What Is LAMS?

The Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS), was launched into South Australian law in November 2005 to lessen the occurrence of road crashes, including motorcycles that result in loss and severe damage. MOTORCYCLE companies are required to grow the number of mid-sized bikes they import as Australia leads to a licensing system that supports them for new riders.

The Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS) is an action that distinguishes motorcycles that are deemed suitable for motorcycle learners and all riders in their first year after growing from a motorcycle learner license. It is intended at enhancing the safety of motorcycle riders. LAMS motorcycles have the highest power to weight ratio of 150 kilowatts per tonne coupled with a maximum engine capacity of 660 cubic centimeters (cc). 

With modern technology emerging in high-performance motorcycles under 250cc, road protection authorities recommend that LAMS is a more reliable way to reduce inexperienced riders. Engine capacity limitations are incapable of limiting inexperienced riders’ way to more powerful motorcycles and thus endanger their safety. Additionally, the Department of Transport (DoT) undertook a state-wide stakeholder conference on motorcycle licensing in 2010. During this Consultation, the active post was reported for the implementation of LAMS in WA. LAMS will improve the range, frame size, and style of proper motorcycles accessible to inexperienced riders in WA.

From 14 January 2013, the Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS) succeeded the 250 cc restriction on R-E class motorcycle license holders with the following criteria:

• a power-to-weight ratio not passing 150 kilowatts per tonne (kW/t); and
• maximum motor capacity not surpassing 660cc.

R-E class license holders

Under the Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS), it is the liability of R-E class license holders to assure that they are only riding on LAMS supported motorcycles.

R-E class learner’s permit holders (How to Get?)

R-E class learner’s permit holders may only get their Practical Driving Assessment (PDA) using motorcycles approved under the Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS).

You will not be allowed to take the Practical Driving Assessment (PDA) if your motorcycle is not LAMS permitted and no returns of payment will be given.

R Class Practical Driving Assessments

Implementation of the Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS) suggests that permitted R class Practical Driving Assessments may just be engaged on motorcycles with a power-to-weight ratio exceeding 150 kW/t or an engine capacity exceeding 660 cc.

Motorcycles between 250 cc and 660 cc, which were newly used for R class Practical Driving Assessments, are no longer suitable to evaluate riding competency for unrestricted R class motorcycles.

If you want to take a practical assessment for an unrestricted R class license, you will need to use a motorcycle that surpasses the LAMS terms. The scheme does not change existing moped or R class, license holders.

If you happen to fail the exam, you can retake the test. Just remember you have to repay the fee each time, so it pays to practice as much as you can. Also don’t forget your motorbike gear! Whether you’re looking for guidance with defensive driving, your practical driving examination or need to be equipped for your expected certification, training to the experts that Pro Driving School Rockingham grants will ensure that you can get behind the wheel with certainty. Rockingham is a great location to learn how to ride, you’ll get to see many of the famous attractions along the way.