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- FAQs by course
- FAQs on licensing
- FAQs on AMS policies
Basic RiderCourse
Can I bring my own motorcycle for the course?
No. Students are required to ride the school training motorcycles.
What happens when it rains?
Typically we ride. It is recommended that you bring rain gear if the forecast calls for rain. Generally when it rains it is for a short period of time and we enjoy the coolness.
What will I learn?
In the Basic RiderCourse, you will learn:
To have more fun by riding your motorcycle safely.
The basics: what to wear, how to start and stop your motorcycle, and motorcycle controls.
Street strategies to avoid trouble and stay safe.
How to maneuver your motorcycle in tough situations.
Swerving, avoiding collisions, special situations,
lane changes, passing, and avoiding hazards.
How long is the class?
The Basic RiderCourse is a 14 to 15 hour program, which provides classroom and actual motorcycle operator training in a controlled, off-street environment.
What experience must I have?
No experience is necessary; a good sense of balance is required (you must be able to ride a bicycle).
What are some of the topics covered?
Here's a short list of some of the topics covered in the course.
Introduction to motorcycling
Protective gear / What to wear
Controls such as the clutch and brakes
Pre-ride inspection of your motorcycle
Preparing to ride your motorcycle on the class range
Street strategies to avoid trouble and stay safe
Driving and riding impairments such as use of alcohol and drugs
How to maneuver your motorcycle
Avoiding obstacles
Lane changes
Passing
Riding at night
Collision avoidance skills
Swerving
Special situations
Carrying a passenger or cargo
Dealing with tire failure
Dealing with animals
And other topics, all included to increase your motorcycle riding enjoyment and safety.
What do I need to wear?
Examples of eye wear are sunglasses, prescription glasses, goggles and shields. If you choose to use a shield as eye wear then the shield must be covering the eyes when you are on the motorcycle.
Sturdy boots that fit over the ankle are required. It is recommended that the boot soles be made of a non slip rubber or neoprene and the footwear should not have high heels, dangling laces or strings.
Long pants with no tears or holes, long sleeve shirt or jacket, to the wrists.
A DOT apporved helmet. Helmets are provided, if you bring your own it must be DOT apporoved.
Will the course help with insurance?
Qualifies graduates for insurance premium discounts with some motorcycle insurers.
Experienced RiderCourse
How long is the course?
One-half day
Do I use my own motorcycle?
Yes, you use your own motorcycle and helmet. Using your own motorcycle, you'll put into practice the techniques of managing traction, stopping quickly, cornering and swerving.
Will the course help with insurance?
Qualifies graduates for insurance premium discounts with some motorcycle insurers.
I've been riding for years, why should I take the course?
Even if you've been riding for some time, there's always something new to learn. Increasing numbers of seasoned riders are flocking to the half-day Experienced RiderCourse to hone their skills and fine-tune the mental skills needed for survival in traffic.
What will be covered?
You'll discuss with your peers how to balance the mental and physical aspects of safe riding, manage risk, increase visibility and optimize your lane position. The 'Experienced RiderCourse' also covers protective gear, rider responsibility, motorcycle inspection and care, the effects of alcohol and other drugs on riding, and includes an optional skill evaluation and knowledge test.
Scooter Basic RiderCourse
Can I bring my own scooter for the course?
No. Students are required to ride the school training scooter.
What happens when it rains?
Typically we ride. It is recommended that you bring rain gear if the forecast calls for rain. Generally when it rains it is for a short period of time and we enjoy the coolness.
What will I learn?
In the Scooter Basic RiderCourse, you will learn:
To have more fun by riding your scooter safely.
The basics: what to wear, how to start and stop your scooter, and scooter controls.
Street strategies to avoid trouble and stay safe.
How to maneuver your scooter in tough situations.
Swerving, avoiding collisions, special situations, lane changes, passing, and avoiding hazards.
How long is the class?
The Scooter Basic RiderCourse is a 14 to 15 hour program, which provides classroom and actual motorcycle operator training in a controlled, off-street environment.
What experience must I have?
No experience is necessary; a good sense of balance is required (you must be able to ride a bicycle).
What are some of the topics covered?
Here's a short list of some of the topics covered in the course.
