Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS) Guide
Everything you need to know about LAMS in Australia: the best bikes by category, your state's rules, and the complete path from L plates to full licence.
What is LAMS?
The Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS) is an Australia-wide framework that determines which motorcycles are legal to ride on a learner or provisional licence. Instead of a simple engine-size cap, LAMS uses a power-to-weight ratio of no more than 150 kilowatts per tonne combined with a 660cc engine displacement limit.
This means a heavy 650cc cruiser can be LAMS-approved while a small but highly tuned 300cc sportsbike might not qualify. Before you buy, always check the official approved list for your state, as each jurisdiction maintains its own register.
LAMS was introduced to give new riders access to bikes that are genuinely capable, comfortable and safe on Australian roads without the excess power that contributes to learner crashes. A good LAMS bike teaches proper technique and builds confidence before you move to a larger machine.
Top 12 LAMS Bikes by Category
Our editors have ridden and ranked the best learner-approved bikes available in Australia right now.
NNaked Bikes
Honda CB300R
286cc$5,999
Light, torquey and forgiving with sharp modern looks. One of the easiest LAMS bikes to live with daily.
KTM Duke 390
373cc$7,995
Sharp handling, TFT dash and a punchy single that keeps learners engaged without overwhelming them.
Yamaha MT-03
321cc$6,999
Parallel twin smoothness, aggressive stance and proven reliability make this a top pick year after year.
SSports Bikes
Honda CBR300R
286cc$6,499
Full fairing sportsbike feel at a sensible price. Comfortable enough for commuting, fun enough for the twisties.
Yamaha YZF-R3
321cc$7,499
Race-replica styling, 321cc parallel twin and slipper clutch. The benchmark entry-level sportsbike in Australia.
Kawasaki Ninja 400
399cc$7,999
The Ninja 400 punches well above its class with real-world power, great brakes and grown-up suspension.
AAdventure Bikes
Royal Enfield Himalayan
411cc$6,490
Long-travel suspension, upright ergonomics and genuine off-road ability make this ideal for exploring Australian terrain.
Honda CB500X
471cc$9,499
Wind protection, luggage options and a smooth twin engine make the CB500X a genuinely capable touring LAMS bike.
Kawasaki Versys-X 300
296cc$7,999
Lightweight, flickable and comfortable over long distances. A strong choice for riders who want adventure capability early.
CCruiser Bikes
Honda Rebel 300
286cc$6,199
Bobber styling, low seat height and a relaxed riding position. Perfect for new riders who want classic cruiser vibes.
Royal Enfield Meteor 350
349cc$6,990
Torquey single, comfortable long-distance ergonomics and classic looks that age gracefully.
Kawasaki Eliminator 500
451cc$9,499
Twin-cylinder cruiser with proper highway manners and enough power to stay comfortable at 110 km/h.
From L Plates to Full Licence
A step-by-step breakdown of the Australian motorcycle licensing journey.
Get Your Learner Permit
1 day to 2 weeksBook your learner training course (required in most states). Pass the knowledge and hazard perception tests. Receive your Ls.
Ride on Ls
3 to 6 months minimum depending on stateYou must ride a LAMS-approved bike. Display L plates. Most states restrict riding at night and on freeways initially.
Sit Your Practical Test
Half dayBook a MOST (Motorcycle Operator Skill Test) or similar practical assessment. You must demonstrate slow-speed control, emergency braking and hazard avoidance.
Ride on Provisional Licence
12 to 36 months depending on stateStill restricted to LAMS bikes. Some states use P1 and P2 stages with progressive freedom. Blood alcohol limit is zero.
Full Unrestricted Licence
Permanent upon completion of probationary periodAfter your provisional period you qualify for a full open licence. You can now ride any motorcycle legally in Australia.
State-by-State LAMS Rules
Each Australian state and territory has its own licensing timeline. Here is a quick-reference grid.
| State | L Plate Period | P Plate Period | Full Licence | Engine Limit | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NSW | 3 months minimum on Ls, must pass MOST test for Ps | 12 months on P1, 24 months on P2 | 3 years total minimum | 660cc power-to-weight capped at 150 kW/t | Must complete Ls course and hazard perception test |
| VIC | 3 months minimum | 12 months on P1, 12 months on P2 | 3 years total minimum | 660cc or max 150 kW/t | Mandatory Learner Permit course before riding |
| QLD | No minimum, must be 16+ | 12 months on P1, 24 months on P2 | 3 years total minimum | 660cc power-to-weight capped at 150 kW/t | Q-Ride approved course can replace written tests |
| SA | 6 months minimum | 24 months on P1 | 3.5 years minimum | 660cc power-to-weight capped at 150 kW/t | Logbook of 75 supervised hours required |
| WA | 6 months minimum on Ls | 24 months on Ps | 3 years minimum | 660cc or max 150 kW/t | Must pass Hazard Perception Test and Practical Driving Assessment |
| TAS | 3 months minimum | 24 months on Ps | 3 years minimum | 660cc power-to-weight capped at 150 kW/t | No mandatory training course but strongly recommended |
| NT | No minimum period | 24 months on Ps | 3 years minimum | 660cc or max 150 kW/t | NT does not have LAMS as a specific scheme but follows comparable restrictions |
| ACT | 3 months minimum | 12 months on P1, 24 months on P2 | 3.5 years minimum | 660cc power-to-weight capped at 150 kW/t | Mandatory pre-learner course before licence application |
Rules change regularly. Always verify with your state transport authority before making licensing decisions.
Ready to Find Your First Bike?
Browse our full bike reviews section for in-depth tests of every LAMS model.
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