Motorcycle License Perth | How to Get Your Motorbike License in WA

What You Need to Know When Getting Your Motorcycle License in Perth

So, you’ve decided to learn how to ride a motorcycle — but where do you start? Many beginners assume it’s as easy as riding a bicycle, just with an engine. In reality, getting your motorcycle license in Perth requires more than just balancing on two wheels. It’s about discipline, visibility, observation, and proving that you can meet the Department of Transport’s minimum safety standards.

Starting Out

Before learning to ride, you must be legally entitled to do so. This means:

  • Meeting the minimum age requirements.
  • Holding a valid learner’s permit for the class of motorcycle you’re training on.

The Learner’s Permit Test

The permit test is a computer-based multiple-choice exam with 35 motorcycle-specific questions. You must achieve a pass mark of 28. You can practise using the official sample quizzes (Quiz A, Quiz B, Quiz C) to get familiar with the format.

Minimum Age Requirements

  • Moped (RN): 15 years and 6 months.
  • RE Class (LAMS): 16 years.
  • R Class (Unrestricted): Must already hold an RE license for a minimum of 2 years (no learner’s permit required).

L Plates and Supervision

Learners must always:

  • Display L plates (front and rear).
  • Carry their learner’s permit while riding.
  • Be supervised by a qualified supervisor.

Supervisor requirements:

  • Must be on a motorcycle (can ride as a pillion).
  • Must have held the relevant class (or higher) for at least 4 years.
  • Mopeds may be supervised by a C class (car) license holder with at least 2 years’ experience.
  • A qualified motorcycle instructor certified by the Department of Transport may also supervise.
  • Supervisors must maintain visual contact at all times, and may take responsibility for more than one learner.

Hazard Perception Test (HPT)

You are required to have held your RE Class learners permit for a minimum of 6 months, after which, you will need to do a HPT. This must be successfully completed, prior to doing the PRA. If doing R Class (Unrestricted) then no HPT is required.

Practical Riding Assessment (PRA)

To gain your license, you must complete a PDA, which involves riding on public roads with an assessor following behind. In addition to the road ride, you must successfully complete:

  • Ride to the stadard as set by the Department of Transport
    • Demonstrate riding competency (general riding)
    • Obey all road rules and regulations (road rules)
    • Low-speed manoeuvres (O turns).
    • Quick Stop/Simulated Emergency Stop (emergency braking exercise).
    • Hill Park/Start (parking on a hill and pulling away)

Failure to perform these safely, or committing a traffic violation, will result in a failed assessment.

Final Notes

Learning to ride in Perth is about more than controlling the bike — it’s about discipline, awareness, and safe decision-making. Once you meet the age and licensing requirements, pass the learner’s test, and complete your supervised training, you’ll be ready to prove your skills in the practical assessment.

For more information about lessons and preparation, contact BikeSAFE Motorcycle Training Perth via our Contact Us page.