Restricted Licence Restricted Licence

Restricted Licence

The second stage in getting your Motorcycle Licence is getting your Motorcycle Restricted Licence. There are two ways to get this licence. Let’s take a look at what you need to do.

What you need to know about your Restricted Licence

You must:

  • be at least 16½ years old to get your restricted licence.
  • not carry any passengers on your motorcycle or in any sidecar.
  • not tow another vehicle.
  • only ride a LAMS approved motorcycle.
  • have held your learner licence for at least 6 months.

You can only drive on your own between 5am and 10pm.

Find out more about Restricted motorcycle licence conditions

Pre-test checklist

6 must do’s before you arrive for your Restricted Motorcycle test

  1. Have you completed all requirements of the test application process?
    - Completed your DL1 application form?
    - Sat an eye exam or provided a relevant certificate?
    - Paid for your test?
  2. Do you have your Learner Licence with you for the test? This should be your photographic licence or if you’re on a temporary licence, you’ll need to bring your current New Zealand passport or two other approved forms of identification. More information about identification is in our FAQs.
  3. Have you checked your motorcycle has:
    - A current Warrant of Fitness (WoF)?
    - A current rego (vehicle licence)?
    - An approved L plate displayed on the rear of the motorcycle?
  4. Have you practised? It is recommended that you have at least 120 hours practice before your test so that you feel confident and capable.
  5. Have you double checked when and where your test is? Make sure you know how to get to your test location and how long it takes to get there. It’s a good idea to arrive at least 30 minutes before your test. If your test is the first of the day, check what time your test location opens as you may not be able to enter until your test time.
  6. Have you checked your fuel? Make sure that the motorcycle you’re doing your test on has enough fuel to get to your test location, complete the test and then get back home.

There are two options for getting your Restricted Licence

Option 1: Complete a Competency Based Training Assessment

You can do the assessment any time after you gain your Learner Licence as long as you are 16 ½ years of age or older.

When you’ve completed the assessment, you can bring your certificate into one of our VTNZ Driver Licensing branches and apply for a Motorcycle Restricted Licence. You won’t need to sit a practical test.

Option 2: Sit a practical test

You will need to practise riding for at least six months before applying for a Motorcycle Restricted Licence and sitting a practical test in a LAMS-approved motorcycle. If you need more time, you can practise for up to five years.

 Prepare for option two in four easy steps:

A. Get a riding instructor

It’s a good idea to find an experienced rider who can take you through the learning process with patience. You can get training with any qualified motorcycle riding instructor. The Ride Forever website is one place to find and book training at the level you require.

B. Practise for your test

There are some great resources available to support you in developing your practical motorcycle driving skills

While you are practising for your Motorcycle Learner Licence you must:

  • Attach a Learner (L) plate onto the rear of your motorcycle when riding
  • Only ride between 5am and 10pm each day
  • Not carry any passengers, either on your motorcycle or in a sidecar
  • Not tow any vehicles
  • Only ride LAMS-approved motorcycles
C. Complete your application

You can book your test online, over the phone or in person, but you need to come in a driver licensing branch to complete the rest of your application.

You can book:

In the branch you will:

  • Fill out the application form (if you haven’t already)
  • Complete an eyesight screening check or present your eyesight certificate
  • Have your photo taken and provide your signature for your licence
  • Book a time to do your test
  • Pay for your test – check the NZTA website for the current cost

What to bring with you:

  • Your current Motorcycle Learner Licence.
  • If you’re using a temporary licence then you also need to bring your current New Zealand passport or New Zealand photographic licence or another accepted form of identification.
  • Your filled out application form – you can do this ahead of time download the application form here
  • A medical certificate (if required)
  • Any prescription glasses or contact lenses you currently wear
D. Sitting your test

The Motorcycle Restricted Licence test will involve riding in a series of different situations and at different speeds. The testing officer will also check your motorcycle before the test to ensure it is roadworthy. To pass the test you will need to be able to:

  • Safely ride in high speed zones (up to 100km/h)
  • Safely merge, change lanes and indicate
  • Identify potential hazards and respond appropriately

Re-sitting your test

Don’t worry if you don’t pass on the first go – you can always try again. Your testing officer will explain why you weren’t successful and what you should work on before re-sitting your practical riding test. You will still be able to practise on your Learner Licence.

When you’re ready to re-sit your restricted test you will need to make another booking and pay the additional test fee.

What happens when I pass?

Your testing officer will congratulate you and supply you with a temporary licence to use while your photographic licence is being posted in the mail. You can now begin practising for your Motorcycle Full Licence.

Any further questions?

  1. Check our frequently asked questions to see if your question has been answered.
  2. Visit the NZ Transport Agency or call their Driver Licensing helpline on 0800 822 422.

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