To get a motorcycle (including motor scooters) learner permit in Victoria you’ll need to successfully complete a two-day course. This course is designed to prepare riders for riding on the road. To help you prepare for your test we recommend you read the Victorian Rider handbook [PDF 7.75 Kb].
Your two-day learner course will include:
- an eyesight test
- a learner permit knowledge test
- an on-road and off-road assessment
Your motorcycle knowledge test is a paper-based test consisting of 32 questions. You’ll need to answer 25 questions correctly to pass (78% pass mark).
You’ll receive coaching in safe riding techniques and be progressively trained and assessed. The training is held at an off-road training centre. There will be two assessments involving on and off road at the end of Day 2.
Course outline
Day 1
- Basic riding skills. How to use the controls; mirrors, brakes, gears, etc.
- How to get moving, stop, turn and change gears
- A discussion on the unique aspects of motorcycling
- An introduction to roadcraft tactics
- What to look for when buying riding gear
- Motorcycle knowledge assessment
Day 2
- Slow speed manoeuvring skills
- Steering and cornering
- Emergency braking
- Strategies for safe riding
- A simulated road ride (off-road assessment on the training pad)
- An on-road assessment
On-road assessment
Before you ride on-road you’ll need to show that you have good control of the motorcycle by repeating some riding exercises that you’ve learnt over the course.
The on-road component is a ‘real world’ assessment on safe riding behaviours. The riding instructor will take you out in a group to a pre-determined area to assess your ability to manage your motorcycle and understanding of the road rules. During the assessment, you will take turns to lead the group (including your instructor) through the route. You’ll be familiarised with the route prior to leading. Please note: It is not a navigational exercise, so if you get lost, you will not be penalised.
What to bring
You’ll need to bring the following:
- your original evidence of identity documents
- a completed licence or learner permit application form [PDF 205 Kb].
- long sleeve top and long pants to protect your skin
- closed-in footwear; boots or runners (generally a low heel is best)
- lunch and water. At some locations there’s take-away food shops nearby but it’s a good idea to check beforehand
- protective eyewear e.g. sunglasses. If you’re required to wear prescription glasses, then you must wear them during the course and assessment period
- wet weather riding gear (if applicable on the day)
Your training and testing provider may make available the following items. We recommend confirming with the provider beforehand to confirm their availability.
- fully registered, roadworthy learner approved motorcycle. You can bring your own motorcycle, but it must meet the same requirements
- an approved motorcycle helmet
- an approved high-visibility vest
- eye protection
- wet weather riding gear (if applicable on the day)
The two-day learner course is the same at all training centres across Victoria. The course fee will vary depending on which accredited provider you choose. To make a booking, get in touch with your local accredited training and testing provider.
Once you've successfully completed the course you'll be issued with your motorcycle learner permit card. Your permit is valid for 15 months. There are conditions and restrictions applicable to your permit including the motorcycle engine capacity.
To help you prepare for your motorcycle assessment, we recommend that you:
- read the Victorian Rider handbook, and
- sign up to myVicRoads so that you can check your licence status. If your licence isn’t current, or you have a Fines Victoria (External link) sanction when you take an assessment, the test results won’t be valid and you’ll need to pay for a new test.