From 1 July 2026, new protective gear requirements will apply to NSW learner riders and provisional P1 and P2 motorcycle riders.
NSW learner riders must wear an approved high-visibility vest or jacket when riding. NSW learner, P1 and P2 riders must also wear approved protective motorcycle gloves.
These changes are designed to improve safety for new riders as they learn to ride and build confidence on the road.
Learner and provisional riders should review the new requirements and make sure they have the correct gear before their next ride.
Quick answer: what gear do NSW learner and provisional riders need?
From 1 July 2026, NSW learner riders need an approved hi-vis vest or jacket and approved protective gloves. NSW provisional P1 and P2 riders need approved protective gloves.
- NSW learner riders: approved hi-vis vest or jacket plus approved protective gloves.
- NSW P1 and P2 provisional riders: approved protective gloves.
- Start date: 1 July 2026.
- Official source: NSW Government protective gear requirements for learner and provisional riders.
Who the new NSW motorcycle gear requirements apply to
The requirements apply to riders who hold any of the following NSW rider licence types:
- Learner rider licence
- Provisional P1 rider licence
- Provisional P2 rider licence
Hi-vis vest or jacket requirement for NSW learner riders
From 1 July 2026, NSW learner motorcycle riders must wear an approved high-visibility vest or jacket when riding.
Approved hi-vis vests and jackets must be labelled or marked by the manufacturer as complying with one of these standards:
- AS/NZS 4602.1:2011 – Class D/N
- AS 4602.1:2024 – Class D/N
- ISO 20471:2013
Zippered front or pull-over style vests are recommended because they are more secure and less likely to open or flap while riding.
Protective glove requirement for NSW learner, P1 and P2 riders
From 1 July 2026, NSW learner riders and provisional P1 and P2 motorcycle riders must wear approved protective gloves when riding.
Approved gloves must be labelled or marked by the manufacturer as complying with European Standard EN 13594:2015.
MotoCAP provides ratings and information on motorcycle protective gear, including gloves, and can help riders compare gear before buying.
Penalties from 1 July 2026
From 1 July 2026, failure to comply with the new NSW protective gear requirements will be an offence for learner and provisional motorcycle riders and may result in fines and demerit points.
We encourage new riders to check their gear now and make sure it meets the required standard before the changes commence.
Frequently asked questions
When do the new NSW motorcycle protective gear requirements start?
The new NSW protective gear requirements for learner, provisional P1 and provisional P2 motorcycle riders start on 1 July 2026.
Do NSW learner riders need to wear a hi-vis vest or jacket?
Yes. From 1 July 2026, NSW learner motorcycle riders must wear an approved high-visibility vest or jacket when riding.
Do NSW P1 and P2 riders need to wear a hi-vis vest or jacket?
The new hi-vis vest or jacket requirement applies to learner riders. Provisional P1 and P2 riders must wear approved protective gloves.
What gloves do NSW learner and provisional riders need?
Approved motorcycle gloves must be labelled or marked by the manufacturer as complying with European Standard EN 13594:2015.
What happens if a NSW learner or provisional rider does not wear the required gear?
From 1 July 2026, failure to comply will be an offence and may result in fines and demerit points.
Where can I read the official NSW Government requirements?
The official details are available on the NSW Government website: Protective gear requirements for learner and provisional riders.
