GET YOUR LEARNER LICENCE

Author: Sarah @ MetalGear   Date Posted:19 August 2021 

GET YOUR LEARNER LICENCE main image GET YOUR LEARNER LICENCE image

You pull up to the set of lights and hear the rumble of a motorcycle rider as they cruise up beside you. You glance over, they look so effortlessly cool, don’t they? The aesthetically pleasing motorcycle gear, all black everything bike with glistening chrome highlights. The traffic light goes green, the motorcycle rider takes off. You watch in awe as they pull away and the car behind you pounds the horn because you haven’t moved, awaking you from your daydream.

 

It doesn’t have to be a fantasy! Here’s how to get your motorcycle licence and some tips to develop your skills

First up, you must apply for an RE learner licence. To get your RE learner licence in Queensland you must be medically fit, hold a provisional or open car licence and have held the licence for at least 1 year. Believe it or not, on-road driving experience does help you learn to ride.

You must then successfully complete the Q-Ride pre-learner course which is designed to help you gain basic riding knowledge and motorcycle handling skills before you graduate to learning to ride on the road. This course will take you through all the basics like protective riding gear (that’s right, it’s not all about looking good it’s also about SAFETY) and good roadcraft.

After you’ve completed your Q-Ride pre-learner course, it’s time to get tested! New riders must pass a motorcycle knowledge test after they complete the Q-Ride pre-learner course. Don’t try and cut the line, you can only complete the knowledge test AFTER you have taken a Q-Ride pre-learner course. QGOV have even given you a helping hand by creating a little practice motorcycle knowledge test which you can do online. From there it’s as simple as applying for your RE learner licence.

If you pass – CONGRATULATIONS – Once you have been issued with your RE learner licence you can now start learning to ride a motorcycle on the road! Make sure to take a moment to sit and admire that additional class on your new licence, what an achievement.

 

Some top tips to help you learn to ride

Invest in good quality riding gear!

This is your only protection when riding your motorcycle. Yes, you’ll feel like a not so sexy Michelin Man on two wheels but this gear could save your life and prevent serious injuries.

Develop your roadcraft

Observation, speed management, road position and attitude all play a part when riding your motorcycle. Develop these skills – HARD!

Keep it local and keep it quiet

Local streets, parking lots and quiet industrial areas are your friend. Find quiet areas for you to practice road riding before hitting those busy streets.

It’s not all about going fast

Practice slow riding! This tip is often overlooked. There’s so much to take in when you’re learning to ride your motorcycle, so it’s easily overlooked. Slow riding is a vital skill to have to ensure you’re always in control of your motorcycle, regardless of the traffic conditions.

Maintenance

You bought it, you maintain it. Basic maintenance skills and troubleshooting are vital to keeping your machine roadworthy and safe.

Keep an eye on our website for the next article in this series – “What is a LAMS Approved Motorcycle?”

 

For more information on how to get your motorcycle licence in Queensland, visit the links below;

www.qld.gov.au/transport/licensing/motorcycles/getting/learner

www.qld.gov.au/transport/licensing/motorcycles/getting/learning

streetsmarts.initiatives.qld.gov.au/motorcycles/motorcycle-skills

 

Find a Q-Ride training provider

www.qld.gov.au/transport/licensing/motorcycles/getting/trainer

The information contained in this article was obtained from the Queensland Government website https://www.qld.gov.au/transport/licensing/motorcycles/getting/learner and is correct as of 19th August, 2021. Please visit https://www.qld.gov.au/transport/licensing/motorcycles for up to date information and amendments.