Motorcycle Rider Classes

Learn to Ride with Confidence

Mid-State offers Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF)-based rider training for beginners and experienced riders. Classes run April–October at our Wisconsin Rapids and Marshfield campuses. Our certified instructors teach safe riding skills, and Mid-State provides the motorcycles.

Open enrollment and class dates vary. Ready to ride? Learn more about the course and register below.

Course Overview

The 16-hour Basic Rider Course (BRC) is developed by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) and taught by MSF and WisDOT-certified instructors. The on-cycle training in this course takes place off-street, away from traffic, and includes the use of college-provided motorcycles.

Upon successful completion, you will receive an MSF Basic Rider Course completion card, which can be used to obtain your Class M endorsement at the DMV.

At a Glance

  • Total time: 16 hours (5-hour online eCourse + 1 hour classroom + 11 hours hands-on riding)
  • Delivery: Online eCourse + in-person classroom and on-cycle training
  • When: April–October (open enrollment; class dates vary)
  • Where: Wisconsin Rapids and Marshfield campuses
  • Cost: $211.44 (payment required at registration)
  • Seats: Varies by class; classes may be canceled for low enrollment

What You’ll Learn

  • Preparing to ride safely
  • Turning, shifting, and braking
  • Street strategies and handling special situations
  • Skill-building exercises to improve control
  • Basic motorcycle maintenance and insurance basics

How to Participate

From Basic Rider Course registration to receiving your completion card, follow the steps below.

  1. Register for the Basic Rider Course at Mid-State (online or in person). Payment is required at registration.
  2. Complete the online MSF eCourse (5 hours). After you register, Mid-State will send you the link to access this online portion.
  3. Gather required gear for the in-person portion. You must bring proper riding gear—see the Required Motorcycle Riding Gear (PDF).
  4. Sign and bring your waiver. You’ll get a waiver two weeks before class; sign and bring it to the first meeting. Students under 18 must have a guardian sign in person.
  5. Attend all sessions. Complete the classroom and on-cycle training (11 hours on the range).
  6. Receive your completion card. Use this card to get your Class M endorsement at the DMV.

Register for the Course

Payment for the Basic Rider Course is required in full at the time of registration. Register online now, or visit any Mid-State Technical College location to register in person. Must be a Wisconsin resident and at least 15½ years old to enroll. Need help? Call 888-575-6782.

Register Now

Important Notes

Motorcycles provided: Mid-State supplies bikes for training. Students may not use their own motorcycles.

Online eCourse required: Complete the MSF Basic RiderCourse ePackage1 before your first in-person class. Bring a printed or electronic certificate of completion to class or you may not be allowed to participate.

Classes meet rain or shine.

Refunds: Full refund only if you cancel at least 48 hours before the first class meeting.

Under 18: Students under 18 must be at least 15 ½ years old AND have a parent/guardian sign the waiver in person at the College or before the instructor on day one. Instruction permits (temporary permits) are not required to enroll. If you want a permit before completing the course, provide proof of enrollment to the DMV.