When I first took the MSF course, I was not entirely prepared for all the costs of taking the course. After some careful research and preparation, I did finally pass the course and now have a few tips for new riders.
The average cost of the MSF course is $250 but can range from $100 to $390 depending on the location, provider, and course type. Just remember there are additional costs like the price of gear and the costs to get the license endorsement.
To get a better understanding of all the costs of taking the MSF course, along with a few tips I learned from my experience, keep reading below. And if you’re thinking about signing up for the course, check out this article on how you can get prepared for the MSF course.
The Average Cost for the MSF Course
The most popular MSF course is the BRC, the beginner course designed to help complete beginners get their motorcycle license so they can safely and legally operate a motorcycle on the road. But it is also important to mention that there are 3 courses total, starting with the beginner course all the way up to an advanced rider course.
As a new rider, you will only need to take the BRC to get your motorcycle license, but once you get familiar with your bike, it is a good idea to seek further education to improve your skills – this is where the other 2 courses come in.
Here are the average costs for the MSF course, including the average costs for the intermediate and advanced courses.
Basic RiderCourse
The Basic Rider Course is a 2-day course offered by the MSF and is designed to teach a rider with little to no experience how to safely and effectively operate a motorcycle. Not only does this course teach a rider the skills to ride a motorcycle, but it also allows new riders to get a motorcycle license once they pass the course.
| BRC Average Cost | Range |
|---|---|
| $250 | $100-$390 |
The cost of the BRC varies from state to state but generally costs between $100 and $390 with an average cost of $250. Some states like Kentucky offer the BRC for as little as $150 whereas some states like New York offer the same course for $350.
Basic Rider Course 2
The BRC2 is a 1-day, intermediate course offered by the MSF and is designed to teach more advanced skills to riders that have some experience riding motorcycles. This course is for riders who already have their license but are looking to further improve their skills on the bike.
| BRC2 Average Cost | Range |
|---|---|
| $250 | $100-$350 |
The cost of the BRC2 seems to align with the BRC, as most states offer both courses at the same rate. The BRC2 costs between $100 and $350 with an average cost of $250. Again, it is best to check with your local resources if you want to get an exact number.
Advanced RiderCourse
The Advanced Rider Course, or ARC, is a course designed for riders with a lot of experience who want to challenge themselves while also learning the skills to maneuver a motorcycle in complex situations.
| Average Cost | Range |
|---|---|
| $150 | $100-$295 |
The ARC can cost as little as $100 or as much as $295, however, the average cost is $150.
Factors Influencing the Cost of the MSF Course
Again, the cost of taking the MSF course or BRC course will vary from state to state but there are other factors that can affect the cost as well.
Cost Variations by Location
The cost of the MSF course will greatly vary from location to location. Not only does this mean from state to state, but can also depend on the location within that state.
I have noticed that the courses offered in more urban areas tend to cost more in general, but you will also find the best deals here as well. The courses offered in more rural areas tend to be cheaper in general but depending on how far out they are, they can also cost the most.
Cost Variations by Provider
In addition to the location, the cost of the MSF course will vary from provider to provider.
I noticed that the courses offered by private providers tend to cost more, while the courses offered by public providers seem to follow a baseline cost.
For example, my local Harley Davidson dealership offers the course for $325 yet the MSF course offered by the community college is just $250. Keep this in mind if you are looking for a deal.
How to find the exact cost for your local MSF Course
As I said, the cost of the MSF course will vary from state to state and provider to provider. For this reason, it’s a good idea to do your own research and shop around if you are looking for the exact cost of the courses in your area. You can easily find the cost of the MSF course with a few Google searches. Here are some of the best ways to find the exact cost for your local MSF course:
1. Check the Official MSF website
One of the best ways to find the cost of your local MSF course is to go to the Official MSF website. The website has a function that lets you search for your local courses via your zip code.
- Locate the box that says “Find a course near you” and enter your zip code
- Once you enter your zip code, you can then view and filter the courses closest to you.
- After selecting a course, you can then see the website and contact information for that course.
Go through some of the courses closest to you and compare the pricing of each. This is one of the best ways to make sure you are getting the exact information and costs for your local MSF course.
2. Check your Local DMV or Transportation Agency Websites
You can also find the cost of your local MSF course by visiting the website for your local DMV. Not only will this help you find a list of course providers, but it can also give you some helpful information on licensing.
