What exactly is the Rider Education Program? A brief introduction follows. The GWRRA Rider Education Program is intended to make the motorcycle environment safer by reducing injuries and fatalities and increasing motorcyclist skills and awareness. Through Commitment, Education, and Application we can reduce our accident rate significantly. There are four levels of the Rider Education Program:

 1.) Level I – Safety by Commitment. The only requirement for Level 1 is the expressed commitment of the Rider and / or Co- Rider to being a safe rider. Identification includes a “Safe Miles” patch, Rider or Co-Rider rocker and a safe miles pin. Additional pins can be obtained in 5000 mile increments. Initial fee for level one is $6.00. There is no renewal fee unless you wish to apply for additional mileage pins. Higher mileage pins require a $2.00 fee and a new application.

 2.) Level II – Safety by Education. This level requires a M/C endorsement on your driver’s license, an approved riders course within 2 years, and at least 5000 safe miles. Co-Riders can qualify by attending a safe rider course or a Co-Rider seminar. (Many of our Co-Riders have qualified for this level by attending a seminar in the past few months.) Initial fee is $5.00 per person and includes a patch. Renewals are $2.00. You must include proof that requirements have been met (copies of certificates, etc.) You must be enrolled in Level I to qualify for Level II.

 3.) Level III – Safety by Preparedness. To qualify for this level you must be registered in Level I and II. Additional requirements are a current CPR, First Aid or Medic First Aid certificate. CPR and First Aid classes are offered by the American Red Cross. MFA is offered by the GWRRA. You must also carry a first aid kit in your bike and wear protective clothing while riding. Registration fee is $4.00. Renewals are $2.00. Once again, qualifying documents must be provided.

 4.) Level IV – Master Tour Rider. This level requires the Level III certification for at least one year. It also requires the applicant to be current in both CPR and First Aid and to have accumulated at least 25,000 safe miles. First application fee is $35.00 and renewals are $10.00 and, of course, documentation is required. Qualifying might not be as difficult as you think. Level 1 just requires a commitment to safe riding and many of the courses required for the upper levels will be offered by our chapter in the near future. However, commitment to participate in some of the classes may require an application in the near future. So make a commitment to safety and participation in chapter education, now. Tomorrow may be to late to get the classes and the neat patches. Or worse yet, it may be to late, period.