News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – Licensed motorcycle schools can now administer the written motorcycle driving test to participants enrolled in their safety courses.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has created a significant backlog for driving written tests, including tests for motorcyclists,” said Service New Brunswick Minister Sherry Wilson. “Working with our partners at the Department of Public Safety, we have come up with a solution to allow motorcycle schools in New Brunswick to administer the written test at the end of the course instead of having participants come to Service New Brunswick centres.”

A vision test, which is normally a requirement of a motorcycle licence, will be waived for one year. Motorcycle schools can start offering the written test beginning July 18. Tests will still be offered at Service New Brunswick centres, and there are plans to provide online options for driving written tests in the future. The regular $25 test fee will still apply when taking a test at either a service centre or at a school.

“As a motorcycle rider myself, I understand the frustration that people are feeling at not being able to get out on their motorcycles after they have taken the safety course,” said Wilson. “It is a short riding season, so this is a good solution for now.”

There are nine licensed motorcycle training schools throughout the province. Participants are advised to check with schools directly to confirm whether the test is offered at their location. Participants who have already completed the safety course can still take the written test if their school is offering it.

Safety course participants who do not already have a Class 5 driver’s licence must book the written motorcycle test through a Service New Brunswick office.

New Brunswick introduced a graduated driver’s licence program for motorcyclists in 2015. The program is 12 months in duration, and includes the following criteria:

• The minimum age of entry is 16 (applicants under 18 years of age must have consent that is witnessed by a non-relative).
• Participants must successfully pass an approved motorcycle driver training course.
• Participants will be required to pass a vision screening and their written, basic and sign tests.
• There is zero tolerance for alcohol or drug use for the duration of the graduated driver’s licence program regardless of age.
• Participants cannot drive from sunset to sunrise.
• Participants will not be permitted to tow a vehicle as defined in the Motor Vehicle Act (such as a trailer).
• Participants cannot have any passengers on their motorcycle for the duration of the graduated driver’s licence program.
• Participants must have their motorcycle graduated driver’s licence for 12 months without interruption.
• Participants must successfully pass an on-road test before becoming fully licensed.