The biker must first establish a strong friendship with an established member, who becomes his unofficial sponsor. Having a sponsor act as a screening agent is necessary because a club like the Rebels MC is a closed paramilitary organization. The sponsorship member will be held personally accountable for any indiscretions on the part of the guest. On the other hand, if the member recruits a promising prospect, he gains status in the club, along with a friend and potential ally in future club politics.
Early participation is by invitation only.
In the beginning, even the seemingly innocuous act of joining members for a beer can fall under scrutiny by patch holders. To ride with the club on a run, a biker first must have his name brought up at the weekly meeting. Two negative votes are enough to overrule him. But even 100 percent approval does not mean the biker's presence will go unchallenged. That sounds like a lengthy selection process.