Rules for riders

Road rules are developed for your safety. Make sure you know and follow these rules at all times.

Keeping left

For riders on single-lane roads, the rule of staying near the left side doesn’t apply. Lane positioning is crucial for your safety, permitting you to legally use any part of the lane.

Helmet compliance

All Queensland motorcycle riders and their passengers must wear a helmet that complies with Australian standards (AS/NZS1698, ECE Standard 22.05 or AS1698).

Pillion passengers

A motorcycle passenger is called a pillion passenger. You must be holding a R provisional or open licence or at least one year to carry a passenger. You must hold an RE provisional or open licence for at least one year before you can carry a pillion passenger. You can carry a pillion passenger as soon as you get your R licence.

Parking

When parking you should position the motorcycle so at least one wheel is as close as possible to the kerb or side of the road.

Motorcycle control

You must stay in control of your motorcycle at all times. That means sitting with a leg on each side. Only adjust your leg position or raise yourself if needed.

A motorbike visible in the rear view mirror

Lane filtering

Lane filtering is allowed when travelling at 30km/h or slower and when it’s safe to do so. Fines of more than $480 may apply if lane filtering is done improperly.

Edge filtering

If you hold an open licence for the motorcycle you are riding, you can ride on road shoulders and in emergency stopping lanes on major roads during certain circumstances at 30km/h or less.

Safety gear

Riding without safety gear is a risk never worth taking. Whether you’re going for a short ride or a long trip, you must always protect yourself. Check out MotoCAP to help you choose the safest purpose-made riding gear which suits you.

Improve visibility

Dress to be seen by choosing gear that maximises your visibility — wear light or brightly coloured clothing, a fluorescent vest, or use reflective strips.

To find out more about individual motorcyclist rules and penalties visit the Department of Transport and Main Roads website.

6 common causes of motorcycle crashes

There are many different risk factors and causes for crashes.

Speed

The faster you go, the harder you hit. And on a bike, you’ll always come off second-best. The only thing speeding gets you closer to is a crash.

Bartender fills schooner with 'Job loss bitter' logo on it with beer from a tap

Alcohol

Even small amounts of alcohol can affect your riding ability. If you’ve had a few drinks, don’t get on the bike in the first place.

View from inside the car onto the road when the driver is influenced by drugs

Drugs

Drugs dull your senses, impair your judgement and delay your reaction time. If you plan on taking drugs, don’t take the handlebars.

A curvy road with a sign stating 'Beware of stock'

Distractions

At 80km/h you travel 44m in just 2 seconds, so stay focused and leave time and space to react.

Fatigue

Riding tired affects reaction times and impairs judgement. Take a break or don’t get on the bike if you’re tired.

Gear and maintenance

Look after yourself and look after your bike. The right gear and regular maintenance can save your life.

Motorcycles quick quiz

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More resources

Getting your licence

Getting your Queensland motorcycle licence is an exciting idea. Find out how to here.
Learn more

Learner Approved Motorcycles (LAM)

As an RE licence holder (learner, provisional, and open), you can ride a learner approved motorcycle.
Find a motorcycle

Motorcycle Riders Guide

This guide contains important information on getting a motorcycle licence, road rules, protective gear, low-risk riding tips and techniques, risk management and registering a motorcycle.
Download the guide