SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced today that applications are being accepted for new partners to administer the popular Cycle Rider Safety Training Program. Recent changes in state law have expanded the pool of eligible providers that can offer the training supported through Illinois motorcycle registration license endorsement fees.
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The official Notice of Funding Opportunity, with rules, frequently asked questions and contact information, is available by clicking here or visiting the Illinois Traffic Safety Grants webpage. Applications are being accepted through Aug. 24. The total amount of available funding is $6 million, with awards announced later this year.
The Cycle Rider Safety Training Program began at IDOT in 1976 through the Cycle Rider Safety Training Act (Public Act 82-649). Since its inception, the program has trained more than 400,000 riders through classes traditionally offered by colleges and universities through grants administered by IDOT and broken down by regions.
On Jan. 1, Public Act 104-0408 amended the Cycle Rider Safety Training Act to include community colleges and state universities as well as local governments, not-for-profits and businesses. Classes also will no longer be assigned by the previously established regional boundaries. Additionally, a variety of curriculum can be utilized, contingent on IDOT approval.
Awards will be determined based on training needs, cost effectiveness and organizational capacity of applicants.
Despite making up less than 3% of Illinois registered vehicles, motorcycles are involved in almost 15% of fatal crashes. The Cycle Rider Safety Training Program offers Illinois residents free safety training courses for riders with all levels of skill and experience. As a benefit of the training, successful graduates receive a completion card that waives the Secretary of State motorcycle license test.
