Frequently Asked Questions
Who We Are
What does being approved by CMSP mean?
The instruction provided by a CMSP training site is monitored relative to program content, instructor credentials and competence, and adherence to the policies and procedures set forth by the CMSP under the direction of the California Highway Patrol (CHP). Each site is subject to several reviews each year to ensure that we are meeting the requirements and goals of the program.
What are the benefits of taking a class from a CMSP-accredited training site?
Upon successfully completion of the CMSP course you will receive a DMV licensing skills test waiver. If you are under 21 years of age and you want a California motorcycle license, you must successfully complete a CMSP basic training course.
Are the training instructors CMSP-approved too?
For an instructor to be certified by CMSP, they need a minimum of 50,000 riding hours under the belt, and all within 6 months, they need to complete MTC and IRC training, get fingerprinted, do CPR and first aid certification, and receive 5 days training from CMSP.
How to become a Team 2WST Instructor?
Visit the 'Our Team' page for more information.
Course and Classroom Questions
Where are the classes taught?
In private, paved locations with no interfering traffic. See our list of locations.
When are the classes?
Each training site has its own schedule. At TWST, we usually have training classes EVERY WEEKEND AND WEEKDAY.
How long is the basic (MTC) course?
The course consists of two classroom sessions and two riding sessions of approximately 16 hours total. The typical curriculum is:
- Classroom 1
- Range 1
- Classroom 2
- Range 2
Is the MTC course for beginners or for people who already know how to ride?
Both. Although the course starts out with the basics, the skills which are taught are those essential to safe riding. It is unusual for someone to complete the course without indicating improvements in their motorcyclist skills and awareness.
Are there other instances where I NEED to have the DL-389?
Aside from age and skills restrictions, there is another element to needing the DL-389. If your local DMV does not offer the bike skills test, then you will NEED the DL-389 proving this part of the exam.
What are the course content and materials?
Courses were developed by Total Control Training, Inc. and emphasize critical street skills and strategies for safe riding.
After I finish this course, will I be ready to ride?
After successful completion of the course, you will have been taught the basics of motorcycle riding. This is the starting place for new riders: you will need to continue practicing these skills to improve your chances of being a safe and confident motorcyclist.
How do I Register?
Choose your training location, then view available courses.
Locations:
- Newark Pavilion – 6430 Thornton Ave., Newark, CA 94560
- Ohlone College Fremont Campus – 43600 Mission Blvd., Fremont, CA 94539
- Gavilan College Gilroy Campus – 5055 Santa Teresa Blvd., Gilroy, CA 95020
- Ohlone College Newark Campus – 39399 Cherry St., Newark, CA 94560
What do you mean ‘successfully complete’ the course?
There are both written and riding examinations to verify your comprehension of the material which is covered in the basic course. Both of these examinations must be passed.
What if I am unable to pass or complete the course?
If you are counseled out for safety reasons, you must reschedule and take the class from where you left off at a discounted tuition rate. If you do not pass the skill evaluation or the written exam, you may schedule a retest. If you fail any portion of the training twice, you will be required to repeat the training from the beginning, per the CHP/CMSP policy. Returning students to TWST will pay a discounted rate. Please contact the office more details.
Course Requirements & Student Age
If I’m under 18 years old, can I enroll in the course?
If you are between 15.5 and 18 years old you will need the signature of a parent or legal guardian in order to take the course. Your parent or legal guardian will need to come to class with you to sign a waiver in the presence of a CMSP instructor, or other person associated with the site. A parent's notarized signature on the waiver is also acceptable. The waiver will be sent to you in an emailed packet after you register.
What if I am under 21?
Effective January 1, 2011 (AB 1952/Niello), this law requires a person under 21 years of age to complete a motorcycle safety basic training course at a California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP) training site in California before being issued a motorcycle instruction permit. Students under 21 must take their DL389 obtained from the training to the DMV immediately and acquire their motorcycle permit to practice operating a motorcycle for the required six months before being issued a class M license endorsement. Students under 21 must NOT surrender their DL389 to the DMV. The DL389 is ONLY surrendered to the DMV after the permit has been held for six months and when the motorcycle endorsement is being acquired. DL389 certificates are valid for 12 calendar months from the date issued.
What do I need to take the basic course?
Before the start of the first classroom you must provide:
- A current, valid, government issued photo ID. This may be issued from California, any State or any Country
- You are not allowed to take the class if you are operating under a restricted license
- Proper riding gear for the range session – Please review our Minimum Gear Requirements
What else do I need?
Long, sturdy pants; leather, “blue-jeans,” or denim only. Sturdy high top shoes or boots that cover the anklebone; fabric footwear is not permitted. Full-fingered gloves, with closed backs and no holes in them. Motorcycle specific gear that meets these requirement is strongly recommended. For a more complete description please refer to our course-information page and our minimum gear requirements.
Course Costs, Insurance and Other Discounts
What does it cost?
The rates for the basic course are $395 for under 21 and $425 for others. There is a difference in price because the State of California mandates that this course be taken in order for students under 21 to get their motorcycle license. Because of this, the State has elected to set the price at $395. Please check individual course page for cost variations.
Will taking this course help with my insurance?
Most companies that provide motorcycle insurance offer discounts with proof of completion of the courses approved by the CMSP.
What is the refund and other fee policies?
Please view our Course Policies page.
Questions About the Motorcycle
Where do I get the motorcycle and helmet for the course?
We provide you with both the motorcycle and helmet for the class. You may optionally use your own DOT-approved full-face helmet. If using your own motorcycle, the bike can be no larger than 350cc and it must be registered and insured.
What size are the motorcycles?
The motorcycles provided are usually from 125cc to 250 cc.
Can I take the course on a scooter?
Please contact our office for more information.
Licensing
What does it take to get a California motorcycle license after completing the course?
After successful completion of the basic course, you will be mailed a California DMV form DL389. With this form, after passing the DMV’s written motorcyclist examination, you will qualify for an M1 motorcycle endorsement. The form waives having to take the on-bike skills test with the DMV.
When do I get my DL-389 Certificate?
It is MAILED 3 to 5 days after class ends. Plus USPS mailing time, maximum is 10 days, usually less.