Pre-learner and rider training courses

By the end of this topic you can

• You can explain why pre-learner training exists.
• You can describe what a typical first course covers.
• You can name the main course or scheme in NSW, Victoria and Queensland.
• You can prepare properly for your first day of training.

What you need to know and understand

• In NSW the pre-learner course runs for 7 hours, usually 3.5 hours a day over 2 days for motorcycles and scooters.
• In NSW you can attend the pre-learner course from 16 years and 6 months, and the certificate is valid for 3 months.
• NSW training is competency-based: you must show each skill to pass.
• People in some remote parts of NSW (unserviced areas) can skip the pre-learner course, though it is still encouraged.
• In Victoria, the two-day learner course includes an eyesight test, a knowledge test and on-road and off-road assessments.
• In Queensland, Q-Ride is the training and assessment scheme run by approved providers.

What happens on a first course

Courses start in a closed area, such as a car park or training range, away from traffic. Trainers show you each skill, then you practise until you can do it reliably. In NSW, the training centre provides the motorcycles, helmets and gloves, but you should still wear sturdy clothing and boots.

• Getting on and off, and moving the bike safely
• Using the throttle, clutch, gears and both brakes
• Moving off, stopping smoothly and slow riding
• Turning, looking where you want to go, and head checks
• Basic hazard awareness and protective gear

How the state schemes compare

WA, SA, Tasmania, the ACT and the NT run their own schemes, so check your state road authority for current course rules.

• NSW: pre-learner course first (in serviced areas), then the Rider Knowledge Test. Later, a pre-provisional course includes the Motorcycle Operator Skills Test (MOST) before P1.
• Victoria: a two-day learner course leads to the learner permit. Later, a half-day check ride gives coaching on braking, steering and low-speed control before your licence assessment.
• Queensland: if you live within 100 km of a Q-Ride training area, you usually do the pre-learner course first. If you get an exemption, you must hold the learner licence for 12 months instead of 3 months.

Getting the most from training

Arrive rested and ready to listen. Ask questions if you do not understand an instruction. Training is not a race: smooth, careful control matters far more than speed. If you find a skill hard, ask the trainer for extra practice or another session before you book a test.

Common mistakes

• Turning up in shorts and trainers. Wear long, tough clothing and boots that cover your ankles.
• Rushing low-speed skills. Slow control is the base for everything else.
• Letting the pre-learner certificate expire before passing the knowledge test.
• Skipping extra practice after the course and booking the next stage too early.

Test yourself: Pre-learner and rider training courses

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