Everything you need to know about the motorcycle learner permit in Ireland

The rules of the road and especially the road regulations are getting more complex recently and I'm finding that there's a lot of mis-understandings out there with our customers.

So, you want one of these eh? Then read on.

I'm constantly getting asked about the motorcycle learner permit (previously known as the provisional licence) in Ireland so I thought I type out the facts:

1. you must pass a theory test BEFORE you can get a learner permit
2. you must have a learner permit (provisional motorcycle licence) before you can ride a motorcycle on the road
3. you get your learner licence before doing your Initial Basic Traininig (IBT)
4. you can't ride on the road unsupervised until you do your IBT
5. you must wear a learner bib at all times when using a motorcycle learner permit
6. a learner motorcycle licence only lasts 2 years in Ireland
7. to get a third learner permit motorcycle licence in ireland you must attempt your test (or be seen to have it booked)
8. you are not allowed to carry pillion passengers with a learner permit
9. you are not allowed to ride on a motorway
10. if your old licence has expired for more than 5 years you must re-sit the theory test and start at the beginning
11. a motorcycle learner permit will cost you €35
12. the new permit is on a nice little card - so no more shabby bits of paper as a licence

Now you can ride on the road legally and six months later you can sit your full test (but not before).

depending on your age you can get different versions of the motorcycle licence

How do I apply for my motorcycle learner permit?

Download Form D201 or grab one in your local tax office (if you like punishing yourself) and post it off (details on the form)

What do I need when applying for my motorcycle learner permit?

1. a filled out form D201
2. two mug shots
3. birth cert or passport (unless you meet some requirements)
4. your theory test cert
5. eyesight report D502
6. and the MONEY!

They make it easy - eh?

get used to looking at one of these until you pass your test - if ever there was encouragement!

So to recap, here's the order of tasks to get yourself legal with a motorcycle learner permit in Ireland:

1. pass your theory test
2. apply for a learner permit
3. complete your IBT(Initial Basic Training)

Some useful contacts for getting a motorcycle learner permit:

Road Safety Authority

Motor Tax Office

Disclaimer - this information is as correct as possible at the time of writing (August 2013). We're not responsible for anyone who doesn't keep it legal!

Need any help getting your permit?

We're (Allmoto) not experts on road licencing but we know someone who is - contact Aidan if you need any help. And when you need your parts - remember us!