shamb, I recommend
http://www.ca-msp.org/ I just took the basic rider course last weekend, and passed it. it is a good class.... you learn a lot, I had never been on a bike before
with completion of that class, you will get a dl-389... that form @ dmv allows you to bypass the driving test on a bike. just take a written @ dmv and get your bike license
also, you don't need a permit to take the class, your regular license is fine, and they provide the bikes and helmets
