Motorcycles, quad bikes and scooters

Scooter safety

You must hold a class R rider licence to ride a scooter in the Northern Territory (NT).

Scooters are small motorcycles, similar to a Vespa. Scooter engine sizes vary from 50ml to 650ml.

To get a learner rider licence, you will need to pass a rider theory knowledge test and complete either a:

  • balance and stability skills test (MOST) or
  • pre-learner motorcyclist education training and licensing (METAL) course.

Before you start riding, you should always check your scooter and make sure you have the right protective clothing.

You must also obey the same road rules in the NT as other road users. If you don't follow any of these rules, you may face a traffic offence or penalty.

Check your scooter

You should make sure you get your scooter regularly serviced.

Make sure there are no fluid leaks and the oil and water levels on your scooter are correct.

Check your lights, brakes, steering, horn and tyres.

Check your protective clothing

You must wear an approved helmet when riding on the road or on a public place in the NT. Helmets must meet Australian standards.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission also has more information on helmets.

It's also recommended that you and your passengers should wear protective clothing.

The following list includes 10 basic tips for riding safety gear:

  • cover your whole body
  • use impact protectors over your joints
  • protect your skin with abrasion-resistant material in vulnerable areas
  • check the seams on your gear
  • check that all fastenings are secure and protected from contact with the road or other surfaces in a crash
  • avoid external pockets or straps that could become tear points or snag on something in a crash
  • use insulated, waterproof and windproof materials
  • use reflective or light colours and ventilation to protect you from heat
  • check that all your gear fits you properly
  • don't carry anything in your pockets that could cause injury in a crash.

For more information on riding gear, read the Good Gear Guide PDF (3.1 MB).

Safe riding tips

Remember the three second rule - keep a safe distance when following other vehicles – also make sure you keep a safe distance at your back and sides.

Reduce your risk of crash - a low risk rider has good observation, speed management, road positioning, decision making and hazard perception skills.

Select a safe gap when turning, overtaking or changing lanes is a critical skill to safe riding.

Be aware of potential hazards including blind corners, blocked intersections, crests, poor weather conditions, other road users tailgating you and maintain a crash avoidance space.

Position for curves and bends - starting curves wide will improve your vision.

Check road conditions and weather reports and adjust your journey if necessary.

Be careful at T-intersections.

Moped riding

Mopeds are small, light vehicles that may be two or three wheeled. Mopeds have:

  • a piston engine with a maximum engine capacity of 50ml
  • a maximum speed of 50km/h.

If you hold a current learner driver licence dated before 1 August 2019, you are allowed to ride a moped. However, you are encouraged to get training.

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