Licence Process
Your Journey to a Full Motorcycle Licence
Follow these simple steps to get your motorcycle licence in New Zealand
STEP 1: Learn to Ride
First, you need to learn the basics of riding a motorcycle with gears and a clutch.
Stage 1: New Rider Training (Start Here)
- Perfect for complete beginners or those with minimal experience
- 90-120 minutes of one-on-one instruction
- Learn clutch control, gears, balance, and basic handling
- Includes bike and equipment hire
- Cost: $140 - $250 (depending on area)
Stage 2: Experienced Rider + BHST (After You Can Ride)
- For those who have completed training or already know how to ride
- 1 hour familiarisation followed by Basic Handling Skills Test
- Must already be confident with clutch and gears
- Includes the test for your Learner Licence
- Cost: $210 - $230 (depending on area)
STEP 2: Get Your Learner Licence (16+)
Once you've passed your BHST, complete your Learner Licence by passing the theory test.
- Study the Road Code for motorcycles
- Practice online: Free Practice Questions
- Aim for 32/35 or higher in practice tests
- Cost: ~$95 at AA or VTNZ
- Receive temporary Learner Licence on passing
💡 Pro Tip: Book your theory test only when consistently scoring 32+ in practice tests
STEP 3: Build Your Skills on LAMS Bikes (Learner Period)
Now you can ride! But you must display an L-plate, ride only LAMS approved motorcycles, cannot carry passengers, and cannot ride between 10pm and 5am.
Highly Recommended: Ride Forever Bronze Course
- Full day of on-road training
- Learn positioning, cornering, hazard management
- Perfect preparation for your Restricted test
- Small group with expert instructors
- ACC Subsidised: Only $20!
Minimum time on Learner: 6 months (no minimum time if you complete the LoveMoto CBTA option)
STEP 4: Get Your Restricted Licence
Ready to ride solo without L-plates!
Option 1: CBTA Assessment (Faster)
- No 6-month wait required
- 1-hour competency assessment
- Covers around 40km of varied riding
- Immediate feedback
- Cost: $200
Option 2: Traditional Test
- Must wait 6 months
- Standard NZTA test
- Pass/fail result only
- Book through VTNZ
- Cost varies
✓ With Restricted: No L-plates needed, but still must ride LAMS approved motorcycles, can't carry passengers, and cannot ride between 10pm and 5am
STEP 5: Prepare for Full Licence
Time to perfect your skills for the final step!
Recommended: Ride Forever Silver Course
- Advanced road positioning and cornering
- Hazard management strategies
- Perfect preparation for Full licence test
- Suitable for returning riders too
- ACC Subsidised: Only $50!
Minimum time on Restricted: 18 months (or 12 months with LoveMoto CBTA)
STEP 6: Get Your Full Licence
The final step - complete freedom to ride!
Option 1: CBTA Assessment (Faster)
- Available after 12 months
- 1-hour competency assessment
- Covers around 30km of riding
- Professional feedback included
- Cost: $150
Option 2: Traditional Test
- Must wait 18 months
- Standard NZTA test
- Pass/fail result only
- Book through VTNZ
- Cost varies
✓ With Full Licence: Ride any bike, anywhere, anytime. Carry passengers!
Want to Fast-Track Your Licence?
Our "Fast Lovin' License" combines training and assessment in one day!
- ✓ 2-3 hours intensive one-on-one training
- ✓ Short break to refresh
- ✓ Straight into your assessment
- ✓ Available for Restricted or Full licence
- ✓ Higher success rate with same-day preparation
Cost: From $400
BOOK FAST TRACK PACKAGEYour Timeline at a Glance
Learner
Theory + BHST
6 months
(or immediate with CBTA)
Restricted
CBTA or Test
12-18 months
(12 with CBTA)
Full
Freedom!
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Choose your location and book your first course today!
Still Have Questions?
Check out our comprehensive FAQ section for answers to common questions about licensing, courses, and requirements.
VIEW FAQS