Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to have any riding experience?

It is not essential to have any riding experience. However, you need to have the ability to balance and stabilize a two-wheeled vehicle. If you have not ridden a bicycle in a long time, it would be a good idea to get some practice before attempting to ride a motorcycle.

What size/type of motorcycles does MRE, Inc. have?

MRE, Inc. uses several different types of street bikes and occasionally dual sport bikes. None of the bikes are over 250cc’s. There are different makes, such as; Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha and Kawasaki. Models may include (but not limited to); Rebels, Night Hawks, GN’s, GZ’s, DR’s, TW200’s, Eliminators and Viragos.

Is this course a requirement in California?

If you are under the age of 21, the answer is yes. Taking this course in CA is mandatory for all riders under the age of 21. Riders 21 years of age or over are NOT required to take this course. You have the option of going to the DMV and taking both the written and driving tests to obtain an M1 Driver’s License.

Will I feel out of place if I am older?

The average age of our students is 40-45 years of age.

Will I be the only female student?

Approximately 35% of our students are female.

Does everyone pass or am I guaranteed to pass?

This is a pass/fail course. You must attend all sessions and pass both a written test and a skill test on the motorcycle in order to pass. Approximately 89% of students pass.

*Some students discover during the course that this sport isn’t for them. Some students find that it may take them more than once through the course to be successful.

If I don’t pass the class what happens?

If a student does not pass the written or skill test, they will be invited back once more to complete the course. If a test is failed twice, the state requires that you go through the entire course again. If you choose to go through the course again after failing a test twice you will be charged full tuition.

I already took the written test at the DMV, do I need to take your classroom session?

Yes, the DMV written test is different and separate from ours. You must take the full course with MRE, Inc. and pass all tests in order to receive your DL389 Certificate.

Do I need to have a motorcycle permit to take the course?

No, you are not required to hold a motorcycle permit to take the course.

What is required to take the class?

You must have one of the following; a valid and unrestricted Driver’s License OR a valid Permit (class C or M) OR a Certificate of Completion of Drivers Education Training.

What do I need to bring to the course?

MRE, Inc. will provide the motorcycle. Helmets are also provided if you do not have your own. You must wear a D.O.T. approved helmet during the riding portion of your class. You must come to the riding portion with eye protection, a long sleeved shirt or jacket, full fingered leather gloves, long pants and sturdy over the ankle footwear (leather only, not canvas).

Does MRE, Inc. issue my motorcycle license once I complete the course?

No, only the DMV can give you a license to operate a motorcycle. If you pass the course, we will issue you a DL389 Certificate. You must take the DL389 Certificate to the DMV and complete the process there. You can not legally operate a motorcycle without a valid permit or license, the DL389 is NOT a permit or license. Please be aware that tuition for the Basic RiderCourse does not include DMV fees associated with obtaining your motorcycle license.

I am an experienced rider, why should I take this course?

Some of the students who say they got the most out of the class are experienced riders. This course teaches you the proper techniques for operating a motorcycle. Some experience riders may have developed improper habits and this course will help you correct them.

Will I really know how to ride a motorcycle after this course?

This course is designed to give you the basics of operating a motorcycle and teach you proper techniques. You will learn how to practice safely. How well you ride will be determined by how often you practice and how well you practice the techniques taught to you during the course.