From 1 July 2026, there are new mandatory motorcycle gear requirements for learner and provisional riders. The new requirements are part of significant reforms to the Motorcycle Graduated Licensing Scheme (MGLS). The aim of the requirements is to protect novice riders and save lives.
In 2024, 68 riders and passengers were killed on NSW roads, a 34 per cent increase from the previous year. Motorcyclists remain 34 times more likely to die in a crash than other road users.
Motorcycles make up just 3.8 per cent of registered vehicles. However, they account for almost 20 per cent of road deaths.
Learner and provisional riders face the highest risk on NSW roads. Crash data reveals that learner riders are more than seven times as likely to be killed in a crash compared to fully licensed riders.
Hence, alongside extending the pre-learner course, introducing new online learning modules and knowledge testing and using group on-road coaching and assessment, certain NSW riders will now also be required to comply with more extensive gear requirements.
High Visibility Vest or Jacket for Learner Riders
As of 1 July 2026, learner riders must wear an approved high-visibility (hi-vis) vest or jacket when riding. It is also recommended to wear a protective motorcycle jacket underneath the vest or jacket for added protection in the event of a crash.
To be approved, vests and jackets must be labelled or marked by the manufacturer as complying with one of the following standards:
- AS/NZS 4602.1:2011 – Class D/N
- AS 4602.1:2024 – Class D/N
- ISO 20471:2013
Such vests and jackets can be found in motorcycle retailers or workwear stores.
Protective Gloves for Learner and Provisional Riders
From 1 July 2026, leaner and provisional rides (P1 and P2) must wear approved protective gloves when riding.
To be approved, the gloves must be labelled or marked by the manufacturer as complying with European Standard EN 13594:2015.
The following link has been provided by the NSW Government as a source to find gloves which meet this standard: MotoCAP Rated Gloves | MotoCAP
Penalties
Failure to comply with these gear requirements is an offence, and will incur fines and demerit points.
As a learner and provisional (P1) rider, you have a demerit point limit of 4 points. If you reach this limit, a 3 month suspension period applies. As a provisional (P2) rider, you have a limit of 7 points with the same 3 month suspension period. On a full (unrestricted) rider licence, there is a demerit point limit of 13, with suspension periods depending on the amount of points incurred.
As a rider, it is important to be aware of the pre-existing gear requirements and other applicable road rules. In particular, the requirement to wear a motorcycle helmet when riding and complying with speed limits. These offences will attract double demerits during holiday periods.
Motorcycle riders in NSW should always consult the following handbook provided by Transport for NSW to ensure they are riding safely, and comply with all the applicable road rule and requirements: Motorcycle Rider Handbook
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Written by Ruby Bickford.
