Pennsylvania has a new law which requires 16 and 17 year olds seeking their motorcycle licenses to first complete Pennsylvania’s motorcycle safety training program.

The law, Act 84, requires young riders who are seeking motorcycle licenses to first complete the Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program’s (PAMSP) Basic Rider Course (BRC). This training course is offered at nearly 70 sites across the state and is free to Pennsylvania residents. It is a clear attempt to ensure that young motorcycle riders are given the basic tools and the knowledge to ride safely. Pennsylvania’s motorcycle safety training program was started in 1984 and the training is instrumental in improving riding skills.

The BRC provides an introduction to the fundamentals of safe and responsible motorcycle operation and consists of 15 hours of classroom and riding instruction (5 hours in the classroom and 10 hours on the course).

These 15 hours can be applied toward the 65 hours of on-the-road training required for riders under 18 years old who have a motorcycle learner’s permit.

Young riders who complete the course will be given a certificate-of-completion card. If they have completed all of the learners permit requirements they can be tested for their motorcycle license at the conclusion of the PAMSP training.

Christopher M. Pyne is a Shareholder and member of Stark & Stark’s Lawrenceville, New Jersey office, concentrating in Accident & Personal Injury Law.  For more information, please contact Mr. Pyne.