Learn to Ride Class
(includes Permit testing)
* For brand new riders with no experience.
Motorcycle provided. You must bring your own DOT approved helmet & gear.
Required gear: Long sleeve shirt/jacket, long pants, over the ankle sturdy boots/shoes, eye protection and full finger gloves.
Permit Level Knowledge and Skills test included with this class
If you have riding experience, please consider the Experienced Class instead
Who should take this class?
The Learn to Ride Class is designed for the entry level rider and is 15 hours (generally a 2 day format from 8am-5pm).
This class will provide the rider with knowledge, confidence and riding skills practiced in a safe, controlled environment.
After successful completion of both the permit level written and riding tests, students scores are electronically entered into the DOL computer system. Students then may go in person to the Driver Licensing office to purchase their motorcycle learner’s permit or use the new DOL “online services” page. https://www.dol.wa.gov/onlinesvcs.html Select: Replace your driver license/ID card
The next step: Purchase your permit and then register and come back to take either our Intermediate Class, Advanced Class or schedule an appointment for your Endorsement Level Knowledge and Skills Tests.
Classroom: (approximately 6 hours) Student handbook is the WA State Motorcycle Operator Manual. Sessions present text, lecture, hands-on activities and group discussions.
Covered Topics:
Risks and Responsibilities, Types of Motorcycles, Controls & Equipment
Basic Operation, Inspection & Maintenance
Street Strategies
> Positioning / Being Visible / Escape Paths / Mental Processing
Strategies for Common Riding Situations
> Intersections / Blind Spots / Lane Changes / Curves / Limited Space Maneuvers
> Freeway Merging and Exiting / Starting on a Hill / Obstacles / Parking / Passing
> Night Riding / Group Riding
Basics for Emergencies
> Braking Systems / Swerving / Emergency Stopping
> Front Tire Skid / Rear Tire Skid
Passengers/Cargo/Touring/Wind/Animals
Rider Impairments
> Alcohol / Drugs
State Licensing Information / Gear & Equipment Requirements
Range: (approximately 10 hours) Riding exercises begin with “this is a motorcycle” and slowly progress to slightly higher skills and techniques. Each new exercise provides the opportunity to combine a new skill with continued practice of previous skills learned. We begin with focus on posture, clutch control, proper use of brakes and directional control. Students slowly progress to more moderate speeds and skills throughout the course, preparing them for eventually riding safely in traffic.
Cost:
- $275 For WA State resident Must have a WA state ID#/Driver License#
- $375 Out of state resident, including military without a WA ID number.
Materials & Testing info:
The Knowledge (or written) test is multiple choice and questions come from the Dept of Licensing Motorcycle Operators Manual.
To study the handbook before class click the image to the right.
Additional info:
Out of state residents: will be issued a completion card that is accepted by Idaho DOL to waive your riding skills test, but they do require you to take their written test even after testing with us during the class.
Please be aware: Each riding activity and classroom segment must be completed with the class you are registered for in order to qualify for testing and a class completion card. Your tuition is for a reserved seat in a specific class. If you are unable to attend or do not complete the entire class, you are not eligible for testing. You may, however register to take the class again! You will be required to attend all portions of the class to graduate, including the portions you completed with a previous class.
Walk-in students are accepted. Please arrive early and if you have the required paperwork and riding gear you will be accepted into class. If our schedule shows the class as “full” you may still get in if a registered student does not show up. Tuition fee is required before joining the class.
Please note: Only registered students are allowed in the classroom and on the range.