Another helpful option is to check the website for your state’s transportation and safety agency. Not only will this provide specific information for your state, but I also find that these pages are a complete resource for new riders interested in taking the course.
3. Search Google for your Local MSF Courses
Finally, you can easily find your local MSF courses by searching something like “motorcycle training course near me”.
This will often return a list of search results with your MSF courses offered not only by the state but also by some of your local motorcycle dealerships. This is how I found out that my local Harley dealer offers an MSF course.
The Cost of Gear for the MSF Course
Taking the MSF course actually costs more than just the price of the class itself. You also have to consider the cost of the gear you need for the course.
The gear required for the MSF course typically costs around $200 on average, including a new helmet, gloves, and boots. However, if you already own or can borrow these items, you can save even more money.
This actually took me off-guard when I first signed up, as motorcycle gear can be expensive. Luckily, I was able to find all the necessary gear within budget. If you’re looking for more information on the gear, check out this article on what gear you need for the MSF course.
For a quick rundown, here is the gear you need for the course along with the estimated cost for each item:
| Required Gear | Average Cost | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|
| Helmet and Eye Protection | $100 | DOT-approved helmet required; eye protection needed if not using a full-face helmet |
| Full-fingered gloves | $25 | Motorcycle-specific gloves recommended |
| Over-the-Ankle Boots or Shoes | $50-$80 | Motorcycle shoes are ideal |
| Long-Sleeve Shirt or Jacket | $0-$10 | Any long-sleeved shirt or jacket is acceptable |
| Jeans or Heavy Pants | $0-$30 | Any jeans or heavy pants are suitable |
1. Helmet and Eye Protection = $100
The MSF requires that you wear a DOT-approved helmet. And if you’re wearing anything less than a full-face helmet, you will also need to wear some form of eye protection. Luckily you can find helmets for $100 or less all day.
2. Full-fingered gloves = $25
You also need to wear full-fingered gloves. And while you can get away with just about any glove, it would be best to wear motorcycle-specific gloves. You can take a quick trip to your local Cyclegear and find a pair of gloves for $25.
3. Over-the-Ankle Boots or Shoes = $50-$80
A lot of new riders already have a pair of boots or over-the-ankle shoes but if you don’t, you can easily pick up a pair of Motorcycle shoes at your local Cyclegear for $40. This is what I did. I actually picked up a pair of Bilt Dexter motorcycle shoes for my course and have been using them ever since.
4. Long-Sleeve Shirt or Jacket = $0-$10
The MSF course is lax when it comes to the shirt or jacket you wear. As long as it is long-sleeved, you will be in good shape. This is great news as most of us already have a long-sleeve shirt of some kind.
5. Jeans or Heavy Pants = $0-$30
Again, you’re able to wear just about any jeans or heavy pants to the MSF course. There is a good chance you already have a pair of jeans but in case you don’t, you can easily pick up a pair for $30 or less.
Recommended Gear for the MSF Course
I recommend you go as cheap as possible when it comes to buying gear for the MSF course. And with that, here are some of my recommendations for gear.
| Recommended Gear | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Biltwell Gringo ECE Holeshot Helmet | $100 |
| BILT AirCon2 Gloves | $20 |
| BILT Dexter 2 Shoes | $80 |
1. Biltwell Gringo ECE Holeshot Helmet = $100 – The Biltwell Gringo is a great helmet, especially at the price point. Although it seems simple, the helmet shape is actually one of the safest when it comes to crash testing, plus it’s ECE-rated.
2. BILT AirCon2 Gloves = $20 – Although these aren’t recommended for actual street riding, they are perfect for beginners who are just learning the feel of a clutch and brake lever. Plus, at $20 bucks, you can easily upgrade after passing the course.
3. BILT Dexter 2 Shoes = $80 – Now the price on these recently went up, but they are still one of the best budget options when it comes to motorcycle shoes. They provide just enough support and feel so new riders can easily learn to maneuver on the bike.
Importance of proper gear for safety
Finally, I have to mention the importance of wearing the correct gear to the MSF course.
As a new rider, it is important that you keep yourself protected. I had a student fall during the class I took and he got skinned up a little.
Plus, you can get kicked out or turned away if you show up to the course without the right gear. Save yourself the trouble and money and make sure you come prepared.
