Learner and P-plate motorcycle riders in NSW will soon face new safety gear rules.

From July 1, learner, P1 and P2 riders will be required to wear approved motorcycle gloves while riding.

Learner riders will also have to wear a high-visibility vest or jacket.

The NSW Government says the changes are the first stage of the biggest motorcycle safety reforms in almost 20 years.

The reforms are aimed at improving rider protection and visibility, particularly for younger and less experienced riders.

Motorcycle licence numbers in NSW have risen by more than 65 per cent over the past 20 years, to more than 690,000.

About 27,000 learner rider licences are issued each year.

Around 40 per cent are held by riders aged under 25.

The number of motorcycle riders aged 16 to 25 killed on NSW roads rose from 12 in 2023 to 17 in 2024 and 21 in 2025.

Preliminary figures show three young motorcycle riders have died on NSW roads so far this year.

Novice rider deaths, involving learner or provisional riders, also rose from nine in 2023 to 12 in both 2024 and 2025.

Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison said learner and novice riders were over-represented in road trauma.

“Protective gear can save your life and lower your risk of injury, with motorcycle gloves almost halving the risk of hand and wrist injuries while high-vis vests make riders easier to see,” Ms Aitchison said.

The government also plans to introduce new online learning modules, expanded theory testing, longer pre-learner courses, group on-road coaching and an optional learning journal.

The changes will be rolled out over several years.