If you are living in New South Wales and want to drive a motorcycle as a means of transportation, just to satisfy your adventurous lifestyle, or for professional reasons, NSW has a structured pathway for learner riders just like you.  Attending a motorcycle pre-learner course is the first step to enable you to acquire a motorcycle learner license in NSW.

A motorcycle learner licence is a provisional or beginner’s licence that will grant you permission to legally ride a motorcycle under specific conditions while learning to ride.  This will ensure the new riders gain experience safely before getting a full motorcycle licence.   However, as a learner, there are specific rules and restrictions in place for your safety and that of others you will encounter along the way.  Take time to read the following tips to understand these rules and restrictions.

Eligibility for a Motorcycle Learner Licence in NSW

An applicant for the licence must be at least 16 years and 9 months old, a passer in the Driver Knowledge Test or an NSW valid driver’s licence holder, and a pre-learner course completer from an approved training provider.  The last requirement is a mandatory two-day course that helps new riders understand the basics of riding and road safety.

Motorcycle Learner Licence Conditions

When you are already a learner licence holder, you must adhere to the following rules:

LAMS-Approved Motorcycles.  The only motorcycle that you can ride is the one that meets the Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS) requirements.  These vehicles usually have an engine capacity of up to 660 cc and a power-to-weight ratio that is appropriate for learners.

Displaying L-Plates.  You must display a white square plate with the red letter “L” on it on both the front and back of your motorcycle whenever you are riding.

No Passengers.  As a learner licence holder, you are prohibited from carrying pillion passengers to ensure that you remain focused on developing your riding skills.

Speed Limits.  As a beginner, you cannot exceed 90 km/h, regardless of the posted speed limit.

Alcohol and Drugs.  Of course, you are prohibited from riding under the influence of drugs and must maintain a zero blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at all times.

Helmet and Gear.  Only the approved motorcycle helmet can be worn and it is mandatory to wear it.  To minimize injuries, it is highly recommended to use protective clothing, gloves, and boots.

No Towing.  Because you are still a learner rider, you are not permitted to tow another vehicle or trailer.  

Where You Can Ride

Restrictions on motorways or tollways and in certain high-risk areas will apply, so you must familiarize yourself with the local roads where these prohibitions are present.

The Importance of Rider Training

Rider training in NSW is very important, that is why, after completing the mandatory pre-learner course and holding your learner licence for at least 3 months, you can now enroll in the pre-provisional course to enable you to acquire a provisional licence this time.

Penalties for Breaking the Rules

Failure to comply with these requirements, you will be subjected to fines, demerit points, licence suspension, or cancellation depending on the severity of your violation.

Adhering to these guidelines will help you hurdle the challenges during the first stage of acquiring a licence to ride a motorcycle.  These are necessary for your safe ride as a beginner and being a responsible motorcycle learner licence holder.