To legally ride a motorcycle or motor scooter in the Australian Capital Territory and most Australian states, you must hold a current rider licence. In 1989 the ACT Government implemented Compulsory Rider Training for learner riders as a road safety initiative. Successful completion of a motorcycle Pre-Learner Rider Training course is required in the ACT to gain a learner rider licence.

Stay Upright Motorcycle Techniques is contracted to the ACT Government to provide Pre-Learner Rider Training and Provisional Licence Assessment services for ACT residents.

How To Obtain Your Motorcycle Learner Licence in the ACT

To obtain an ACT Motorcycle Learner Licence you must:

	be at least 16 years and 9 months of age;
	hold a current (not disqualified or suspended) drivers licence. If you hold an interstate drivers licence you must be an ACT resident and be prepared to convert it to an ACT drivers licence. If you do not hold a licence at all, you must complete the Road Ready Program and pass the road rules knowledge test;
	book and undertake a 9 hour Pre-Learner course through Stay Upright.

What is Pre-Learner Training?
The course is conducted over two consecutive half days on weekends and weekdays (usually Wednesday/Thursday) at the Sutton Road Driver Training Centre near Queanbeyan.  Covering both theoretical and practical aspects of motorcycling the pre-learner syllabus is designed with the novice in mind, that is, we assume no prior riding experience.  Good balance, coordination and a reasonable level of general fitness are all that are required.

Professional instructors will lead you through a series of discussions, demonstrations and riding exercises dealing with the knowledge and skills required to operate a motorcycle safely.  The emphasis of the training is on your safety at all times.

The Pre-Learner course fee covers the use of motorcycle helmet and gloves and a motorcycle or scooter.

Once you have successfully completed the Pre-Learner course you will be issued with a Certificate to present to the ACT Government to gain your learner rider licence.  Your learner rider licence will be valid for two years.

Learner Licence restrictions:

	your blood alcohol concentration must be under .02
	you must not carry a pillion passenger
	you cannot ride a motorcycle with a power to weight ratio greater than 150 kilowatts/tonne
	you must display an L plate
	you must not tow any vehicle or trailer behind a motorcycle or be towed

When planning to ride outside of the ACT it is your responsibility to familiarise yourself with the road laws where you plan to ride.  Expect different restrictions to apply to learner licensed riders in other States or Territories. These differences may include zero BAC, restricted speed limits, motorcycle power to weight ratio limits, engine capacity limits and so on.

What if I have difficulties on the course and don't pass?
We understand the reality that people learn at different paces.  Because each part of the course requires you to demonstrate a specific skill before you progress to the next part, if you have difficulty achieving the required skill level in the time available we cannot allow to proceed on that course.  We encourage you rebook a second course and if that course is completed within 4 weeks of your first, no additional fee is charged.  We also offer you the option of private tuition at additional expense and this may be arranged through the Stay Upright Booking Office.

When do I get my Learner Licence?
When you have demonstrated all Pre-Learner competencies to the required standard you will be issued with a Certificate of Course Completion.  You should present this Certificate within three months to the Dickson Motor Registry or to an ACT Government shopfront to obtain a motorcycle Learner Licence.  A small fee is payable.

And Then?
Your Learner Licence is valid for 24 months.  Practice the riding skills and systems developed on the Pre-Learner course.  You may consider other Stay Upright training courses or private lessons to help you develop your skills.

When you feel you are ready to progress to a provisional level licence, ring the Stay Upright Booking Office.  If for any reason you do not gain a provisional rider licence in the two year period of your learner licence you will need to repeat the Pre-Learner course to renew your learner licence

How do I book a Pre-Learner course?
Bookings are made by telephoning the Stay Upright Booking Office.  Have your driver licence handy when you phone.  Payment in full by credit card or by mailing a cheque or Australia Post money order is required at least seven (7) days prior to your course.  You will be sent a confirmation letter on receipt of payment.

What should I bring to the Course?
Your current driver licence, sturdy clothing that covers your arms and legs and sturdy footwear, sturdy shoes or boots ideally giving good ankle protection.  Bring a hat or cap, a drink and some snacks for morning/afternoon tea.

How do I contact Stay Upright?

For the latest information on course dates and to make a booking, please ring the ACT Stay Upright Booking Office on (02) 6241 3963.

Other Information

ACT Government learner approved motorcycle scheme