Thinking about getting your motorcycle learner licence in NZ?
Here’s the exact step-by-step process — simple, clear, and up to date for 2026.
Whether you’re brand new to riding or just unsure where to start, this guide walks you through everything you need to do.
Quick Answer: What Are the Steps?
To get your motorcycle learner licence in New Zealand, you must:
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Be at least 16 years old
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Pass a Basic Handling Skills Test (BHST)
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Apply at a driver licensing agent (AA, VTNZ, or VINZ)
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Pass the motorcycle learner theory test
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Receive your learner licence and ride on a LAMS-approved bike
Now let’s break that down properly.
Step 1: Meet the Minimum Requirements
You must:
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Be 16 years or older
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Have valid ID (passport or birth certificate)
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Be medically fit to ride
If you already have a car licence, that helps — but it’s not required.
Step 2: Pass the Basic Handling Skills Test (BHST)
Before you can even sit your learner theory test, you must pass a Basic Handling Skills Test (BHST).
The BHST checks that you can safely control a motorcycle at low speeds.
What the BHST Includes:
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Riding in a figure 8
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Controlled turns
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Emergency braking
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Hazard avoidance
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Slow riding balance
It’s done in a controlled training area — not on the road.
Once you pass, you’ll receive a BHST certificate, valid for 60 days.
👉 Without this certificate, you cannot apply for your learner licence.
Step 3: Apply at a Licensing Agent
Take your BHST certificate to:
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AA
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VTNZ
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VINZ
You will:
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Complete an application
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Sit an eyesight test
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Pay the learner licence fee
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Sit the motorcycle theory test
Step 4: Pass the Motorcycle Theory Test
The theory test covers:
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Road rules
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Motorcycle-specific hazards
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Safe riding techniques
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Lane positioning
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Defensive riding
It’s a computer-based multiple-choice test.
Pass it, and you’ll receive your motorcycle learner licence.
Step 5: Ride Under Learner Licence Conditions
Once licensed, you must follow learner restrictions:
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Ride a LAMS-approved motorcycle
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Display an L plate
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No passengers
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No riding between 10pm–5am
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Zero alcohol limit
Breaking these conditions can delay your progress to Restricted.
What Is LAMS?
LAMS stands for Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme.
It restricts learners to bikes under specific power-to-weight ratios to keep things manageable and safe.
Most modern 250cc–500cc learner bikes are LAMS approved.
How Long Before You Can Sit Your Restricted?
You must hold your learner licence for:
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6 months minimum
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Or 3 months if you complete an approved CBTA course
That’s where structured rider training can fast-track your progress.
Common Questions
Do I Need My Own Bike for the BHST?
No — most training providers supply one.
Is the BHST Hard?
Not if you’ve had proper instruction first. Most fails happen due to lack of preparation, not ability.
Can I Ride Home After Passing My BHST?
No. You must pass your theory test and receive your learner licence first.
The Smart Way to Do It
The most common mistake we see?
People try to “wing it” on the BHST.
The test isn’t about speed — it’s about control, balance, and technique.
A short training session beforehand dramatically improves your chances of passing first time.
Final Checklist
✔ 16 years or older
✔ Pass BHST
✔ Apply at AA/VTNZ/VINZ
✔ Pass theory test
✔ Ride LAMS bike under learner conditions
That’s it.
Simple. Structured. Achievable.
If you’re ready to start your motorcycle journey, getting the foundations right makes everything easier — and safer — from day one.