When you apply for a motorcycle licence in Victoria you have to comply with all the many rules and regulations for that state. Riding a motorcycle is dangerous since there is nothing between you and the point of impact in an accident; your body will take the full brunt of whatever you hit, whether that is the road or another vehicle. The rules and regulations are there to ensure your skills are such that you will be able to avoid most accidents.

Riding a motorcycle is nothing like driving a car or any other kind of vehicle. So even if you hold a licence for another kind of vehicle you will still need training and practice to ride a motorbike - and to get the licence for doing so. When you drive a car you don't need to worry about keeping balance when cornering or going slowly; with motorbike you do.

It is essential to get proper training right from the start; however, the lessons to get your €Ls€ are for people who can do the basics on a motorbike. They can take off, balance, corner and stop adequately. If you have never ridden a motorbike then you will need to take the pre-learners course to give you these basic skills. Even then, it is good if you can at least ride a pushbike so that you know how to balance.

So, how old do you have to be to get a motorcycle learners permit in Victoria? Eighteen is the required age to do the courses available, so of course, by the time you do them and actually take the test you will be a little older - or perhaps a whole lot older depending on whether you keep up that practice or not. The learners permit is valid for three to fifteen months; after that you must take the test or start again.

One important aspect is to know everything about the theory of riding a motorcycle and so you will need to read the Victorian rider handbook through carefully several times so that you are quite familiar with everything it contains. Passing the theory test is just as important as passing the practical test.

While it may seem like a lot to learn it is well worth the effort as passing the test the first time around will save you time and money. If you have to take it again, you will also have to pay again. And just imagine what fun you will be able to have once you are a licensed rider.