Lastly, wearing the right gear will ensure you do your best during the course. You’ll be learning a lot of new techniques and putting new strain on your body, the last thing you need is the extra stress of dealing with bad gear.
If you’re looking for even more tips when it comes to gear, check out this article on what gear you need to wear to the MSF course.
The Cost to get your license Endorsement after the MSF
It’s a common misconception that passing the MSF course automatically grants you a motorcycle license. In reality, passing the course only provides a waiver that allows you to skip the motorcycle tests at the DMV.
To obtain a motorcycle license or add an M endorsement to your existing license, you will still need to pay the required fees and fulfill the requirements set by your state’s DMV.
On average, the cost to get a motorcycle license after passing the MSF course will be $25 but pricing will range from $10 to $50 depending on the state.
Just remember that the voucher you receive upon passing the MSF course may serve as proof of completion, but it does not guarantee the issuance of a license or endorsement.
It’s important to check with your local DMV for the specific requirements and fees for obtaining a motorcycle license or M endorsement.
The Total Cost of Taking the MSF Course
As I alluded to in the beginning and throughout the article, there are more costs to taking the MSF course than just the cost of the course itself.
On average, the total cost of taking the MSF course will be $475-$500. This includes the cost of the course, the cost of the gear, as well as the cost to get your motorcycle license or M endorsement from the DMV.
| Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| MSF Course | $250 |
| Gear for Course | $200 |
| License/Endorsement | $25 |
| Total Cost for MSF | $475 |
When you sign up for the MSF course, leave enough budget or time to account for the costs of the gear and license requirements.
Again, you can save a lot of money if you already have most of the required gear. Just keep in mind there are more costs to consider.
Is the MSF Course Worth the Cost
With all the costs associated with taking the MSF, some new and even seasoned riders may feel apprehensive about taking the MSF course. And it’s a common question whether or not the MSF course is worth the cost.
The MSF course is worth the cost because it teaches you the life-saving techniques to safely and effectively operate a motorcycle. It also offers many benefits like insurance savings, community-building opportunities, and an exciting life experience.
And I’m not just saying that. I have encountered countless riders in recent years who would have seriously benefited from taking the MSF course. And it’s not just the new riders, I have seen countless “experienced” riders who didn’t know some of the most basic rules and etiquette.
Here are all the reasons the MSF is worth the cost and much more:
1. The Best and Safest Way to Learn
First off, taking the MSF course is the best and safest way to learn how to ride a motorcycle.
For new riders, this is the easiest and cheapest way to try your hand a riding a motorcycle. And for you riders with experience, this is a great way to brush up on your skills as well as learn a few more that can save your life.
The class will teach you a variety of techniques and skills to handle situations you might handle out on the road. And trust me, I have put them all to good use.
You also learn great rules and procedures for riding on the road, making you a better driver on and off the motorcycle.
2. Insurance Savings
The MSF course is worth it for the skills you learn but there is a financial aspect as well.
When you pass the MSF course, they will provide you with another voucher that gives you a 10% discount on your motorcycle insurance. And most insurance providers accept this voucher and will discount your policy accordingly.
Depending on the cost of your insurance, you will often make back the money you spent on the course within a few years.
3. Community Building
One of the underrated benefits of taking the MSF course is also the community aspect.
There were a variety of students at my course, from all ages, experience levels, and backgrounds. Over the course of the two-day class, we quickly became friends and even made plans to ride together once we passed and got our licenses.
To this day I still like every “graduation” picture my local MSF course posts on Facebook, because it wasn’t that long ago that I was a part of that same smiling group of characters, all excited to take our newly learned skills to the street.
By taking the MSF course, you immediately have a group of people rooting for you, whether it be your course instructors or the students you make friends with along the way.
4. Exciting Experience
As I kind of mentioned before, taking the MSF course is one of the most exciting experiences out there.
The anticipation before the class and drills, the excitement of learning new skills, and the confidence that you are learning to be a safe driver all contribute to a unique and memorable experience for years to come.
This goes double for the people who have been dreaming of learning to ride a motorcycle for a long time. The feeling of riding a motorcycle for the first time is truly one of a kind.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are a few extra costs to consider when it comes to taking the MSF course. You have to account for the price of the course, gear, and licensing requirements.
Regardless of the cost, the MSF course is well worth its weight in gold and you will never regret taking the time and resources to attend the class.