Why take a riding course?

Motorcycle riding requires very different skills to driving a car – which is why you can’t ride a motorcycle on the road using a car driver licence. And before you can even apply for a learner licence, you must prove you have the skills needed to handle a motorcycle. It’s all about keeping you and other road users safe when you’re on the road.

The motorcycle licence system has changed to improve the safety of motorcyclists. Find out what has changed, and what is going to change in the future at Changes to the motorcycle licence system.

Keep in mind that effective learning is a matter of balancing instruction with practice:  instruction draws your attention to new ways of doing things; but only practice will ensure those skills are automatic and readily available the instant you need them. While we have years of experience that is invaluable, there is no substitute for actual time on the bike.

Before you get on the road…

It’s illegal to ride without a current licence – there are severe penalties for doing so. This means you have to get a learner licence before you start riding on the road. You also have to pass an approved basic handling skills test.

Stage 1: Getting your learner licence 

• You must be at least 16 years old before you can apply for your learner licence.
• You have to pass a road rules theory test to earn this licence.

While on a learner licence: 

• You must only ride an approved motorcycle.
• Your motorcycle must display a learner (L) plate – rear only.
• You must not carry a passenger.
• You must not ride between 10pm and 5am.
• You must not tow another vehicle.
• You face severe penalties if you ride outside the licence conditions.

To apply for your restricted licence, you must:

• be at least 16½ years old, and
• have held your learner licence for at least six months.

To progress to this step, you’ll have to pass a practical test of your driving skills.

While on a restricted licence:

• You must only ride an approved motorcycle*.
• You must not ride between 10pm and 5am.
• You must not carry passengers.
• You must not tow another vehicle.

See details on the process for getting your motorcycle restricted licence and the conditions that will apply to you as a novice rider.

*If you were riding a non-approved motorcycle prior to 1 October 2012, and want to continue doing this, you may be eligible to do so. See the DL4 Application for an exemption form for more information.

Stage 3: Getting a full licence

You will need to be at least 18 years of age and have held your restricted licence for at least 18 months before you can apply for your full licence. (This applies to all restricted licence holders, regardless of age).

If you completed an approved advanced driving course (Street Talk or Defensive Driving) prior to 1 October 2012 you may be eligible for an exemption to reduce the minimum period to less than 18 months. See the DL4 Application for an exemption form for more information.

Full licence practical test

To progress to a full licence you have to pass a practical test to demonstrate that you:

• have basic riding skills
• can recognise and respond to a range of common road hazards
• can ride in higher speed zones.

Learn more details about the process for getting your motorcycle full licence and what the test involves.

• have basic riding skills can recognise and respond to a range of common road hazards
• can ride in higher speed zones.

To begin your Bayride Motorcycle Training contact us on 07 5713040 or email today. click here

ACC has created an “all your need to know” website with the support of key partners including motorcycle trainers, retailers (via Motor Trade Association), distributors and clubs as well as the New Zealand Police, Transit New Zealand and Land Transport New Zealand.

Check out – RideForever

• The Ride Forever DVD…

The Ride Forever DVD is about three riders, three judges, the city, the open road and the track. With one-on-one instruction from Aaron Slight. This isn’t a training video or a demonstration of how to ride a bike. It’s more of a tool for riding self analysis. Sign up for your Free DVD today

 Safe riding from the team at Bayride team