The information in this section relates to the restricted practical riding test and the full practical riding test.

Note: you need to provide a motorcycle to sit the test, so if you don’t have a motorcycle of your own, you’ll need to borrow one. The motorcycle must be a LAMS-approved motorcycle, needs to be capable of achieving 100km/h and must not be a moped or an ATV.

List of LAMS-approved motorcycles

Test day checklist

On the day of your test, you should:

  • check that your driver licence is still current and that you have it with you. (You must always carry your driver licence with you when you drive.)
    If you are using your current temporary licence, you also need to provide acceptable photographic ID (eg 18+ card, student ID, current or expired passport).
    Your licence must not be defaced, altered or otherwise tampered with. The testing officer needs to match the photo to the individual and read the licence number etc.
  • make sure the vehicle being used for the test displays:
    • a current warrant of fitness (WoF)
    • a current licence label
    • an approved L plate displayed on the back, if you are on a learner licence
  • get someone to help you to do a pre-ride check of the vehicle you will be using for the test to make sure it is in good working order
    Pre-ride vehicle check 
  • make sure you know how to get to where your test will start
  • check that your vehicle has enough fuel to get there, complete the test and get back home
  • wear your correcting lenses, if you need to when riding
  • make sure you give yourself enough time to get to the test location on time for the test. If you are late, your test will be cancelled and you will need to book another time
  • make sure your vehicle is not displaying trade plates.

Note: if you don’t comply with any of the points mentioned on the previous page, the testing officer won’t be able to take you for your test.

If you do not have the skills to complete the practical tasks to the required standard, you will fail the test. If the testing officer is unable to take you for the test or if you fail the test, you will need to rebook.

When you get to the test location

When you first arrive at the location of your test, the testing officer will need to check your driver licence to verify your identity and see if you have any special requirements on your licence. The testing officer will hold on to your licence during the test.

The testing officer will do a pre-ride check of the motorcycle you have provided for the test. They will check that:

  • there is no obvious damage to the vehicle that could be considered dangerous
  • the tyres have a legal tread depth and have no uneven wear, and the wheels appear undamaged
  • all the indicators and brake lights work correctly and all lenses are intact
  • the low beam or daytime running lights operate if your motorcycle was manufactured on or after 1 January 1980
  • the horn works
  • the vehicle licence, registration and WoF are current
  • the mirrors are in the correct position for you to see behind.

They will also check that your helmet is in safe condition.

Before the test, the testing officer will run through some basic instructions for the test and ask you if you have any questions.

How is the test conducted?

The testing officer will give you instructions and follow you in a car or on a motorcycle.