Skip to contentR T A logo
Roads and Traffic Authority, N S W text image
Motorcycle
Home > Licensing > Getting a licence > Motorcycle
In This Section

Learner rider licence

Provisional (P1) rider licence

Full rider licence

About the training courses


Related links:

Approved motorcycles for novice riders

Training centres

Motor registry locations

Licence fees

Getting a motorcycle rider licence

On 11 March 2009, Premier Nathan Rees announced the introduction of a new licensing scheme for motorcycle riders to help reduce the number of beginner riders involved in crashes.
Mr Rees said that young and inexperienced riders are significantly over-represented in crashes.
“Motorcyclists aged under 20 are almost five times more likely to crash than other motorbike riders,” Mr Rees said.
“Last year, around 350 beginner riders were involved in crashes across the State.
“That’s why we are introducing this scheme which will be similar to a motor vehicle licence extending the minimum provisional period for motorcycle riders from one to three years.”
Mr Rees said that the changes will be introduced in June and mean that riders will stay on a provisional licence for a minimum of three years with the same P1 and P2 phases as car drivers.
“Provisional rider restrictions will now be in place for a longer period giving riders time to gain confidence and experience on the road.
“The restrictions for P1 drivers are a zero blood alcohol limit, a maximum speed restriction of 90km/h and a loss of licence for incurring four or more demerit points.
“For P2 drivers it also means a zero blood alcohol limit, a maximum 100km/h speed limit and a licence suspension for their second speeding offence.
“This is about saving lives and reducing the number of people injured on our roads by ensuring riders gain more experience.”
Roads Minister Michael Daley said that currently riders must hold a learner licence for a minimum of three months before attending a pre-provisional course.
“They must then be on a P1 provisional licence for a minimum of 12 months before applying for a full licence,” Mr Daley said.
“The minimum three year period on a provisional licence will raise the age for getting an unrestricted rider licence from 18 to 20.
“The provisional P1 phase will be a requirement of all riders, regardless of age but there will be an exemption from the P2 phase for riders over 25 who also hold an unrestricted car driver licence.
“This exemption recognises car driving experience and brings NSW in line with other States.”

Motorcycle Rider Training Scheme

Before obtaining a motorcycle rider licence, you must successfully complete the Motorcycle Rider Training Scheme. This scheme is designed to help people gain basic riding skills before riding on the road.

The training and testing is provided at training centres, located across metropolitan and country areas. There is a full list of training centres on this website or call the RTA on 13 22 13 for your nearest centre.

There are two levels of training - pre-learner and pre-provisional. Both levels involve on-road and off-road training.

Who must do rider training?

If you live in an area where there is a training centre you must attend and satisfactorily complete rider training and testing prior to being issued with a learner or provisional rider licence. Areas covered by the scheme are called 'declared areas'. Applicants who have previously held a provisional or an unrestricted rider licence are exempt from rider training courses.

If you do not live in a declared area, you will not be required to undertake the compulsory rider training. However, you can take it voluntarily.

How to book your rider training courses

  1. Pay the rider training enrolment fee at your nearest motor registry and keep the receipt, or if you have a Visa or MasterCard, pay by calling the RTA on 13 22 13.  For a schedule of training fees use the 'Licence fees' related link.
  2. To book a course visit myTests on this site or visit a Motor Registry or call the RTA on 13 22 13 (option 3). 
    The booking officer will ask you to quote the receipt number relating to your enrolment fee. Bookings can only be made through the RTA and not through the training providers. You will be given information about the training course and a joining letter will be sent to your home address.

Note: If a scooter is required for training please nominate the type of motorcycle at the time of booking.

How to obtain your licence in an undeclared area

To get a learner rider licence, go to your nearest motor registry and:

  • Take your proof of identity documents.
  • Complete an application form.
  • Pass an eyesight test.
  • Pay and pass the rider knowledge test.
  • Pay the licence fee.

To get a provisional rider licence, go to your nearest motor registry or online at myTests or call the RTA on 13 22 13 and:

  • Pay for and make a booking for your riding test.
  • After you have passed the test  pay the licence fee.

Geared.com.au

If you're a young rider, visit GEARED.com.au to find out everything you need to know about getting and keeping your licence.

Riders aged 85 years and over should call the booking office on 13 22 13 to book an aged test.

More information

Further information for applicants for a motorcycle licence is contained in the Motorcycle riders' handbook.

Files

Motorcycle Riders' Handbook

This handbook contains important information about riding techniques, how to cope with hazards and selecting and maintaining your motorcycle. Please read it carefully.

Getting your motorcycle licence

Information on the Graduated Licensing Scheme for motorcycles.

Back to top

getting a motorcycle rider licence