The CMSP Premier Program is a a multi-day course taught by RiderCoaches certified by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) using curriculum developed by MSF specifically for CMSP at the request of the California Highway Patrol. Upon successful completion of the CMSP Premier Program course, students are given a Certificate of Completion of Motorcycle Training (DL389). The motorcycle riding test given by the DMV may be waived with this certification and graduates may also qualify for insurance premium discounts with some motorcycle insurers.
The CMSP Premier Program is aimed at beginning riders of all ages 15 1/2 or older who desire a learning experience with more riding time and classroom lessons than the MSF Basic RiderCourse. To take this course, you must present a valid driver's license, learner's permit, or a certificate showing completion of classroom portion of driver's education. If under 18, a waiver must be signed by a parent or guardian.
A minimum of seven and a half hours of classroom instruction in two sessions prepares the student for at least fifteen hours of practical riding in three sessions in a controlled, off-street environment. Motorcycles and helmets for use in the course are included in your course fee. Course fee depends training site. Motorcycles used in the course are loaned by local dealers and range in displacement from 125cc to 500cc.
In this course, you'll learn how to operate a motorcycle safely, with emphasis on the special skills and mental attitudes necessary for dealing with traffic.
RiderCoaches will start you off with straight-line riding, turning, shifting and stopping. You'll gradually progress to cornering, swerving and emergency braking with additional training on cornering judgment, swerving and stopping quickly, negotiating multiple curves and a second skills evaluation to help you understand your level of riding ability. In the classroom you'll learn about the different types of motorcycles, their characteristics, and how they operate. The RiderCoaches, all experienced motorcyclists, will advise you on what to wear for comfort, visibility and protection. You'll find out how alcohol and other drugs affect your ability to ride safely by experiencing the MSF Ride Straight lesson using the Fatal Vision Goggles. The MSF Guide to Group Riding is also presented to give students valuable tips on safely riding in groups. A very important segment of the course will show you how to create your own strategy for riding in traffic, and how to deal with critical situations. The course concludes with a knowledge test and skill evaluation.
Additionally you may find a Harley Davidson Rider's Edge course offered near you. Featuring a CHP-approved version of the Rider's Edge curriculum these training sites are CMSP-affiliated and successful students will earn a Certificate of Completion of Motorcycle Training (DL389).
