In Canada, motorcycle licensing requirements vary by province and territory. Generally, you’ll need to schedule both a written and a practical exam to obtain your license, but the process can differ. Some provinces may require a practical skills test, while others may only ask for written knowledge.
In Canada, the requirements for motorcycle testing vary widely. For instance, in Ontario, you must pass a written test and a road test to obtain a full motorcycle license, whereas in British Columbia, you go through a graduated licensing system that includes knowledge and road tests. Regardless of the specifics, it’s often possible to secure a motorcycle license with minimal formal training. However, jumping onto your new bike with no practical experience or theoretical knowledge could be risky.
A motorcycle safety course might seem unnecessary if you already have your motorcycle license, but there are several compelling reasons to consider it. Even if it’s not a licensing requirement in your province, the benefits of taking a course are significant, especially when it comes to safety, insurance, and practical riding skills.
Here are 10 reasons why a motorcycle safety course is a wise choice, supported by personal experience and Canadian data on safety, insurance, and more.
Learn to Ride (and Use a Clutch)
If you’ve never ridden a motorcycle before, a course is invaluable for learning the basics. Motorcycle accidents in Canada are a serious concern, with motorcyclist fatalities increasing annually. As of recent statistics, motorcycle fatalities account for a significant portion of all road deaths, with the injury rate for motorcyclists being substantially higher than for car occupants.
Motorcycle safety courses teach essential riding skills, including how to use a clutch and basic safety practices. My own experience with motorcycles began early, and taking a safety course reinforced the importance of defensive riding, which is crucial given the high accident rates.
Low-Stakes Practice for the Written Test
In Canada, passing the written test for a motorcycle license might not be too challenging if you review the handbook provided by your province’s licensing authority. However, not everyone finds written tests straightforward, and additional preparation can be beneficial.
Most motorcycle safety courses in Canada include a written test as part of the curriculum. This preparation can help you handle the written exam at your local licensing office with greater confidence. In some provinces, like Ontario, taking a safety course can also prepare you for the on-road skills test, which is an added advantage.
Skip the In-Person Skills Test
In some provinces, such as Ontario and British Columbia, taking a motorcycle safety course can allow you to bypass certain aspects of the in-person skills test. For example, completing a recognized safety course might satisfy some of the practical requirements, reducing the need for an extensive road test.
In contrast, other provinces might still require a skills test, so it’s beneficial to check local regulations. Regardless, practicing your skills in a course setting can make the actual test much less stressful.
Avoid Having to Retake the Test
Failing the written or skills test can be frustrating and costly. In Canada, you might have a limited number of attempts to pass the written exam before having to reapply. By taking a motorcycle safety course, you can reduce the likelihood of failing and the associated inconvenience and costs of retaking tests.
Try Out Different Motorcycles
One of the benefits of taking a motorcycle safety course in Canada is the opportunity to ride different types of motorcycles. Many courses provide access to various bikes, allowing you to experience different models and sizes. This can help you choose the right bike when you’re ready to purchase your own.
Get a Discount on Insurance
In Canada, completing a motorcycle safety course can often lead to discounts on insurance premiums. Insurance companies like Intact and Aviva may offer reduced rates for riders who have completed an approved safety course. This can be a significant financial benefit, offsetting the cost of the course.
Face the Safety Reality Check
A safety course emphasizes the importance of proper gear and safety practices. In Canada, wearing a DOT-approved helmet is mandatory in all provinces, but the course often reinforces the importance of additional safety gear. The course also highlights the risks of riding and the need for proper equipment.
You Don’t Need to Own a Motorcycle
Taking a motorcycle safety course in Canada doesn’t require you to own a motorcycle. This is advantageous because you can learn on provided bikes without risking damage to your own. It also allows you to gain experience on different motorcycles, which can be helpful when you decide to buy your own.
Keep Your Own Motorcycle Safe
By taking a safety course, you avoid risking damage to your personal motorcycle during the learning phase. Most courses use well-maintained but used bikes, which are ideal for practice without the worry of damaging your own new bike.
Start Strong with Good On-Road Habits
A motorcycle safety course is crucial for developing good riding habits from the start. The course teaches essential skills and knowledge that are important for safe riding. Even experienced riders can benefit from revisiting these practices to improve their safety on the road.
In summary, taking a motorcycle safety course in Canada offers numerous benefits, from learning basic skills to potentially lowering insurance costs. Whether you’re a new rider or an experienced one looking to refresh your skills, a safety course is a valuable investment in your riding future.