Frequently Asked Questions

The student's registration statement will list the classroom location — detailed information will be emailed to students one week before the class starts.

Rider School Map

Classroom: The Rider School classrooms are located in the Hickory Ridge Building. For GPS directions, use 5075 Campus Drive, Columbia MD 21044. For a map of the Hickory Ridge Building, click here.

Parking: For classroom sessions, please park in the West Garage, which is marked on The Rider School Campus Map. For GPS directions, use 5051 Campus Drive, Columbia, MD 21044.

Range: The Rider School range is located near Lot J. Feel free to park in the West Garage, or use available parking near Lot J.

For those signed up for a three-session Basic Rider Course (BRC) or Absolute Beginner Basic Rider Course (ABC):

The first session is classroom-based. Students should bring a pen, snack (if desired), and anything else that might be used for a regular college class. Riding gear is not needed during the first class, but feel free to bring it to receive instructor approval.

For those signed up for a two-session Basic Rider Course (BRC) or Basic Rider Course 2 (BRC2):

The first session is a combined classroom and range session. Students must bring their riding gear to both sessions, along with a pen, a snack (if desired), and anything else that might be used for a regular college class.

Successful completion of ABC, BRC, or BRC2 qualifies students to receive a motorcycle license at the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA).  Upon successful class completion, The Rider School will enter the passing score into the MVA database and students will make an appointment to visit a full-service MVA and take an eye exam. A written or riding test is not required. The MVA will issue the license.

MVA only allows The Rider School to enter scores for students who provide a Maryland license number. You must have a Maryland license, learner’s permit, or state ID that has a Soundex number. Students with an out-of-state license will receive a completion card, which is accepted by many other states. For those considering changing to a Maryland driver’s license, it is recommended to do so before attending the class.

HCC cannot guarantee that other states will honor Maryland’s completion card. Some states require a letter or scoring documentation. Please check individual state requirements; HCC will assist if we are able.

If a student has a Hazmat endorsement on their CDL license, there are specific requirements they must meet to add the Class M to their license. To add the Class M, they will have to (again) go through the background check, take the Hazmat test, and pay the CDL/Hazmat license fee. These added requirements are for compliance with federal regulations on the Hazmat endorsement.

Rider School students have one opportunity to retake the test. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee that the student will pass the test, but most pass either the first or second time. Please call 443-518-4808 to schedule your retest.

• A motorcycle helmet that meets DOT standards and is either ¾ or full faced. Off-road helmets are acceptable. Snell Foundation certified helmets less than five years old are preferred. 
• Sturdy leather (or leather-like) over-the-ankle boots, or shoes. No canvas.
• Long pants and a long-sleeved shirt or jacket. No yoga-style pants.
• Sturdy, full-fingered gloves (preferably leather).
• Eye protection such as safety glasses, helmet face shield, or sunglasses.

Yes! Check out this short video to see Rider School range sessions in action!

In addition, short sample videos may be viewed on the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's website. Students can also view a PDF of the Basic Rider Course Handbook online.

Students should report to class no matter the weather. Classes are held rain or shine, except in the case of hurricanes or tornadoes. Please note that HCC does run classes on some holidays when the College is also open.

Students must be at least 16 years and 3 months old. For those under 18, a parent or guardian must go with the student to the first class to sign release and disclaimer forms. The student must show proof that they are at least 16 years and 3 months old.

Rider School students may be counseled out of a course (asked to stop by the instructor) if they are unable to complete an exercise safely or successfully. They may just need to take a more basic course; however, some people are just not suited to riding. If an opening is available for a course in which the instructor decides is a more appropriate fit, the student may register for that course and will need to pay full price. The decision as to whether a student may continue a course is at the sole discretion of the instructor and is never taken lightly.

A wait list is not offered but it is recommended that interested students continue to check for openings on the registration page — online drops display immediately.

Yes, every registered Rider School student has the right to file a complaint. We ask that students first alert The Rider School Program Office and/or Program before contacting the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) at 410-424-3751.