Introduction to scooters
Protective gear / What to wear
Controls
Pre-ride inspection of your scooter
Preparing to ride your scooter on the class range
Street strategies to avoid trouble and stay safe
Driving and riding impairments such as use of alcohol and drugs
How to maneuver your scooter
Avoiding obstacles
Lane changes
Passing
Riding at night
Collision avoidance skills
Swerving
Special situations
Carrying a passenger or cargo
Dealing with tire failure
Dealing with animals
And other topics, all included to increase your scooter riding enjoyment and safety.
What do I need to wear?
Examples of eye wear are sunglasses, prescription glasses, goggles and shields. If you choose to use a shield as eye wear then the shield must be covering the eyes when you are on the motorcycle.
Sturdy boots that fit over the ankle are required. It is recommended that the boot soles be made of a non slip rubber or neoprene and the footwear should not have high heels, dangling laces or strings.
Long pants with no tears or holes, long sleeve shirt or jacket, to the wrists.
A DOT apporved helmet. Helmets are provided, if you bring your own it must be DOT apporoved.
Will the course help with insurance?
Qualifies graduates for insurance premium discounts with some scooter insurers.
Advanced RiderCourse
Do I ride my own motorcycle?
Yes. Using your own motorcycle and helmet, you’ll put into practice the techniques of managing traction, stopping quickly, cornering and swerving.
How long is the course?
A one-day course for riders with basic skills, this class provides more in-depth riding techniques and procedures than practiced in the BRC.
Military Sportbike RiderCourse
Who is the MSRC for?
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s Military SportBike RiderCourseSM, developed in close collaboration with the U.S. Navy and U.S. Army safety centers, is now available to all branches of the Department of Defense.
What is the time breakdown for the course?
The one-day course consists of approximately three hours of classroom interactive lessons and four hours of on-cycle range time, and is taught by instructors (RiderCoaches) who receive additional training and special MSF certification to teach the course.
What does the classroom consist of?
The classroom segment focuses on the behavioral aspects of riding such as attitude and personal risk assessment, and includes discussions about braking proficiency, cornering techniques, traction management, and characteristics unique to sport bikes.
What does the riding portion consist of?
The hands-on range session builds on these topics by providing riders the opportunity to develop and improve skills in braking, cornering and swerving.
Dirtbike School
What can you tell me about DirtBike School?
The MSF DirtBike School is owned and managed by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. MSF coordinates, endorses and supports delivery of the MSF DirtBike School through individual DBS Retailer Operated Courses, DBS Coaches and other organizations and events.
Where can I find a DirtBike School?
Log onto our website under DBS Locations and locate a school near you. You may also call our referral line for current locations. That number is 877.288.7093.
Do I need my own Motorcycle and Riding Gear?
No. In most cases, there are dirt bikes and riding gear available for your use in the class. Contact the DirtBike School you will be attending for exact details.
How long does the class last and what will we be taught?
Classes last about six hours. Come prepared to learn how to conduct a pre-ride inspection, basic riding techniques, mental strategies and environmental awareness.
What does DirtBike School cost?
Prices vary depending on the provider. The tuition for Arkansas Motorcycle Safety DirtBike School is $100. Please check with the DirtBike School you will be attending for these details.
What materials will be given to students?
Students that successfully complete a course will at a minimum receive an MSF DirtBike School completion card and the Tips and Practice Guide for the Off-Highway Motorcyclist booklet; riders under 16 will also receive the Parents, Youngsters and Off Highway Motorcycles booklet.
Are there class size requirements?
Yes, as follows:
Ages 6 - 11: maximum of 4 students.
Ages 12 - 15: maximum of 6 students.
Ages 16 and older: maximum of 8 students.
Note: Ages 6 - 11 cannot be taught with other age groups except in family/group classes.
Can a six year old child really ride a dirt bike?
Yes, children are often the safest students because they don't have any pre-existing "bad riding habits." An experience like riding a dirt bike can give a child self-confidence that will spill over into other areas such as school and team sports.
Will I be taught to race?
No, but you will be taught the skills necessary to safely ride an off-highway motorcycle. Where that takes you is up to you.
I have never ridden a street motorcycle before. Should I take a Dirt Bike course first?
