Introduction
If you want to teach an unlicensed person to ride a motorcycle in return for money or reward, you need to hold a riding instructor licence.
Before you can get an instructor licence, Transport for NSW (TfNSW) first needs to be assured that:
- you meet the eligibility criteria
- you've passed the initial theory test.
Once the above requirements are confirmed, TfNSW will send you a 'Letter of Eligibility'. You then need to enrol in an instructor training course with a recognised training provider.
During the course you'll be required to pass 2 practical riding tests with a 100% result:
- pre-learner rider test
- Motorcycle Operator Skills Test (MOST).
When you successfully complete the course TfNSW will make their final determination as to your suitability to hold an instructor licence.
You can submit your initial application online or at a service centre and have 6 months to meet all the requirements.
If you need more than 6 months you'll have to lodge another application. You will not require a new medical assessment, or to re-sit the theory test unless they were undertaken more than 18 months prior.
Eligibility
To be eligible you must:
- be aged 21 or over
- hold a current full (unrestricted) Australian rider licence (Class R)
- have held the unrestricted licence for a minimum of 3 of the last 4 years
- hold, or have evidence you are applying for, an employee WWCC number
- be a fit and proper person – PDF
- have a safe riding record (parking offences excluded)
- be medically fit to ride.
What you need
You'll need:
- to have had a commercial medical assessment – PDF no more than 6 months prior
- to successfully complete the rider instructor knowledge test, in English and without interpreter assistance (there are 90 questions in this knowledge test)
- your rider licence
- a secondary proof of identity document (if you hold an interstate rider licence)
- if you haven't held a NSW rider licence for more than 5 years, you'll need to provide a full riding record/history from the authority in the state or country where you previously held your rider licence
- a digital photo of yourself, or
- 2 passport size photos (if applying at a service centre)
- the PDF form – 'Application for Licence under Driving Instructors Act 1992' (if applying at a service centre).
How to apply
Apply online
- Check the eligibility requirements.
- Select the 'Apply online' button.
Note: You cannot save and resume your application once you've started. - Follow the prompts to submit your application.
You'll receive a confirmation message with a reference number and a copy of your application via email. If you do not receive the email within 30 minutes call (02) 8848 8700 and quote your reference number.
If you have not heard from TfNSW after 10 working days, call (02) 8848 8700.
Apply in person at a service centre
- Check the eligibility requirements.
- Download and complete the Application for Licence under Driving Instructors Act 1992 – PDF.
Note: Do not sign it – your signature must be witnessed at the service centre. - Visit a service centre and submit your application.
More information
- Fees are payable for the:
- riding instructor knowledge test
- pre-learner rider training course
- Motorcycle Operator Skills Test (MOST)
- non-refundable 5-year driving instructor licence
- Motorcycle instructors must be accredited by Transport for NSW to instruct in the NSW Rider Training Scheme.