Basic Rider Training

• For new riders or those looking for a basic refresher.
• Teaches fundamental riding skills and strategies to help reduce risk.
• About 13 hours of training.
• Includes the use of a school motorcycle (or scooter by request).
• Includes permit written and riding skills tests.
• Training locations in Tacoma, Steilacoom, and Olympia.

 Students must provide:

• US DOT compliant helmet
• Eye protection (glasses, goggles or face shield)
• Long sleeve shirt or jacket
• Long pants
• Full-fingered riding gloves
• Sturdy, over-the-ankle footwear offering adequate ankle protection (work boots, hiking boots, military boots, etc.)  
  • Canvas high-tops or slip-on boots with elastic or stretchy material over the ankle is not considered sturdy and will not be allowed
• Prepare for the weather (rain gear, sunglasses, snacks & drinks, etc.)
• A parent permission form if under the age of 18 prior to the first riding session

What is involved in the class?

While in this class, riders will learn the primary controls of a motorcycle and become confident with the fundamentals of starting, stopping, shifting, cornering and slow speed maneuvers. Riders will also learn basic hazard avoidance skills such as stopping quickly and swerving. In the classroom, we will have the opportunity to discuss choices we make as riders, strategies to reduce risk and ways to increase the enjoyment we get out of riding.

Is this course for true beginning riders?

Prior riding experience is not required. The Learn to Ride course is designed to accommodate the average beginning rider who does not know how to operate a motorcycle.

If you are unsure if the Learn to Ride course is right for you or you want additional time to prepare, consider the Intro to Riding (ITR) course as your first experience to riding a motorcycle. The ITR is an optional pre-training session designed to build confidence of the basics in a relaxed environment with smaller class sizes.

How does the schedule work?

We try to utilize as much daylight hours as possible for conducting classes. Each Learn to Ride course consists of 2 riding sessions along with 2 classroom sessions. Some classes start in the classroom while others start on the parking lot. You can see more information on our schedule page found here!

Our classes are only two days long to make it convenient:

• 2-Day Schedule 
  • Day 1: Full day (classroom, riding)
  • Day 2: Full day (classroom, riding)

Or

• 2-Day Schedule 
  • Day 1: Full day (riding, classroom)
  • Day 2: Full day (riding, classroom)

How much does the Learn to Ride cost?

The full cost varies by location and days of the week due to our costs associated by each location..  The schedule will show what the cost is for a particular course assuming you are a WA resident or active-duty military stationed here in Washington. If you are a non-resident or without a WA ID#, the price is $505 regardless of the price shown on the schedule. There is no difference in the course content between the $505 and the subsidized priced displayed on our schedule.  

What if I'm under 18 years old?

A training course is required by state law for anyone under 18 years old trying to obtain their motorcycle permit/endorsement. A parent or guardian will need to sign a waiver before you will be allowed to ride. This must be done at the beginning of class, in our office, or can be notarized prior to your training date. 

 How do I sign up?

1. Check the schedule for open availability. 
2. Once you find a training date you are interested in you may register. Or you can  
   • Call our office (253) 770-8888
   • In person at one of our branch offices (locations)

Where can I buy the riding gear that I need?

We recommend that you purchase gear from local motorcycle shops. 

Will I get a lunch break?

Throughout the course you will be given short breaks as well as a lunch break. Make sure you bring plenty of fluids and snacks. Learning to ride a motorcycle safely demands an alert mind. We would also recommend a good night’s rest before your course date.

What type of motorcycles will I be riding in this course?

The types of motorcycles will vary over time. However, here is a list of common bikes used at our locations.

• 250cc Honda Rebel (cruiser)
• 250cc Suzuki GZ250 (cruiser)
• 225cc Yamaha XT225 (dual-sport)
• 200cc Suzuki DR200 (dual-sport)
• 200cc Yamaha TW200 (dual-sport)
• 125cc Kawasaki Eliminator (cruiser)
• Scooters may be available at our Steilacoom location (if requested at registration on a first come first basis)

Can I ride my own motorcycle?

Yes. If your motorcycle meets all of the requirements of our training motorcycles and you have the necessary insurance, you may be permitted to ride your own bike. However, this is not common and should not be expected. Your bike will have to meet minimum requirements. 

You MUST check with our office for more information and approval.

What kinds of benefits are offered as a result of passing this training?

• Motorcycle permit along with a course completion card
• Cheaper insurance
• Dealership discounts & coupons
• Learn/Improve skills
• Greater confidence
• Information on riding gear
• Base access for military riders

Will I still have to take a test with the DOL to earn my permit?

No, the permit tests are included as part of the training course. Successfully passing both the permit written and skills evaluations earns you a completion card as well as an option to add your permit to your license as long as you add it within 365 days following the completion of your testing. We will upload your scores to the DOL system within 3 days of completing your course and you can then contact the DOL or apply online for your endorsement to be added.

 *Note* You will not be legal on the road until the endorsement is added to a valid license.

I do not have a driver license. Can I still take the course?

Yes. However, you still will have to register for a WA State ID# so we can upload your scores to the DOL assuming you pass the course. You have 180 days to get a valid license and have the motorcycle permit added should you choose.

I have a license from out-of-state. Can I still use the completion card to get a motorcycle permit?

Some states will honor the Course Completion Card as a way to get your permit/endorsement added to your license, however, some states will not. Please check with the Department of Licensing from your state to verify what requirements are necessary. You can always get a Washington State license and have the permit added, if needed.

I drive a sidecar or trike. Are there any courses for me?

Puget Sound Safety does not offer 3-wheeled motorcycle training courses, however there are other schools in Washington that do. Please check the Department of Licensing to find the closest school to you.

How can I get in sooner?

There are a couple ways to get in sooner. You may show up to any training date and if a student does not show for their class you may take their spot. Be prepared to fill out a registration form and make payment regardless if you are registered for another class. You will be refunded once the paperwork reaches our office. Another option is to buy your own private class. What this means is you would pay for 6 student spots and we would work around your schedule and get you trained at your convenience. Since you have paid for those spots, feel free to invite your family or friends to take it with you.

Do you have any cancellations?

We do not know when a cancellation will happen and are unable to keep a wait list due to the high demand. It is recommended to sign up in the next available spot and then call periodically asking for these possible spots.

Is there anything I can do to get ready for the Learn to Ride Course?

Nothing is required to be ready for this training with the exception of your riding gear. However, if you can’t wait and want to do something you may start reading the course handbook which can be found online as a read only. Motorcycle Operator Manual (PDF)

Other things you may choose to do. Get out and ride a bicycle, how long has it been since you balanced on a bicycle? This will help you in the beginning exercises on your motorcycle. Do you have a motorcycle? You may want to start learning where the controls are located and read how they operate. This will also help in the beginning activities, so you don’t have to think about them.