The motorcycle licence route

By the end of this topic you can

• You can describe the three main stages of a rider licence.
• You can explain why the steps and ages vary by state.
• You can find which courses and tests apply in your own state.
• You can explain what a learner approved motorcycle is and why novices must ride one.

What you need to know and understand

• A motorcycle licence is separate from a car licence, even though some states require you to hold a car licence first.
• In NSW you must be at least 16 years and 9 months old to get a learner rider licence, and you do not need a car licence.
• In Victoria you must be 18 or older to get a motorcycle learner permit.
• In Queensland you must have held a provisional or open car licence for at least one year before starting on a motorcycle learner licence.
• Novice riders in most states must ride a bike from the learner approved motorcycle list (LAMS).
• Waiting times on each stage, and the tests used to move up, vary by state.

From L plates to a full rider licence

Think of the route as three stages. On a learner licence you build basic control and road sense, with strict limits on speed, passengers and bike size. On a provisional or restricted licence you ride alone but still have extra conditions. A full licence removes the novice restrictions, although you still follow the road rules like every other rider.

1. Complete any required pre-learner training and pass a knowledge test to get your learner licence or permit.
2. Hold the learner licence for the minimum time, practise, then pass a riding assessment or skills course.
3. Ride on a provisional or restricted licence for the set period, keeping to its conditions.
4. Move up to a full (unrestricted) rider licence once the period is complete.

Three states, three different routes

The examples below show how much the details vary by state. WA, SA, Tasmania, the ACT and the NT each have their own versions, so always check your state road authority.

• NSW: pre-learner course (in serviced areas), Rider Knowledge Test, then a learner licence from 16 years and 9 months. After at least 3 months on the learner licence and from age 17, you can move to P1, then P2, then a full licence.
• Victoria: from 18, a two-day learner course gives you the learner permit. You need the permit for at least three months, plus a half-day check ride at least one month before your licence assessment.
• Queensland: you need a car licence held for a year first. You then do pre-learner training (unless exempt), pass the motorcycle hazard perception test, and complete Q-Ride or Q-SAFE to get an RE licence. After at least two years on RE you can move up to class R.

Why the bike you ride matters

Most states limit learner and newer riders to motorcycles on an approved novice list, often called LAMS (Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme). These bikes have an engine of 660cc or less and a limited power-to-weight ratio. Your licence stage, not just your age, decides which bikes you may ride, so check the list before you buy.

Common mistakes

• Assuming another state's ages or waiting times apply to you. Always check your own state road authority.
• Buying a powerful bike before you are allowed to ride it. Check the approved novice list first.
• Forgetting that time spent suspended may not count towards your learner or provisional period.
• Booking a test before finishing the minimum time on your learner licence or permit.

Test yourself: The motorcycle licence route

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.

Go deeper

• Automatic Licence Conditions in Each Australian State
• Cost of Getting a Licence in Australia
• Driving in Australia on an Overseas Licence