Last modified Tue., November 24, 2009 - 05:26 PM
Originally created Thursday, November 26, 2009

If you ride, get recertified

Questions and answers about the Navy motorcycle recertification process

By Mary Anne Broderick Tubman, CNRSE Public Affairs

A group of Sailors participated in the Basic Motorcycle Safety course at NAS Jax Nov 17. Photos by AM3(AW) Nicole Bieneman

Since motorcycle recertification training became mandatory for all U.S. Navy and Department of Defense (DoD) personnel, fatalities for the Navy have decreased more than 60 percent. To fine tune those lifesaving skills, all motorcycle riders are required to complete follow-on recertification training every three years. Connie Policastro, lead motorcycle safety specialist for Navy Region Southeast, answered some of the most frequently asked questions about the recertification process.

Q. Why is recertification required? A. The OPNAV states that the training is "to enhance the skills and competencies of every motorcycle rider." I would like to think that you are now being given an opportunity to refresh and fine tune your skills.

Q. Who must recertify? A. Recertification is mandatory for all military riders, whether they ride on or off base, and for all DoD civilian personnel who ride on base or while on duty.

Q. What courses are required for recertification? A. Any Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course will qualify. Typically, the one-day Experienced Rider Course (ERC) is used by anyone who rides a cruiser, but it can also be taken by sport bike riders who are currently properly licensed. The Military Sport Bike Rider Course (MSRC) is mandatory for all sport bike riders, and should be taken within 60 days after completion of the Basic Rider Course. The MSRC also qualifies for recertification. Tenant commands at Navy installations can also contact their local Safety Office to request a special class to recertify their personnel. Scheduling depends upon the number of students and instructor availability. Command ERCs offer two distinct advantages. First, all riders can catch up immediately on their certifications. Second, they allow skilled cyclists in the command to identify newer, less experienced riders and offer additional support.

Q. How does a motorcycle rider know when it's time to recertify? A. Look at the issue date on the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) completion card. Plan on taking the MSRC or ERC three years from that date.

Q. How do riders register for the ERC or MSRC? A. Enroll at www.navymotorcyclerider.com through the Enterprise Safety Application Management System (ESAMS). There is a link to ESAMS at the bottom of the home page.

Q: In addition to certification, what else is required for any active duty military rider to operate a motorcycle on or off base? A: All riders need the following:

Personal protective equipment, which inclues a helmet, full-fingered gloves, long pants, sturdy, over-the-ankle footwear, and eye protection. A complete list appears in OPNAVINST 5100.12H Ch. 1, at www.safetycenter.navy.mil/instructions/index.asp

An MSF course within the last three years

A motorcycle endorsement on your driver's license

Registration

Insurance

Q. Where can I learn more about motorcycle training and safety? A. The Naval Safety Center Web site (http://www.safetycenter.navy.mil) is an excellent resource for every aspect of owning and operating a motorcycle, and includes a directory of installation safety offices by region. The MSF (http://www.msf-usa.org) provides descriptions of each course and motorcycle safety-related material.

Motorcycle safety instructor Michael Kyser ensures a student is following the proper techniques on the range during a Motorcycle Safety Course at NAS Jax.