That is a great idea. You will learn how to shift, balance, maneuver, and stop a motorcycle, plus some mental skills to help keep you safe. This will be a huge asset if you decide to take the MSF Basic RiderCourse for street motorcycles.
Is there a more advanced course available?
Yes, in some areas there are Trail Coaches that conduct additional courses. We at Arkansas Motorcycle Safety offer a wide variety of courses that fit just about any level of riding experience.
ATV RiderCourse
Can I send my kids?
Definitely. The ATV RiderCourse is a great way to get your kids off to a safe start. A parent must be present for riders under 12. A parent should be present for riders under 16.
How much does it cost?
Maybe nothing if you recently purchased a new ATV. Call ATV Enrollment Express toll-free at 1-800-887-2887 to find out if you are eligible for free training. If you are not eligible for free training, you may take the ATV RiderCourse for a small fee.
Do I Use My Own ATV?
Yes. If you don't have one yet, you may be able to make specific arrangements to have an ATV available at the training site.
What is the "Try Before You Buy" program?
If you take the ATV RiderCourse, and subsequently purchase an ATV, you may be entitled to a full refund of the cost of the course as well as additional incentives from the Manufacturer. Call ATV Enrollment Express toll-free at 1-800-887-2887 to find out more.
What Should I Bring?
You must wear the proper riding gear at all times during training. Bring the following:
• DOT-approved motorcycle helmet
• Goggles or face shield
• Over-the-ankle boots
• ATV or motorcycle gloves
• Long pants
• Long sleeve shirt or jacket
For more on proper riding gear, check out the working rider and recreational rider.
What is the riding area like?
Riding areas around the country differ somewhat, but they all include specific Stations. At each station on the riding range, you will learn specific skills. For an idea of what you will do at each station, see our ATV RiderCourse Riding Range.
Sounds Great! How do I enroll?
Call the ATV Enrollment Express toll-free at 1-800-887-2887. They can tell you where the nearest ATV RiderCourse is and enroll you on the spot.
Total Control Advanced Rider Clinic
Do I need a motorcycle license to take the Total Control classes?
Yes. This class is for riders that already have a current drivers license with a motorcycle endorsement. Total Control classes do not teach beginning riders how to operate or ride a motorcycle. Total Control is not associated in any way with the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. The course does not prepare students for taking any driving tests for the purposes of obtaining a motorcycle license, nor does it provide a waiver from taking any state motorcycle riding tests.
Do I have to bring my own motorcycle to the class?
Yes. Students must provide their own motorcycles for the class. Motorcycles used for the range exercises must be street-legal and have current registration. In addition, students must have a motorcycle insurance policy in force. Students must provide insurance policy and license (tag) numbers at the start of the class.
What kind of motorcycle do I need for the class?
Virtually any street legal motorcycle can do the class. We have taught students on a wide variety of bikes ranging in size from 250cc to 2,000ccs or more.
I ride a sportbike, what am I going to get out of riding in a parking lot?
More than you'd imagine. The range exercises provide a laboratory where you can examine your technique under a microscope. You can improve your cornering technique in a reduced-risk, controlled environment with instant instructor feedback. While the class is focused on street riding, many of our students also participate in track days. In addition, road racers have taken the class to improve their cornering skills and lower their lap times.
Is Total Control a race or a racing school?
No. The class is targeted for street riders of all types of motorcycles. Only one motorcycle is allowed on the range at the same time, there is no timekeeping, and it is not a competition. However, if you are interested in competition, this is an ideal course to prepare you for participating in a track day.
I ride a heavy cruiser, Gold Wing or full touring rig with floor boards. What can I get out of the class?
The opportunity to expand your limits. Many touring riders fear dragging hard parts or do drag parts in higher speed turns. Our curriculum will show you how to use body position to avoid, or minimize touching down when going through a turn. This will allow you to either travel faster through a given radius turn, or more importantly allow you to turn tighter in an emergency situation.
I've only been riding a short time. Can I take the Total Control, Level I class?
Total Control, Level I class is for experienced riders.Our minimum requirement is 3,000 miles of street riding experience. You must be comfortable with the basic operation of your motorcycle including; up and down shifting, controlling the throttle, braking and turning at normal street riding speeds.
