Stage 2 · CBTA 6R
Progress to your Restricted motorcycle licence
Complete a CBTA 6R assessment with an NZTA-approved Passmasters assessor and demonstrate that you can ride safely, consistently and independently in real traffic.
CBTA Restricted overview
A practical assessment of real-world riding
The CBTA pathway allows you to progress without using the six-month learner holding period and separate restricted practical-test route. You must still meet NZTA age and application requirements when applying for your Restricted licence.
- Ride with an approved assessor following on another motorcycle
- Demonstrate observation, planning and hazard response
- Show safe road positioning and speed selection
- Maintain smooth, controlled motorcycle operation
- Receive feedback at the end of the assessment
Eligibility
Before you apply for your Restricted licence
NZTA requires you to be at least 16½ years old and to hold a current motorcycle learner licence. You can then use either the CBTA route or the separate practical-test route.
Hold a Class 6L learner licence
Your licence must be current and you must continue following all learner conditions until the Restricted licence is issued.
Be assessment-ready
You should be comfortable riding independently in traffic, maintaining legal speeds and applying safe roadcraft without prompting.
Meet the age requirement
You must be at least 16½ to apply for a Restricted motorcycle licence, even when using a CBTA certificate.
What the assessor is looking for
Safe decisions, not a perfect performance
The assessment focuses on whether your riding is consistently safe and competent across normal road and traffic situations.
Observation and planning
Mirrors, head checks, hazard awareness, forward planning and selecting safe gaps.
Position and speed
Appropriate lane position, following distance, corner approach and legal speed choice.
Communication
Clear signalling, positioning and riding that makes your intentions predictable to others.
Motorcycle control
Smooth braking, acceleration, steering, gear use and stable low-speed control.
Motorcycle and equipment
Bring a suitable road-legal bike
Your assessment motorcycle must be registered, warranted, roadworthy and LAMS approved. You also need appropriate protective riding gear.
Your own motorcycle
Check tyres, lights, indicators, mirrors, horn, chain, brakes and fluid levels before arriving. An unsafe bike may prevent the assessment proceeding.
Hire a Passmasters bike
Hire may be available at Hobsonville, Pukekohe, Hamilton or Tauranga for $45. Riders must be 21 or older and availability must be confirmed in advance.
Protective gear
Wear an approved helmet, gloves, sturdy enclosed boots, long trousers and a protective jacket suitable for road riding.
Assessment locations
CBTA Restricted across Auckland, Waikato and Bay of Plenty
Availability varies by date and assessor. Search the live calendar for the latest options.
Prepare before you assess
Training options that improve your readiness
An assessment is not a coaching session. Book preparation when you want feedback before committing to the test.
ACC Ride Forever Bronze
A full-day subsidised course that develops road positioning, observation, cornering and safer decision-making for learner and returning riders.
Bespoke CBTA preparation
Target the specific areas you need to improve with one-to-one coaching before your assessment.
After passing: take your CBTA 6R certificate to a driver licensing agent, complete the application requirements and pay the separate NZTA application fee.
Restricted licence conditions
What changes after you get your 6R
You no longer need an L plate, but other restrictions remain until you gain your Full licence.
Riding hours
You can ride on your own between 5am and 10pm.
No passengers
You cannot carry a passenger on your motorcycle, moped or in a sidecar.
LAMS only
You must continue riding a LAMS-approved motorcycle.
No towing
You cannot tow another vehicle while riding on a Restricted licence.
CBTA 6R FAQs
Common questions before booking
Do I need to hold my learner licence for six months?
Not when using the CBTA route. The six-month holding period applies to the separate restricted practical-test pathway. You must still be at least 16½ to apply for the Restricted licence.
Is training included in the $185 assessment?
No. The booking is an assessment. Book Bronze or bespoke preparation first when you want coaching and feedback.
Can I use a hire bike?
Yes, at selected locations and subject to eligibility and availability. Confirm the motorcycle hire when booking.
What happens if I do not meet the standard?
The assessor will explain the areas that need improvement. You can undertake additional coaching and book another assessment when ready.
Ready for your Restricted?
Find a CBTA 6R assessment
Search current dates and locations, or contact Passmasters when you need advice about readiness or bike hire.