May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

AUSTIN, TX – May marks the month when motorcycle riders across the state are hopping on their motorcycles to enjoy warmer temperatures. But how many of them have taken either a basic instructional course or a refresher if they’ve been away from motorcycling for a while?

During Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) reminds both new and seasoned riders that taking an approved motorcycle safety course can provide the skills necessary for obtaining a Texas motorcycle driver license or endorsement – or can reinforce skills that haven’t been used recently. 

But all those motorcycle safety courses require licensed motorcycle instructors before students can learn important skills for protecting themselves while they’re riding their motorcycles.

To become licensed as a motorcycle instructor in Texas, a person must complete an instructor preparation course administered by the Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (TEEX). Motorcycle schools licensed in Texas can contract with TEEX to conduct any TDLR-approved instructor training course at their own facilities, under the supervision of TEEX.

“If you’re a motorcycle rider who’s passionate about riding – and you want to help educate new riders – we need you to take one of these instructor courses offered by TEEX so you can go on to teach others,” said Brian E. Francis, TDLR executive director.

The TEEX course prepares instructor candidates to teach motorcycle safety to students wanting to qualify to obtain a motorcycle driver license or endorsement. Once candidates successfully complete the course, they will be eligible to obtain a Texas Motorcycle Instructor License from TDLR. Licensed instructors can teach any course in motorcycle operation approved by TDLR.

The TDLR Motorcycle Safety program regulates and licenses instructors and schools that conduct motorcycle operation and safety courses. The ATV Operator Safety program regulates and licenses instructors who conduct courses on safely operating off-highway vehicles including all-terrain vehicles.