Motorbike Licence Test Near carrum Downs

Mastering the Roads:  A Complete Guide to Obtaining a Learner Permit and Motorbike Licence in Victoria.

Baylink Motorcycle Training Centre - Mornington Peninsula

Embarking on the journey to obtain your full motorcycle licence in Melbourne, Victoria, is an exciting and potentially nerve-wracking experience. Maybe you just thought about your first bike or are just about to.  We receive many queries about motorcycle learner tests, including where to take them and what the process is like at MK1. To address your concerns, we have collaborated with Baylink Motorcycle Training Centre, our valued industry partner, and compiled a detailed guide that provides step-by-step instructions and answers all your questions. This guide will help you get started on the right track.

Table of Contents

1. First step in gaining your motorbike licence: Ensuring eligibility to take the Motorcycle Learners Permit Test

A Motorbike learner status is the starting point for individuals aspiring to ride on the roads in Australia. 

You must obtain a Motorcycle Learners Permit. This permit is a legal requirement, and it’s designed to make sure that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to operate a motorcycle safely. When it comes to owning a valid learner’s permit, it’s not just a matter of following the law or jumping on a bike and taking off. It’s essential to make sure you’re fully prepared for the responsibility that comes with riding. This means taking the necessary steps to ensure your safety and the safety of everyone else on the road. 

 

  • Before obtaining a learner permit, you must be of at least 18 years of age.
  • To be eligible, you must be a resident of Victoria and possess a valid driver’s license or learner’s permit for a car in Victoria.
  • It is also important that you are medically well.  It is worth noting that certain conditions, such as Epilepsy, may require a doctor’s certificate to ensure you are safe to ride. 



Book a Two-day motorbike licence Course (Motorcycle Learner Permit) in Vic.

The two-day motorcycle learners permit course is part of VicRoads requirement for Motorbike Licence and is designed to prepare riders for being on the road independently.

The best recipe for success is finding a suitable Motorcycle training centre with an experienced team. 

 For those on the Mornington Peninsula and surrounding areas, we recommend Baylink Motorcycle Training CentreWe are also pleased to recommend Stay Upright in Braeside. 

Course Costs are generally in the region of $500 to 600 for a two-day Motorcycle Learner Permit Course. This fee often includes all Vic Roads Fees and charges. 

 Your two-day learner Motorcycle Course will include:

  • an eyesight test
  • a learner permit knowledge test 
  • an on-road and off-road assessment

The learner permit knowledge test

The motorcycle knowledge test on road rules specific to motorcycles comprises 32 questions on paper, requiring a 78% pass mark.  This equates to 25 correct answers out of 32.  The motorbike license training emphasises safe riding techniques.

Practice questions for the learner permit knowledge test can be found here. Vic Roads also offers prospective motorbike licence holders an opportunity to do practice tests online.

 

Motorcycle Licence - Learner Permit Course Outline: What skills are required?

Day 1 of the Bike Learner Permit Course

Basic bike riding skills include the control of mirrors, brakes, and gears.

You will be tested on your skills in starting, stopping, turning, and changing gears.

The course will include a discussion on unique motorcycling aspects

You will be introduced to Motorcycle roadcraft tactics.

Many new riders make mistakes when it comes to choosing safe and durable riding gear.  Expert guidance will be given on this. 

Your Motorcycle knowledge will be assessed. 

 

Motorcycle Licence Training in Melbourne
Day 2 of the Motorcycle Learner Licence Course

On the second day of the Learner Permit Course, you will be tested on your slow-speed manoeuvring skills.

Steering and cornering techniques will also be checked. 

You will learn emergency braking strategies

Tips for safe motorbike riding will be discussed during the day. 

The second day of the Motorbike Licence course also includes a simulated road ride. 

Motorcycle assessments will be both Off-road and On-road.

The on-road Motorcycle Permit Assessment:

The On Road section of the Motorbike Licence learners training on day 2 , involves showcasing your motorcycle control skills through previously learned exercises. It’s a real-world evaluation of safe riding behaviours, with the instructor leading a group to assess your ability to manage the motorcycle and understand road rules.

Get ready to hit the road confidently with your newfound skills!

What should you know once you have a Learner Motorbike Licence permit? What now?

Once you have your learner permit, you are allowed to ride a motorcycle independently under certain conditions.

Where do the L plates go on my motorbike.

Motorcycle Learners Permit: Displaying L Plates

Learner riders must prominently display L plates at the rear of their motorcycles. This serves as a signal to fellow road users that the rider is in the learner stage

Learners Motorbike Licence Holders and Speed Limits

While some Australian states impose top-speed limits on learners, Victoria takes a different approach. Learner Motorcycle Licence holders in Victoria can ride on any road at the posted speed limit.

Check out the LAMS scheme for motorcycles suitable for learners

There are restrictions on the type of bike learners can ride. Read More here….

2. How to get your Vic Motorcycle Licence:

After gaining some experience with a learner permit, the next step is often to a probationary licence. You must meet specific requirements before you are eligible to book your Bike Licence assessment test.

1. The minimum motorbike Learner Permit Period is most often three months but can be shorter if you have previously held a motorcycle licence. 

2. After completing the required permit period of holding your Learner Licence,  a Checkride Course is required.  The Checkride Course is to be completed before booking your Full Motorcycle Licence Course and test unless you are converting your Motorbike Licence from an overseas or interstate one. 

