Motorcycle Rider Education Program (MREP)

Motorcycling can be a thrilling and challenging experience. The safe operation of a motorcycle requires practiced skill, knowledge, and a respectful understanding of the limitations imposed by the operator, the machine, and the environment.

Believing in the benefits of rider education, the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security administers the Tennessee Motorcycle Rider Education Program (MREP). MREP provides a combination of rider education and public awareness initiatives, including information on licensing procedures, the effects of drugs and alcohol, and safe riding practices to prevent accidents, injuries and deaths.

Benefits of a MREP Rider Education Course

Students who successfully complete a MREP Rider Education Course will receive a completion card and a certificate. The certificate is good for one year from the date of issuance.
With a certificate, riders applying for a Tennessee Motorcycle License will have their license skills and knowledge tests waived.
The certificate entitles the holder to an insurance premium discount.
Some motorcycle manufacturers will reimburse students for the cost of the MREP Rider Education Course. Ask your dealer about this benefit.
Students will have a new level of confidence, increased skills, and a safer, more enjoyable ride.

MREP Rider Education Courses

MREP offers four courses to prepare motorcycle riders to safely meet the challenges that the streets offer. The courses are for riders with different levels of experience so that students with similar skill levels can learn together. Current riders and anyone thinking about riding (ages 14 and up) are encouraged to enroll in a Training Course.

Basic Rider Course (BRC) - an entry level course designed for new riders. It incorporates classroom discussion and hands on practice. Motorcycles are provided
Basic Rider Course Two (BRC2) – a course designed for people who are already riding but want to learn and practice more advanced skills
Advanced Rider Course (ARC) - a challenging course for more experienced riders
Trike Course - equal to the BRC but designed for trike riders

Each of these courses are taught by Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Certified Instructors/Coaches in a safe, off-street environment. These
Instructors/Coaches are highly experienced riders with the patience, understanding and knowledge to help students develop the skills they need to
become safe, responsible motorcyclists.

Each Rider Education Course Will Provide:

Certified Instructors/Coaches
Motorcycle Operator Manual
Training Motorcycles (125cc-350cc Street Legal)

Rider Education Courses may also provide student workbook and helmets. Please check with your course to confirm their availability.

What to Bring/Wear

To participate in any Rider Education Course every rider is required to have the following safety gear:

D.O.T. Approved Helmet (courses will provide an appropriate helmet on request)
Eye Protection (face shield or safety glasses)
Appropriate Shoes (leather footwear that covers the ankle with low heels)
Long Pants (denim or equally durable material)
Long Sleeve Shirt or Jacket
Full Fingered Gloves (preferably leather)

Since classes are held in all weather conditions (except icing), you are advised to bring the following:

Wet Weather Gear (rain jackets, rain pants, etc.)
Cold Weather Gear (warm jackets, sweaters, etc.)
Water or other beverages
Lunch/snacks as necessary

Rider Education Course Locations and Schedules

MREP course sites are conveniently located across the Tennessee. Classes are normally scheduled from March to December. Please call the site you wish to attend for the course fee.

Rider Education Courses

MREP Program Coordinator

THP Lt. Steve Sakarapanee
Steve.Sakarapanee@tn.gov
283 Stewarts Ferry Pike
Nashville, TN 37214
Phone: (615) 232-2901
Fax: (615) 532-3606