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Basic Handling Skills Test (BHST) – Everything You Need to Know

If you’re starting your motorcycle licence in New Zealand, your journey begins with the Basic Handling Skills Test (BHST).

This is the very first practical step before you can sit your Learner Theory Test (6L) and officially begin riding on the road. At Passmasters, we help hundreds of riders complete their BHST every year — and this guide explains exactly what to expect, how it works, and how to prepare.

Where the BHST Fits in Your Licence Journey

The Basic Handling Skills Test is Step 1 of your motorcycle licence pathway in New Zealand. It’s the foundation that allows you to move forward toward:

  • Learner Licence (6L)

  • Restricted Licence (6R / CBTA)

  • Full Licence (6F / CBTA)

The BHST is not about becoming an expert rider. It confirms you meet the minimum standard of control and safety required to begin your motorcycle journey.

What Is the Basic Handling Skills Test?

The BHST is a standardised, NZTA-approved motorcycle skills test.

That means:

  • The format is the same everywhere in New Zealand

  • The assessment criteria are consistent nationwide

  • It usually takes 10–15 minutes to complete (including instructions from the trainer)

The test is conducted in a controlled environment (car park or training area) — not on public roads.

The 4 Stages of the BHST

The test is broken into four core skill components:

1️⃣ Accelerate, Turn and Stop

You’ll demonstrate controlled take-off, smooth cornering and accurate stopping.

What instructors look for:

  • Smooth clutch control

  • Head and eye position

  • Correct use of throttle

  • Controlled braking

2️⃣ Parking Manoeuvre

This tests low-speed balance and clutch control.

You’ll:

  • Ride slowly through a confined space

  • Demonstrate precise control without putting your foot down unnecessarily

3️⃣ Linking Figures of 8

This is the coordination test.

You’ll:

  • Perform tight figure-8 patterns

  • Link them together

  • Maintain balance and control at low speed

This stage proves you can manage steering input and throttle together.

4️⃣ Faster Ride (Above 20km/h) + Emergency Stop

The final stage increases speed slightly.

You’ll:

  • Ride above 20km/h

  • Perform a controlled emergency stop

  • Demonstrate correct braking technique

This assesses hazard response and braking control.

How Long Does It Take?

The actual BHST assessment is 10–15 minutes.

The total session time depends on your riding background.

1 Hour Session

Best for:

  • Recreational dirt bike riders

  • Confident riders with clutch experience

Structure:

  • Approx. 10 minutes per stage

  • Direct practice on the four test components

  • Minimal fundamentals required

1.5 Hour Session

Best for:

  • Riders with limited clutch experience

  • Some riding background but need refinement

Structure:

  • First 30 minutes: drills to learn the motorcycle

  • Then stage-by-stage practice

  • Skill development before testing

2 Hour Session

Best for:

  • Complete beginners

  • Never ridden a manual motorcycle before

Structure:

  • Clutch control

  • Starting and stopping

  • Fundamental riding skills

  • Then introduction to BHST stages

We build the foundations first before progressing to test practice.

What Bike Is Used?

Most BHST training at Passmasters is completed on the:

Suzuki GSX150

  • 150cc

  • Single cylinder

  • 4-stroke

  • 5-speed manual gearbox

  • Clutch operated

It’s lightweight, predictable, and ideal for new riders learning clutch control.

What to Expect on the Day

  • Friendly instructor guidance

  • Clear explanation of each stage

  • Demonstration before you attempt it

  • Multiple practice runs before assessment (depending on session length)

  • Calm, supportive environment

Even if it’s wet, the course usually goes ahead.
We only postpone if conditions become unsafe (for example, torrential rain affecting visibility or hearing).

What to Bring

We provide:

  • Helmets (M, L, XL)

  • Gloves (M, L, XL)

You must bring:

  • Long sleeves

  • Long pants (no skin showing)

  • Enclosed footwear

  • Comfortable clothing you can move in

Dress for the weather — especially in winter.

Is the BHST Hard?

For experienced riders, it’s straightforward.

For beginners, it’s a learning process — and that’s exactly what training time is for.

Remember:

Passing the BHST does not mean you’re a master rider.
It means you meet the minimum standard to start riding on the road.

The real learning begins once you’re licensed.

ACC Ride Forever Subsidy

Great news — ACC helps pay for rider training in New Zealand through the Ride Forever Scheme.

You only pay:

  • $20 admin fee (most courses)

  • Or $50 depending on category

This makes professional training extremely affordable.

If you’re eligible, we highly recommend using this subsidy for further training after your BHST.

Why the BHST Matters

The Basic Handling Skills Test is the foundation of:

  • Safe clutch control

  • Slow-speed balance

  • Controlled braking

  • Hazard response basics

It sets you up properly before you enter real traffic environments.

At Passmasters, we focus on building riders — not just passing tests.

Ready to Start?

If you’re looking to complete your Basic Handling Skills Test (BHST) in New Zealand, book with Passmasters and start your motorcycle journey the right way.

Your licence journey begins here. 🏍️