Motorcycle Graduated Licensing Scheme reform passes Parliament

Today legislation has passed through Parliament making changes to how young people can gain a motorcycle license.

New legislation -- the Motor Vehicles (Motor Bike Driver Licensing) Amendment Bill 2020, is designed to protect South Australia's most vulnerable road users and prevent further lives lost. 

The Bill passed through the Legislative Council with support from all parties. 

The significant reforms raise the minimum age for a learner's permit and R-Date licence (comparable to a provisional driver's licence) by two years. 

Importantly, exemptions will be in place for regional motorcyclists because it is acknowledged access to public transport in regional South Australia is limited. 

The key changes include: 

LEARNER'S PERMIT

Minimum age:

• increase from 16 to 18
• 17 if holding a provisional car licence
• 16 if living in regional SA and travelling for education, work, or sport

Restrictions:

• Zero alcohol
• No passengers
• Prohibited from towing
• No riding between midnight and 5 am if under 25
• Restricted to motorcycle with automatic transmission only if tested on one

Period on learner's permit:

• Minimum 12 months in all circumstances

R-DATE LICENCE CLASSIFICATION

Minimum age:

• Increase from 17 to 19

Restrictions:

• Zero alcohol
• Restricted to motorcycle with automatic transmission only if tested on one

Period on an R-Date classification:

• 2 years

R LICENCE CLASSIFICATION

Minimum age: 

• Increase from 18 to 21

Restrictions: 

• Restricted to motorcycle with automatic transmission only if tested on one

The Government's Bill is based on recommendations from an expert report provided by the Centre for Automotive Safety Research (CASR) and is strengthened by input from key road safety stakeholders, motorcycle groups and industry representatives.