Motorcycle learner riders face new laws from 1 July. Image: Generated by AI.
New safety rules for NSW learner and provisional motorcycle riders will be rolled out from 1 July.
Under the changes, learner drivers will have to wear a high visibility vest or jacket. Learners and riders on P1 and P2 plates must wear approved motorcycle gloves while riding.
Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison said the life-saving reforms aimed to help lower the road safety risks of novice motorcyclists.
The number of young motorcycle riders aged 16-25 years who died on NSW roads increased from 12 in 2023 to 17 in 2024 and 21 in 2025. At least three young riders have died so far this year.
Novice motorcycle rider deaths, which includes those with learner or provisional licences, also increased from nine in 2023 to 12 in 2024 and 2025.
“We know the data shows learner and novice riders are over-represented in road trauma compared to fully licensed riders,” Ms Aitchison said.
“The introduction from 1 July of the requirement that all novice riders must wear motorcycle gloves and learners must also wear a high-vis vest or jacket will help increase safety for our inexperienced riders.
“Protective gear can save your life and lower your risk of injury, with motorcycle gloves almost halving the risk of hand and wrist injuries while high-vis vests make riders easier to see.
“I am urging all novice motorcyclists to gear up ahead of July – visit a local store to get your gloves and an approved vest or jacket.
“These changes are just the start of our safety reforms; we have listened to the experts and closely examined what the statistics show us.
“If you’re not sure what to buy, visit Motocap for more information.”
Over the past 20 years, the number of motorcycle licences issued in NSW has risen by more than 65 per cent to more than 690,000.
Each year, around 27,000 learner licences are issued, with about 40 per cent of those held by riders under 25.
As well as the mandatory safety gear changes, the government also plans to introduce:
- New online learning modules and knowledge testing, to expand theory requirements
- Extended pre-learner course, increasing training with experienced riding instructors, allowing for more and improved learning outcomes and skill development
- Group on-road coaching and assessment, bringing NSW into line with best practice in other states
- An optional learning journal to support novice riders in planning rides appropriate to their skill level and encouraging self-reflection.
The government says the rollout of the reforms will be staged over multiple years to allow for system development, detailed program design, industry-wide communication and preparation of training providers.
For more information about the new rules visit the NSW Government website.
