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Ohio Motorcycle Safety Course: What You Need to Know

Learn everything you need to know about the Ohio motorcycle safety course, including benefits, requirements, and how to enroll for safer riding.

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An Ohio motorcycle safety course can help you earn your Ohio motorcycle license — and take advantage of impressive insurance discounts. No matter what your level of motorcycle experience is, a motorcycle rider training course will benefit you on the road for years to come.

Introduction to Ohio Motorcycle Safety Courses

While a motorcycle safety course in Ohio is not required for most drivers, it is recommended for everyone operating a motorcycle, from new drivers all the way up to experienced riders. Regardless, you must have a valid motorcycle permit or motorcycle license to operate either a motorcycle or motor scooter in the state.

Ohio motorcycle rider safety courses incorporate both classroom time/work and riding sessions to support a wealth of safe driving practices when you are operating a motorcycle.

Who Needs To Take the Ohio Motorcycle Safety Course

If you are under the age of 18, you must take an approved Ohio BMV motorcycle safety course. Again, this safety course is recommended for all motorcycle operators to ensure safety for both drivers and others on the road. The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) oversees motorcycle and car licensing.

Motorcycle safety levels can vary, and a safety-focused course can help you prepare for various situations when you eventually ride your bike on the open road.

Benefits of Completing a Motorcycle Safety Course

There are many benefits to completing a motorcycle safety course in Ohio, including:

  • You will learn more about driving risks and strategies for managing those risks when on a motorcycle.
  • You will enhance your motorcycle skills, including starting, stopping, shifting, cornering, braking, and turning.
  • You will prepare for potential emergencies and learn to anticipate other drivers' moves.
  • You will develop a stronger mental driving game.
  • You can also earn a license waiver after you successfully complete a training course, which will earn you a full motorcycle endorsement at any Ohio BMV location. This can significantly expedite the motorcycle licensing process.

If you complete an Ohio motorcycle safety course and pass the skills test, you can take your skill test waiver and your temporary permit to any Ohio driving exam location to take the next step in your journey as a motorcyclist.

What To Expect During an Ohio Motorcycle Safety Course

Whether you are new to motorcycle driving or looking to update and upgrade your skills, you can typically expect both classroom and practical on-the-road training in a motorcycle safety course.

Here are some examples of Ohio motorcycle safety courses and what they include:

  • The Basic Riding Skills (BRS) course is a 16-hour course that covers the basics of motorcycle operation. This "learn to ride" class includes four hours of classroom work and 12 hours of training on a motorcycle, with cycles and helmets provided by Motorcycle Ohio. This introductory course is all about learning basic skills and safety and getting ready to ride.
  • Basic Riding Skills for Returning Riders (BRS-RR) is designed for intermediate drivers ages 18 and up. This eight-hour class consists of two hours of classroom training and six hours on the bike. Its focus is on improving riding technique and reducing driving risks.
  • Basic Riding Skills 2 (BRS-2) is another intermediate option that offers a license waiver for more experienced motorcycle operators who want to enhance their skills. This six-hour course focuses solely on practical skills, with no classroom time or work.

Regardless of the course, motorcycle drivers of all levels will learn more about preparing to ride, the mental game, safe cornering and stopping, preparing for unexpected situations, and more. These safety courses can take you from novice to ready-to-ride in just a few hours.

Finding Approved Safety Courses

Motorcycle Ohio offers a variety of safety courses for motorcycle drivers of all levels. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation is another excellent resource for safety courses and information.

Ohio motorcycle safety course locations vary by county, but there are ample options throughout the state if you want to learn more and find an approved course.

How To Register for a Motorcycle Safety Course in Ohio

Riders can visit the Motorcycle Ohio student portal to find and complete the online form to register for a motorcycle safety course in Ohio.

Enroll in an Ohio Motorcycle Safety Course Today — Get Discounts on Insurance!

Looking for another great reason to enroll in an Ohio motorcycle safety course? Ohio insurance discounts!

If you have an Ohio license for either a motorcycle or a car, you already know how important insurance is. When you take an approved safety course, you can often benefit from significant discounts on auto insurance.

It also pays to compare quotes to make sure you are getting the best value for your investment. Visit EverQuote today for a free custom quote for motorcycle insurance. You can review and compare offers side by side to find the best insurance for your driving needs today and in the future.

FAQs

Do you have to take a motorcycle safety course in Ohio?
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In Ohio, you do not have to take a motorcycle safety course if you are 18 or older. However, doing so can speed up the licensing process, qualify you for insurance discounts, and make you a safer driver. But if you are younger than 18, then yes, this course will be required.
Where can I take my Ohio motorcycle skills test?
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You can take your Ohio motorcycle skills test at any Ohio BMV location. You can schedule an appointment online.
How much is motorcycle class in Ohio?
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Most motorcycle safety classes in Ohio average about $75.
What does the Ohio motorcycle driving test consist of?
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The Ohio motorcycle driving test consists of both a knowledge test and a skills test on the road.