Learner and provisional rider rules
Learner and provisional riders face extra rules because new riders are most at risk in their first years. These limits cover the bike you ride, who you carry, alcohol, plates, speed and lane filtering.
The details vary by state. This page sets out the NSW and Victorian rules as worked examples and explains the national-style LAMS limits that most states use.
By the end of this topic you can
- You can list the main restrictions on learner and provisional riders.
- You can check whether a bike is allowed for your licence stage.
- You can display the right plate in the right place.
- You can explain why these limits exist.
What you need to know and understand
- To be on the LAMS list, a bike must have an engine of 660cc or less and a power-to-weight ratio of no more than 150 kW per tonne.
- A LAMS bike loses its approved status if it is modified in a way that adds power. WA treats any modification as non-compliant.
- NSW learner and P1 riders must not exceed 90 km/h, even where the limit is higher.
- NSW learner and P1 riders must not carry a pillion passenger, must not lane filter and must have a zero blood alcohol level.
- Victorian learners must wear an approved high-visibility vest or jacket and keep their headlight on.
- Victorian restricted licence holders must ride a LAMS bike, carry no pillion and keep a zero blood alcohol level.
Which bikes novices may ride
LAMS stands for Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme. A bike only counts if its exact model and variant appears on the official approved list for your state. NSW works out power-to-weight by dividing engine power by the bike's tare weight plus 90 kg for rider and fuel. WA uses the NSW list. Check the list before buying, and keep the bike in original form.
NSW and Victoria side by side
Queensland, WA, SA, Tasmania, the ACT and the NT have their own plate, speed and passenger rules, so always check your state road authority.
- NSW learner: black L on a yellow or orange plate at the rear, 90 km/h maximum, no pillion, zero alcohol, no towing, no lane filtering, no mobile phone use while riding or stopped in traffic.
- NSW P1: red P plate at the rear, 90 km/h maximum, no pillion, zero alcohol, LAMS bike only, no lane filtering.
- Victoria learner: L plate visible from 20 metres, approved high-visibility vest or jacket, headlight on at all times, LAMS bike, no pillion, zero alcohol, no lane filtering.
- Victoria restricted licence: LAMS bike, no pillion, zero alcohol.
Why the limits are there
A pillion changes how a bike brakes, turns and balances, which is hard for a new rider to manage. Lower power gives you more time to learn throttle control. Zero alcohol matters because even small amounts slow reactions and affect balance. Following the limits keeps you safe while your skills grow, and breaking them can mean fines, demerit points and delays to your next licence stage.
Common mistakes
- Assuming a bike is LAMS-approved because it is small. Check the exact model on the list.
- Adding performance parts that cancel the bike's LAMS status.
- Placing the L or P plate where it is hidden by a bag or number plate bracket.
- Giving a friend a lift on the back while still on a learner or P1 licence.
Test yourself: Learner and provisional rider rules
Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.
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Sources: Transport for NSW rider licence pages: learner rider licence, getting your rider licence, rider provisional P1 licence (nsw.gov.au); Transport Victoria motorcycle licence and learner permit pages (transport.vic.gov.au); Transport for NSW Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme fact sheet; Transport Victoria motorcycles for learner and restricted riders. Independent guide, not affiliated with any licensing agency. Always check the latest official rules with your state or territory road authority.