Tampa SMART - Safe Motorcycle and Rider Techniques
Hello City of Tampa! THANK YOU!
The response to our course has been overwhelming! All classes are filled at this time. If you would like to attend a future class, please fill out the information below. We will contact you when additional classes are scheduled.
Are you a motorcycle rider and have your own motorcycle? If so, you are invited to participate in the “Safe Motorcycle And Rider Techniques” class (TAMPA - S.M.A.R.T) hosted by the Tampa Police Department Motor Unit and instructed by TPD’s motor instructors.
The Tampa Police Department, the Florida Dept. of Transportation (FDOT) and Motorcycle Safety Coalition - Ride SMART Florida recognizes the need for continued training and safety awareness for the motorcycling community. The goal is to do our part in mitigating the number of injuries and fatalities associated with motorcycling.
The intent of this course is to introduce the civilian motorcycling public to riding techniques that would enhance their safety and riding abilities. These riding techniques are in use by the Tampa Police Department Motor Unit and help in keeping their motor officers safe during their tours of duty. The premise behind the Tampa SMART course is if riding skills and knowledge utilized by the motor officer help keep them safe, then hopefully passing those skills and knowledge on to the public could also help lower motorcycle crashes and save lives.
The Tampa SMART course is divided into 5 areas: (1) Basic Riding Techniques, (2) Slow Maneuver Techniques, (3) Crash Avoidance Techniques, (4) Street Survival Skills and (5) Practical Applications. The course is conducted on select weekends with 10 hours on Saturday and 5 hours on Sunday.
To apply for the course, please fill in the requested information at the bottom of the page.
Course Information:
Location: Tampa Police Academy Driving Pad - 116 S. 34th Street, Tampa FL 33602
Date and Time: Saturday Session 7 AM - 5 PM and Sunday Session 7 am - 12 PM
Cost: Free
Class Size: 20
Course Requirements: Personal Motorcycle (2-Wheeled, Street legal)
Motorcycle Endorsement
Signed Waiver
Attendance Policy: Classes start ON TIME. Individuals who are late and have not registered by 7:15 am will forfeit their slot.
What to Bring to Class:
✓ Valid Driver’s License with the motorcycle endorsement
✓ A mechanically sound motorcycle (no leaking fluids, worn tires, etc.)
✓ Over the ankle footwear (footwear which covers the ankle bone and provides support)
✓ Long pants
Short or Long sleeve shirt (Optional)
✓ Eye protection (sunglasses or eyeglasses are acceptable)
✓ Department of Transportation approved helmet
✓ Gloves (Optional)
✓ Water, Powerade, Gatorade or some other non-alcoholic beverage. Snacks are optional; remember you will be OUTSIDE ON A DRIVING PAD WITH LIMITED SHADE! Drink plenty of fluids 1 to 2 hours before the start of your range session and continue during your range session. Sunscreen, rain gear and a change of clothing are usually good to have available. It is the responsibility of each rider to have everything needed to attend this course. Anyone arriving without the mandatory riding equipment will not be permitted to participate.
Questions? Call 813-276-3445 or Email: Tampa-Smart@tampagov.net
Please enter your name, phone number, and email address.
We will contact you to confirm your placement in the class.