  • “The Check Ride” is not just an evaluation but an on-road coaching course that covers a wide range of environments. This 3.5-hour training session is designed to ensure that your journey towards freedom on the open road is a safe ride.

Book your Motorbike Licence test with an approved Motorcycle Training Centre

  • The check ride course is available at most motorcycle training centres and will usually cost in the region of $250 to $300, plus bike hire.  
  • Weekends tend to be more expensive than weekday courses, so book in during the week if you can be available and want to save a few dollars.

Motorcycle Licence Assessment Course Outline:

When you are ready to complete the Motorcycle Licence test in order to gain your Probationary or full Motorcycle licence, you will need to complete both an off-road riding skills assessment and an on-road assessment focusing on safe riding.

During the off-road assessment section of your test, your proficiency in safely handling a motorcycle is evaluated. 

  • This involves demonstrating that you are able to execute a controlled stop. 
  • “It is a requirement that you have the ability to execute a precise left turn.
  • An assessment of riding skills will also include measuring the ability to ride slowly, make changes of direction, navigate curves safely, and stop quickly.

 

Probationary Motorcycle Licence Responsibilities and Restrictions:

The restrictions on a probationary rider in Victoria are largely the same as a learner’s driver. 

  • Probationary riders are required to display P plates on the rear of their motorcycles. These plates signify to other road users that the rider is in the probationary stage.
  • Alcohol for P Plate Motorbike Licence Holders is still illegal. 

The same strict BAC of Zero for learners is enforced for riders on their P plates. Maintaining a zero blood alcohol concentration (BAC) while riding is a non-negotiable rule.

  • The LAMS scheme is applicable.

There are restrictions on the type of bike new Motorbike Licence Holders can ride. (Read More about this).

What kind of motorcycle licence will be granted to me once I have completed both my Learners Permit, Check Course and Motorbike Licence assessment?

P plates for New Motorcycle Licence Holders Vic

Upon successful completion of your bike licence assessment, the type of licence issued—whether probationary or restricted full—depends on various factors:

 

1. If you currently possess a Victorian driver’s licence, the ‘R’ category for motorcycle will be added to your existing driver’s licence.

 

2. For those with a probationary driver’s licence, the motorcycle probationary period aligns with the driver’s licence probationary period, and novice riders are subject to specific restrictions and conditions during a designated time frame.

 

3. If you don’t hold a driver’s licence and are under 21, a four-year motorcycle probationary licence will be issued. The first year constitutes the probationary P1 period, followed by three years of the probationary P2 period, each with corresponding restrictions.

 

4. Individuals aged 21 or older receive a three-year motorcycle probationary P2 licence, accompanied by probationary and motorcycle restrictions.

 

5. Holders of an interstate or overseas motorcycle licence for a minimum of three years after turning 18 will be issued a full motorcycle licence without novice rider restrictions.

 

6. Those who haven’t held a motorcycle licence for at least three years since their 18th birthday and do not possess a driver’s licence will receive a Victorian motorcycle probationary licence, with the duration excluding any period covered by an interstate or overseas licence. This comes with probationary and motorcycle restrictions.

 

The Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS).

In simple terms, the LAMS register, managed by VicRoads, lists approved motorcycles with an engine size of 261 – 660cc. They update it with new models meeting the criteria. Some bikes might be excluded if they aren’t suitable for learners or are frequently involved in crashes.

To be a LAMS Motorcycle, a bike must have the following qualities:

  • Be in its original form from the manufacturer.
  • Not be modified to increase power.
  • Have a power-to-weight ratio of 150 kW per tonne or less.
  • Have an engine capacity of 660cc or less.

Motorcycles with 0-260cc are automatically approved under LAMS, with the exception of a few models. Also, motorcycles made before 1960 with up to 660cc and current fully electric ones are allowed for novice riders.

If you are unsure as to whether your Motorcycle fits these requirements, our team at MK1 Motorcycles will be happy to offer help.  We offer Roadworthy and Pre-Purchase Inspection appointments for your new motorcycle. We value our community and are always available for expert advice.

Stay Safe on your Motorcycle From MK1

Meeting licensing requirements is just the beginning for those looking to embark on their motorcycle journey. It’s essential to emphasise ongoing learning, regular practice, regular motorbike maintenance and a steadfast dedication to safe and responsible riding at every phase.

The information in this article is correct at the time of writing in December 2023.  It is essential that you stay informed by regularly checking the latest guidelines and requirements from VicRoads for accurate and up-to-date information.

Melbourne’s best Motorcycle Workshop is in Carrum Downs. We proudly serve Carrum Downs, Frankston, and neighbouring suburbs such as Sandhurst, Cranbourne, Seaford, and the Mornington Peninsula.

MK1 Motorcycles excels in seamlessly blending professionalism with a family-oriented approach. Our expert Bike Mechanics have extensive knowledge of Dirt and Road Bike Service, Repair, Diagnosis, Roadworthy Certificates, and Motorcycle Tyre Supply and Fitting.

Enjoy the convenience of our affordable pick-up and drop-off services. Unlike dealerships, we prioritise quality over quantity, ensuring personalised service marked by consistent communication and punctual work delivery.