NMCTI Graduated Rider Certification

There are 5 steps (or graduations) in the NMCTI Certification process. Each step is designed to decrease Motorcycle Driver Fatality/Morbidity Rates.

NMCTI Graduated Rider Certification is typically a much more demanding process than other Motorcycle Certifications.

Step 1:

Gather information to make an informed choice to pursue, or not pursue, street riding. Know that driving motorcycles is a much riskier than driving passenger vehicles.

Motorcycle drivers represent less than 1% of all drivers and yet motorcycle drivers represent 20% of all drivers killed. Most motorcycle drivers killed have a valid license.

Be familiar with the Data! Recognize that motorcycling is currently more risky than it used to be. Have a plan to decrease your chance of Motorcycle Driver Fatality/Morbidity.

Step 2:

The Beginner-time: Know how to operate a motorcycle before you ever ride on the street. Complete Basic Motorcycle Operation training before your first street ride. Do not combine Basic Motorcycle Operation training with street riding motorcycle operation training. Graduates of the Begin2ride Course know basic motorcycle operation. Graduates of Begin2ride know that it is ok to choose not to ride.

Step 3:

The Learner-time: Complete the written test at the DMV/MVA for your Learner’s Permit/Restricted Motorcycle License and complete Street Riding Motorcycle Operation training. Graduates of the Continue2ride Course learn and practice Street Riding Motorcycle Operation on appropriately sized motorcycles. Graduates of the MSF Basic Rider Course also learn about Street Riding Motorcycle Operation.

Step 4:

Document your first 500 miles and 3 months of riding. Keep a log of the date, miles traveled, and a brief note on what you learned on each ride. If you find that the risk of driving motorcycles is higher than you expected, or for any other reason, know it is ok to choose not to ride. Be sure to complete step 4 whether or not you have a motorcycle learners permit or motorcycle license.

Step 5:

After a minimum of 500 on-street miles and a minimum of 3 months, complete one (or more) independent physical skill evaluations that require successful demonstration of some intermediate skills to pass. It is ok to complete evaluations of your skill during your first 500 miles, just be sure to measure yourself again after completing 500 miles. Many Departments of Motor Vehicles continue to provide excellent independent testing for a nominal cost for the motorcycle license. Graduates of the Test2ride Course have demonstrated some intermediate physical skills. Graduates of the MSF Basic Rider Course (BRC) are not required to demonstrate any intermediate skills.

Page edited 02.07.12