Basic Riding Courses in Ventura County and the High Desert
CMSP Motorcyclist Training Course
Learn to ride and get licensed!
We are part of the California Motorcyclist Safety Program and we are certified to teach the CMSP Motorcyclist Training Course (MTC). The MTC is mandatory for those under the age of 21, but is also recommended to those 21 and older who are seeking to obtain a motorcycle endorsement on their California driver license.
The Motorcyclist Training Course is designed for the novice rider with no (or limited) street-riding experience. A typical class schedule consists of 6 1/2 hours of classroom instruction and 10 hours of riding practice. During this motorcycle riding course, you will learn fundamental skills required to operate the motorcycle and progress to street riding skills and strategies. Even though the Motorcyclist Training Course was designed with new riders in mind, most experienced riders that have taken the course have reported improving their riding skills considerably with it!
Topics covered include managing fear, understanding how motorcycles turn, proper cornering strategies, and emergency crash avoidance skills. The course is based on the most current research in rider safety, and utilizes modern training methods.
Completion of our course may waive the DMV riding skills test
Upon successful completion of the Motorcyclist Training Course you will receive a DMV riding test waiver. There are written and riding evaluations after the course to ensure you have competence in the material covered in the basic course. You must pass both evaluations to graduate.
Course Fees
Under 21: $395
If you are under 21 this course is a requirement prior to taking your motorcycle permit written test. Upon successful completion you will earn a CA DMV DL389 Certificate. This certificate is required BEFORE taking the permit test at the DMV. This certificate will waive the skills test at the DMV. You will also receive a graduation card that may be used for insurance discounts. Contact your insurance agency for details.
21 And Over: $425
If you are 21 or over, this course is not a requirement. Upon successful completion of the course, you will receive a CA DMV DL389 Certificate, that will waive the skills test at the DMV. You will also receive a graduation card that may be used for insurance discounts. Contact your insurance agency for details.
IMPORTANT: Do not enroll in this class if you are not able to balance and comfortably ride a two-wheeled bicycle.
Terms and Conditions
Students must:
- Provide proper riding gear
- Be on time. Students arriving late to any portion of the class will not be allowed to participate and will not be refunded or rescheduled
Cancellations
- To cancel or transfer, students must notify Learn to Ride VC at least 5 business days before the start of the class
- If class is cancelled, you will be rescheduled at no extra cost to you (classes are held rain or shine).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Learn To Ride VC affiliated with any other site?
No. Learn To Ride VC is proud to be independently owned and operated. We are not affiliated with any other site.
How old do you have to be to take the course?
You must be a minimum of 15 1/2 years of age.
How long is the course?
The course is 16 1/2 hours (minimum) in duration. It is broken up into 6 1/2 of classroom instruction, and 10 hours of practical riding in a controlled off-street range.
Do I need a license to take the course?
In order to participate, you must have one of the following:
A valid drivers license or permit, OR a valid government issued ID.
What kind of bikes will we ride? Can I use my own bike?
We offer a wide variety of makes and models that are 125-250cc's. You may use your own motorcycle in the class, but it must meet two of three criteria: 300cc or less, 425 lbs or less, and a seat height of 32" or less. Your motorcycle will be inspected for approval and you must also show proper registration and insurance documents.
What if I only want to ride a scooter?
California requires an M1 license for all motorcycles and scooters. You can use your own scooter in class as long as it meets the same criteria as training motorcycles (300cc or less, 425 lbs or less, and a seat height of 32" or less). Your scooter will be inspected for approval and you must also show proper registration and insurance documents.
Does Learn To Ride VC issue my motorcycle license?
No, we do NOT issue the motorcycle license. Upon successful completion, we issue the DL389 certificate, which may waive the skills test at the DMV for anyone 18 years of age or over. For anyone under 21 years, this certificate is what you will need to take to the DMV prior to taking the permit test.
How long is my DL389 certificate valid?
Your certificate is valid for exactly one year. You will need to redeem it at the DMV within that time, otherwise it will expire. We cannot reissue expired DL389 certificates.
Who takes the basic course?
The Motorcyclist Training Course (MTC) is a beginner course. However, many experienced riders, and riders who have taken time off of motorcycling will often take the course. Your fellow students will be all different ages, genders, and levels of experience. The course is for everyone, and everyone is welcome!
Are all Total Control courses part of the CMSP?
Only the Motorcyclist Training Course (MTC) is part of the CMSP. Other Total Control courses, such as the Intermediate Advanced, and Refresher Training, are additional course offerings and have no affiliation with the CMSP. You will not receive a DL389 certificate when taking these courses.
Who teaches the course?
Our instructors are experienced motorcyclists who are certified through the CMSP Contractor, Lee Parks Total Control, and will guide you every step of the way.
Can my friend or family member watch?
While we would love to let everyone come cheer you on, we must abide by the guidelines of the course, which do NOT allow spectators.
What gear do I need?
Learn To Ride VC will provide a motorcycle and a full face helmet at no additional charge. You will need to have your own leather boots that cover your ankles, full-finger leather gloves, jeans, and a long sleeve shirt or jacket. The gear does not need to be motorcycle specific, but does need to meet the above requirements.
Will you have my size helmet?
We've got you covered with a variety of clean, full-face helmets, ranging from size XS to XXXL.
Do you offer refunds?
Your tuition is NON-REFUNDABLE. You should verify that you are available for the dates and times that you are registering for BEFORE you book your course.
Can I be late to any portion of the course?
NO. In order to receive your DL389 Certificate, you must attend every minute of every session that you are scheduled for. You must be on time to enter the classroom with your instructor and riding group. You will not be allowed to attend the course if you are late. NO EXCEPTIONS.
Am I guaranteed to pass the course?
Neither passing nor getting a license is guaranteed. In the event that you do not pass the written and/or riding portion of your course, you may return to retest the necessary portion(s) one time, free of charge.
Will I get an insurance discount?
Many insurance agencies will offer a discount on your motorcycle insurance if you have successfully completed a rider course. Ask your insurance agent for details.
What if I need special assistance?
We are here to help you! Please call our office so that we may assist you.
Do you offer intermediate or advanced courses?
Yes. We currently offer the Total Control Training Intermediate Riding Clinic as well as the Total Control Training Advanced Riding Clinic.
