The motorcycle skills and road test

By the end of this topic you can

• You can name the skills or road assessment used in your state.
• You can describe the kinds of skills assessors look at.
• You can check you have met the minimum learner time before booking.
• You can plan practice that matches what will be assessed.

What you need to know and understand

• In NSW serviced areas, the pre-provisional course includes the MOST; in unserviced areas you take a riding test at a service centre.
• In NSW you must be at least 17 and have held the learner licence for at least 3 months before getting P1.
• In Victoria you need a learner permit for at least three months before the licence test, and a check ride at least one month before it.
• In Queensland you complete the Q-Ride course or pass the Q-SAFE riding test after passing hazard perception and holding the learner licence for the minimum time.
• Assessors look at control, observation and safe decisions, not speed.

Skills the assessor watches for

Exact test items vary by state and course, but most assessments look at the same core abilities. Practise each one until it is smooth and repeatable, not just possible on a good day.

• Slow riding and tight turns without putting a foot down
• Smooth gear changes and throttle control
• Controlled braking using both brakes, including stopping in a set space
• Head checks and mirror use before moving off, changing lanes and turning
• Safe lane position, gap keeping and speed choice in traffic
• Giving way correctly and obeying signs and signals

Getting ready for test day

1. Confirm you meet the minimum age and learner time for your state.
2. Check your bike is roadworthy, registered and on the approved novice list if required.
3. Wear an approved helmet and full protective gear.
4. Do a warm-up ride before the test to settle your nerves.
5. Listen carefully to each instruction and ask if anything is unclear.

If it does not go to plan

Many riders do not pass first time. The assessor will tell you which skills fell short. Take that feedback to your trainer, practise those exact skills, and rebook when you are confident. Rules for rebooking and retest fees vary by state, so check with your road authority or course provider.

Common mistakes

• Forgetting head checks. Mirrors alone miss the blind spot beside you.
• Grabbing the front brake hard. Squeeze both brakes progressively.
• Looking down at the front wheel in slow turns. Look where you want to go.
• Riding too fast to impress. Assessors reward control and safe judgement.

Test yourself: The motorcycle skills and road test

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