What type of riding gear do I need to take a Total Control class?
Protective riding gear is required during the range exercises. Protective gear includes; a riding jacket (or mesh jacket), riding pants (leather chaps or mesh pants are OK), gloves, boots that cover the ankle and a DOT approved helmet (full faced helmet is recommended but not required). Jeans and fingerless gloves are not allowed, but Kevlar jeans will be accepted. DOT race compound tires are not recommended.
Do I need to do anything to my motorcycle prior to taking a Total Control class?
Your motorcycle should be well maintained. This includes the following:
Your tires should have sufficient tread (at least 3mm). Air pressure will be checked before the class starts./li>
Your bike should not overheat while stopped with the motor running on a hot day.
On liquid cooled bikes, check the coolant level.
Check the engine oil level.
Your charging system must function properly, and a relatively new battery is highly recommended because you will be starting the bike frequently.
Make sure your brakes are in good working order.
No motorcycles with leaking fluids will be allowed on the range. This includes: engine oil, transmission fluid, gasoline, engine coolant, brake fluid or anything else that may leak from a motorcycle.
Absolutely no race tires or race compound tires are allowed even if they are DOT approved. These tires will not get hot enough to maintain traction during the class.
My motorcycle has an aftermarket exhaust system. Is that a problem?
Some Total Control locations are sensitive to loud exhaust noise. If you are using the factory installed stock exhaust system, exhaust noise will not be an issue. If you have an aftermarket exhaust and you want to know how loud is too loud, call the training site where you want to sign up for more information.
How much of the Total Control, Level I class is in the classroom vs. on the range?
The TCARC is 40% classroom and 60% range exercises. The classroom secessions are spread throughout the day. This gives riders a chance to rest, a necessity when the weather is hot.
How is the Total Control, Level I class taught?
Total Control, Level I consists of six modules. These exercises include; throttle/brake transitions, mental state, corner vision, corner entry and line selection, mid-corner body position & corner exits, corner transitions (figure 8's) and basic motorcycle suspension. There is a 10-minute break between each module and a 40-60-minute break.
What are the Total Control, Level I range exercises like?
Level I range exercises are practiced on 40-foot circles. Two pairs of 40-foot circles (marked using small rubber traffic cones) accommodate six students each. New skills introduced for each exercise builds on the previous exercise. The first couple of range exercises are deceptively simple and form the basis for the more challenging exercise later in the day.
How long is the class and what about lunch?
Total Control classes are eight-hours in length with an hour for lunch. Class starts at 8:00am and finishes around 5:00pm. A 40-60 minute lunch break takes place about noon. Please bring your own lunch and a snack if you like. Bottled water will be provided at some sites. (Please contact the Total Control site where you will be taking the class for more details)
How many students are in a Total Control class?
Total Control, Level I and II classes can have 6 to 36 students depending on where you take the class. The instructor to student ratio is one instructor for each group of six students. Only one student at one time is allowed on the range and is always supervised by an instructor.
What happens if it rains?
Total Control classes (both level I and II) will be held in light rain. . If several days prior to the class the weather looks questionable the class may be canceled. Individual Total Control training sites will vary in their policies regarding weather related class cancellations, rescheduling or refunds. Please contact the training site where you are taking the class for details.
What about Total Control training site liability insurance?
All of the Total Control locations have liability insurance by the top carrier in the nation for training sites. This insurance coverage is only for liability risks while you are participating in a Total Control class. You must have your own insurance policy for the motorcycle you are riding. Please have the policy number and name of your insurance company with you when you arrive at class.
What qualification do the Total Control instructors have?
All Total Control instructors have received intensive training. In addition to the formal training, instructors are supervised by a certified master instructor until they are comfortable with teaching the class by themselves. Instructors must have at least five years of riding experience. Refresher courses are given on an annual basis.
Do Students get a certificate after taking a Total Control class?
Yes.Each student will be mailed a certificate with their name on it after taking the class.
When are the Total Control classes held?
It depends on the site and their location. Please see the schedule page for specifics. Most Total Control sites hold classes from April through September, but sites in warmer climates may have winter classes as well.
Can I bring my spouse/significant other as passenger? We'd like to take the class as a couple.
