Frequently Asked Questions
The following explains the MREM enrollment process and should answer most questions you may have:Q: Do you provide actual "hands-on" motorcycle training?
A: Our 2-day beginner course (BRC) offers a combination of hands-on riding experience plus classroom instruction. Youll take a written test and a riding skills evaluation on the final day of the weekend. Successful completion of these tests qualifies you for a motorcycle endorsement on your drivers license. Those who pass the written test but fail the riding evaluation will qualify for a permit. 83% of our students pass both tests. Well provide a small training bike and, in a large parking area, certified MSF instructors will teach you the basics in a step-by-step process. You do not need any prior training or experience to take this course but a good sense of balance and coordination is essential! FMI - go to the Motorcycle Safety Foundations website at: www.msf-usa.org (this site also has contacts for military personnel).
Q: Do you offer a course for experienced riders?
A: Yes, this 1-day course (ERC) is for licensed riders only and is usually held during the first half of the teaching season on either Saturday or Sunday from 9:00 AM to about 5:00 PM. There are a limited number of dates and classes will be held subject to availability and enrollment. Participants use their own, street-legal, motorcycles and must wear protective gear, including a helmet.
Q: What equipment will a student need prior to taking the course?
A: Participants in both the Basic and Experienced courses must bring a DOT or Snell approved helmet, eye protection (goggles, glasses, or a helmet faceshield), a long-sleeved shirt or jacket, long pants of sturdy material, over-the-ankle footwear, full-fingered gloves (leather boots and gloves are preferred). Rain gear (no ponchos) is strongly recommended.
Q: When do enrollments open?
A: Usually in mid to late March each year. Enrollment instructions will be included in the brochure.
Q: When and how can I get a schedule of classes?
A: After January 1st & prior to March 21, contact Motorcycle Rider Education of Maine at 207-941-9587 or at RiderEdofME@aol.com and ask to be placed on the mailing list to receive a brochure with training information. Please give your full legal name, mailing address, phone number(s) and date of birth. The schedule, course information and an enrollment application will be mailed to everyone on the list shortly after March 21st. Applications will be accepted in order of arrival, by mail only, based on the availability of openings in the classes listed by the applicant. Please keep in mind that being on the mailing list does not guarantee that you will be able to enroll in a class. Demand is usually much higher than our capacity.
Q. What can I do if I'm too late to get on the current mailing list?
A: Call or e-mail with a request to be put on our waiting list in case of a cancellation. Classes are usually completely filled by early April but we have some cancellations though-out the season. Well need your name, address, phone numbers and locations youd be willing to travel to. This waiting list will not carry over to the next year.
Q: How many classes are held each year and where?
A: Two or three classes are held each weekend from late April through early October, rotating among the following sites: Old Orchard Beach, Augusta, Orono & Ellsworth.
Q. Can I get a motorcycle endorsement on my Maine drivers license if I take a course in another state?
A: Yes, if non-residents are allowed to take a class, and if the class offered is the Motorcycle Safety Foundations Basic RiderCourse, Maine will allow the road test waiver if you pass. The MSF completion card issued at the end of class will be required at the Maine Motor Vehicle Registry as proof of course completion. To locate a MSF Basic RiderCourse provider in another state go to www.msf-usa.org
Q: Is taking this course the only way to get a license?
A: No, its not. Many driving schools offer the eight hour, classroom only, permit course. Look in the yellow pages under "driving instruction" or call us for a referral. To receive a license after taking the permit course you will be required to schedule a road test with an examiner from DMV.
Q: How much does the hands-on course cost?
A: The fee for the basic course is $295.00 and $100.00 for the experienced course, payable within one week of receiving enrollment confirmation. Visa, Mastercard (which must be called into the office), checks and money orders are acceptable forms of payment.
Q: Do you offer any discounts?
A: MREM offers a discount to members of the AMA, MRF and UBM. Current members of any of these motorcyclist rights organizations may take a $15.00 discount on MREM classes (proof of membership is required with your tuition payment). UBM can be contacted directly for membership information at www.ubm-usa.org or 1-888-229-9826.
Q: If I already have a permit do I have to sit through the classroom portion of your classes?
A: Yes, State law requires you to take our entire class from start to finish, regardless of prior training. You must pass the skills evaluation in order to qualify to have the DMVs road test waived. To schedule a road test only, send in the postcard that came with your permit. The State will schedule a test date approximately 4-6 weeks from the day you send the card in.
Q: Can I take a class if I am 16?
A: Yes, but you must be 16 before the start of your class. Those applicants who are 16 to 18 years old are required to have completed "Drivers Ed" and must provide written permission from a parent or guardian once their enrollment is confirmed.
