Latest

Parliament passes bill to raise age for motorcycle learner’s permits

The Marshall government passes the the Motor Vehicles Amendment Bill 2020 through Parliament, which will change the minimum age of a learner’s permit with exceptions for regional riders.

The Marshall Liberal government passed legislation through Parliament today which includes raising the minimum age of holding a learner’s permit from 16 to 18, with exceptions for regional riders.

Road Safety Minister Vincent Tarzia said the Marshall Government is proud to deliver crucial changes to the motorcycle Graduated Licensing Scheme, and notes that there will be exceptions for regional motorcyclists.

“Our 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,” Tarzia says.

“Exemptions will be in place for regional motorcyclists because we acknowledge access to public transport in regional South Australia can be limited.”

Tarzia says the aim is to protect South Australia’s most vulnerable road users and prevent further lives lost.

“This Bill strikes the right balance between improving road safety outcomes and recognising the limited alternative transport options in the regions,” he says.

“The key changes delivered by this Government will save lives and reduce trauma on our roads.”

The 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 5am 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.

Read more here.

More News

To Top