Yes, provided you and your passenger have already established comfort and trust. We have taught rider/pillion couples, and all the lessons apply equally to one-up or two-up riding. There may be a charge for the passenger, depending on location. Call the site location for more details.
I loved the Total Control, Level I class. Is there a Level II class?
Yes. Total Control, Level II classes will be offered at some sites (see schedule). As more Total Control instructors become trained to teach Level II, more classes will be available. Total Control Advanced Riding Clinic, Level II starts where the Level 1 class left off. Included are more challenging exercises from the best-selling book Total Control plus some exciting new ones that will allow students to take their riding to a whole new level. Hard braking, trail braking, speed shifting (both up and down), decreasing radius turns, bike setup and more will be featured in this follow-up to the most effective advanced riding curriculum on the market.
Additional Courses
Additional Riding Time & Training
Additional riding & training time is available for students who want additonal coaching after they have completed one of our courses. The BasicRider Course or Experienced RiderCourse must be completed before any additional riding or training. Please contact us for more information.
Private Instruction
In this course, you and a RiderCoach will work one-on-one in either beginning riding (BRC) or advanced riding (ERC). The cost is $350.
Group Riding
In this class you will learn and participate in riding with others on the open road. You will learn what is needed to be a Road Captain, how to plan a ride, and how to communicate with others in the ride.
Trailering
This course teaches the fundamentals of towing a trailer with your motorcycle. It involves both classroom and range activities.
Co-Rider
Here you will learn what you need to know while riding on the back seat of the motorcycle including procedures used during normal riding and abnormal circumstances.
Trike and Sidecar
If your machine has three wheels, this course will teach you the special techniques needed to safely maneuver. There are classroom and range activities employed in this course.
Do I need a helmet?
Although Arkansas does not mandate motorcycle helmet use for riders or passengers 21 years of age or older, we strongly recommend wearing DOT-approved helmets as well as protective body wear, boots and gloves.
What other laws do I need to know?
Arkansas law states that all persons must obey the following regulations while operating a motorcycle or motor-driven cycle.
1. All operators and passengers must wear eye protection in the form of protective glasses, goggles, or transparent face shield. Protective headgear must also be worn by persons under twenty-one years of age.
2. The headlight and taillight must be on at all times, day or night, when the motorcycle is in operation.
3. The operator will not carry a passenger unless there are footrests and handholds for the passenger. There can be only one passenger. No driver under the age of sixteen years is allowed to carry a passenger.
4. Operators must obey all traffic laws at all times.
Do I need a motorcycle license?
Under Arkansas OMV guidelines, anyone who drives a motorcycle must have a Class M motorcycle license or motorcycle instruction permit.
How is the age requirement?
Applicants must be 16 years of age, pass the motorcycle knowledge test, a sign test and a vision screening. The final step is to pass the motorcycle skills test where you will demonstrate your competency in motorcycle operation.
Do I have to take the test at the OMV?
Arkansas will waive your skills test and issue you a license if you complete an approved basic motorcycle rider safety course within ninety days prior to application. When you successfully complete this course, you will be eligible for your motorcycle driver's license without having to take your state's road test.
What testing must be completed at the OMV?
Arkansas OMV requires that all applicants must pass a written motorcycle knowledge test on traffic signs, motor vehicle laws and safe driving techniques.
What are the pretesting conditions?
Before any part of the operator test will be given, the following conditions must be met:
1. There must be a plate or factory-installed decal showing the engine displacement in cubic centimeters. If one is not on the motorcycle, then other proof must be furnished.
2. The motorcycle must be brought to the testing station, either by a licensed operator or hauled in another vehicle. The person seeking the license cannot ride it to the testing site unless the applicant possesses a valid instruction permit for a motorcycle.
3. If the person seeking the license is under 18 years old, the applicant must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian to sign the application.
Is there an inspection involved?
Before the road test, the motorcycle will be inspected to see that it is equipped in the following manner
1. Registration certificate and license plate mounted on the rear chassis properly
2. Proof of Insurance
3. At least one, no more than 2, headlights which emit a white light to the front of the motorcycle at least 500 feet in darkness
4. A red reflector on the rear that can be seen from at least 100 feet
5. A red tail light on the rear in addition to the red reflector that can be seen from at least 500 feet
6. A horn that works. No bell, siren, or whistle is allowed
7. A standard muffler
What will I need to get my License?
