controls are the responsibility of the vehicle owner. Coaches cannot make adjustments, only recommendations for adjustments.
  • Obvious leaks of any kind.
  • Tires for proper tread (2/32 min.) and pressure.
  • Suspension for proper function.
  • Vehicle chassis for any functional damage.
  • Center/side-stand for proper function.
• If the scooter is going to be ridden to and from class, a Class MP permit is required.
  • Note: some classes are held after dark, and permit holders cannot ride after dark. Students can use a trailer or licensed (M Endorsement) operator to get the scooter to and from the training location.
• Scooter students must call GMSP at 678-413-8400 after registering.  Inform the staff of your intention to use your own scooter so we can notify your Coach. 

You will not be permitted to participate in the course unless you:

• Wear a DOT-approved helmet (provided during the course if needed).
• Wear eye protection (face shield, goggles, or glasses).
• Wear full-fingered gloves which allow good grip and control manipulation.
• Wear a long-sleeved shirt and/or jacket which covers the upper torso/arms.
• Wear sturdy pants which cover the entire leg in the seated position.
• Wear over the ankle footwear (no high-top sneakers).
• Be prepared to have a great time learning to ride.

For a full list of requirements, visit the Basic Riders Course webpage.