Motorcycle Theory Test NZ: Your Guide to Passing First Time
Your motorcycle theory test is one of the final steps before you can legally ride on New Zealand roads. And with the right prep, there’s no reason you shouldn’t pass with confidence.
As the South Island’s largest and most experienced motorcycle training provider, Ornsby Motorcycle Training has helped thousands of Kiwi riders move through their licensing journey with confidence. Our instructors bring over 100 years of combined riding experience to every stage of your training, and we know exactly what trips people up in the motorcycle theory test in NZ.
What Is the Motorcycle Theory Test?
The Licence Theory Test is the second step in getting your motorcycle learner licence, sat after you’ve passed your Basic Handling Skills Test (BHST). It’s a computer-based, multiple-choice motorcycle test that NZ riders complete at any driver licensing agency, such as an AA Driver Licensing outlet.
The test covers 35 questions in total (25 general road rule questions and 10 motorcycle-specific questions), drawn from the official New Zealand Road Code. You’ll need to answer at least 32 correctly to pass. It sounds tough, but it’s entirely manageable with proper preparation, and everything you need to know is in the Road Code itself.
Once you’ve passed both your BHST and your theory test, you’ll be issued a learner licence, allowing you to start riding on the road under learner conditions (displaying L plates and riding LAMS-approved bikes).
Questions in total
General road rule questions
Motorcycle-specific questions
Correct answers needed to pass
Why Preparation Matters
Plenty of riders assume the motorbike test in NZ is a basic formality. In reality, the motorcycle-specific questions catch a lot of people out, particularly regarding right-of-way rules, following distances, and hazard awareness, which differ from general driving knowledge.
Getting proper guidance before you sit your test sets you up not just to pass, but to become a safer rider from day one. That’s the foundation on which our entire training programme is built.
Your Pathway After the Theory Test
Passing your motorcycle theory test is just the beginning. Here’s how the full licensing journey looks:
Basic Handling Skills Test (BHST)
Practical assessment of your fundamental bike control
Motorcycle Theory Test
The Road Code knowledge test covered on this page
Learner Licence
Ride under learner conditions with L plates
Restricted Licence
Progress through CBTA (Competency-Based Training and Assessment) training
Full Motorcycle Licence →
Unrestricted riding, including carrying passengers and riding at night
We support riders at every one of these stages, whether you’re just getting your first motorcycle permit or working towards advanced skills like our adventure motorcycle training courses. It’s a comprehensive programme, from beginner through to advanced, all delivered by the same trusted team from start to finish.
Get Theory Test Ready With Ornsby Motorcycle Training
As New Zealand’s most experienced motorcycle training team, we understand that sitting your motorcycle theory test can feel daunting, especially if it’s your first time on two wheels, or your first time back after years away. Our instructors can talk you through exactly what to expect, point you towards the right study resources, and make sure you walk in prepared.
We do not provide standard restricted or practical riding tests, but we can help you prepare for them and improve your chances of passing.
Get in touch with our Christchurch or South Island team today to find out how we can support your full journey from theory test to full licence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions are in the NZ motorcycle theory test, and how many do I need right to pass?
The test has 35 multiple-choice questions: 25 general road rule questions and 10 motorcycle-specific questions. You need at least 32 correct answers to pass.
Where do I sit my motorcycle theory test in NZ?
You can book, pay for, and sit your theory test at any AA Driver Licensing agency or approved driver licensing agent. You’ll need to have already passed your Basic Handling Skills Test (BHST) beforehand.
Do I need to pass the BHST before I can sit the theory test?
Yes. In New Zealand, you must pass the Basic Handling Skills Test first. Once you have your BHST certificate, you’re eligible to book and sit the Licence Theory Test to complete your learner licence application.
What's the best way to study for the motorcycle theory test?
Everything covered in the test comes directly from the official New Zealand Road Code, so that’s the best place to start. Pairing your study with practical training from an experienced instructor also helps the road rules make real-world sense, rather than just being memorised facts.