All applicants making an initial application for an Arkansas driver license must show proof of legal presence in the United States. Before testing can begin, the applicant must provide one of the following documents:
• U.S. Birth Certificate
• U.S. Passport
• U.S. Visa
• Social Security Card (No metal cards)
• Photo INS document (except Border Crosser)
• Photo Military/ Military Dependent ID
• Naturalization Certificate
All Applicants for an Arkansas License must show proof of identification before testing can begin by providing either:
• An Arkansas Driver License
• Two Primary Documents
• One Primary and One Secondary Document
Primary Documents
• An Arkansas Photo ID issued by the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration, Office of Revenue
• Out of State Driver License or State Issued Photo ID
• Birth Certificate (If foreign, must have notarized translation)
• Photo INS Document (except Border Crosser)
• Passport (If foreign, INS Card or U.S. Visa required)
• Naturalization Certificate
• Court Order (Must contain full name, date of birth & court seal)
• Military/Military Dependent Photo ID
• Draft Registration Card
• Armed Forces Discharge Papers
Secondary Documents
• Photo Medicaid Card
• Employment or School Photo ID
• Social Security Card (No metal cards)
• Vehicle Registration/Title
• Bureau of Indian Affairs/Indian Treaty Card (No Tribal Cards)
• Marriage License
• Health Insurance Card
• IRS/State Tax Forms (W-2 Form is not acceptable)
• Court Order (Date of birth not present)
• Medical Records (From doctor or hospital)
• Concealed Handgun License
• Certified School Transcript
• Pilot’s License
• Parent’s Affidavit (Parent must appear in person, prove his/her identity and submit notarized affidavit of child’s identity. Applies to minors only)
• Court Records
• Prison Release Documents
What is the Class M License?
This license is a non-restricted license issued to persons sixteen years of age or older to operate a motorcycle on public roadways. The applicant must possess a valid Instruction Permit indicating successful completion of the required knowledge, vision, and skills tests. The motorcycle skill tests can be waived for an applicant successfully completing a Motorcycle Safety Foundation Riders Course within ninety days prior to application.
What is the Class MD License?
This license is a restricted license issued to persons between fourteen and sixteen years of age. The applicant must possess a valid Instruction Permit indicating successful completion of knowledge, vision, and skills tests. The motor-driven skill tests can be waived for an applicant successfully completing a Motorcycle Safety Foundation Riders Course within ninety days prior to application. A person possessing a Class MD License is restricted to operat- ing motorcycles displacing 250cc or less.
What is the Motorized Bicycles Certificate?
This certificate is a restricted certificate issued to persons ten years of age or older. A person possessing a Motorized Bicycle Certificate is restricted to operat- ing motorized bicycles or motorcycles displacing fifty centimeters or less. The applicant must successfully complete knowledge, vision, and skills tests. The Motorized Bicycle Certificate skill tests can be waived for an applicant successfully completing a Motorcycle Safety Foundation Riders Course within ninety days prior to application. A person possessing a Class A, Class B, Class C, Class D, Intermediate, Learner’s, Class M or Class MD License can legally operate a motorized bicycle or motorcycles displacing fifty cubic centimeters or less.
The course fee is non-refundable and required prior to the class session to reserve your place in the class.
If it is necessary for the student to reschedule, the office must be contacted by fax 501-664-8191 or phone 501-664-7465 no less than three (3) business days prior to the first class session in order to receive credit towards another class session. A student who does not show up for class, or who leaves during any part of the class for any reason, forfeits their entire fee and must pay the full fee again to reschedule another class. Students arriving after the stated start time of the class session will not be admitted to the class and will be required to pay the full fee again to reschedule for another class session. Arkansas Motorcycle Safety assumes no responsibility for classes missed as a result of student illness or other emergencies / events beyond it's control.
Please call or email the office for class confirmation, payments, and mailing address information. We accept Visa, Mastercard (credit and debit), cash over the phone, at the office, or by mail. Telephone: 501-664-7465. Please call or email the office for class confirmation, payments and mailing address information.
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