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Michigan Speed Measurement Operator

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Instructor:

Lance R. Cook retired as a lieutenant from the Michigan State Police in 2024, after serving nearly 37 years in law enforcement at the state, county, and local levels. His last assignment was as the commander of the MSP Traffic Crash Reconstruction Unit.  Most of his career was spent in traffic safety, and he is a nationally recognized expert in traffic law, traffic engineering, and traffic crash reconstruction.  He teaches a variety of traffic-related topics.

Course Description:

This is a two-day course that leads to MCOLES certification as a Michigan Speed Measurement Operator. All speed measurement including RADAR and LIDAR are taught and certified as a single course.

Topics:

    • Relationship of speed to traffic safety
    • Legal basis for speed limits
    • Scientific principles of RADAR and LIDAR
    • VASCAR, air speed timing, pacing, and other methods of speed measurement
    • Common features of speed measurement devices
    • Preparation for enforcement
    • Operation of speed measurement devices
    • Speed measurement legal considerations
    • Preparation for court
    • Proctored field practice
    • Field assessment and final written exam

Equipment Needed:

A vehicle with a properly installed and working RADAR will be needed for Day Two.  A LIDAR with fully charged batteries will also be needed for Day Two.  Agencies sending multiple officers should send one vehicle/device for every three officers.

Prerequisites (to be completed prior to the start of class):

  • The registered officer must have already completed FTO
  • Registrants are required to complete a minimum of four (4) hours reviewing the MCOLES Speed Measurement Enforcement Participant Manual
  • Registrants must complete Participant Handout projects 1 through 10 
    • An email will be sent to participants upon their registration that will include:
      • MCOLES Speed Measurement Enforcement Participant Manual
      • MCOLES Speed Measurement Student Participant Handouts
      • Oakland Police Academy Speed Measurement PreCourse Acknowledgment Form

 

Course Details

DATES:  June 3 - 4, 2026 | February 3 - 4, 2027 | April 7 - 8, 2027 | May 18 - 19, 2027
TIME: 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
COST: $400.00 (Small Agency Group Discount – FREE)
LOCATION: Oakland Police Academy 2900 Featherstone, Auburn Hills, MI 48326
REGISTRATION: Email: [email protected] or phone: (248) 232-4227

- 302 Funds Eligible -

*No shows WILL be billed unless cancellation is received FIVE days prior to the class*