What a Class A Learner's Permit Lets You Do

A Class A learner's permit in Ontario authorizes you to operate a motorcycle with an engine larger than 50 cubic centimetres while supervised by a licensed Class A or M rider. You cannot ride alone. The permit is the first step toward a full Class A motorcycle license, and you must hold it for a minimum of 60 days before you can challenge the road test.

This is different from a Class M permit, which covers smaller motorcycles and mopeds. Class A covers standard motorcycles, cruisers, sport bikes, and touring bikes — essentially any motorcycle that is not restricted to learners or limited-speed riders.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 16 years old and hold a valid Ontario driver's license or learner's permit to get a Class A learner's permit.
  • You need to pass a written knowledge test at a ServiceOntario office; the test covers motorcycle-specific rules, hazard recognition, and safe riding practices.
  • The permit costs $158.50 and is valid for five years from the date of issue.
  • You must hold the Class A learner's permit for a minimum of 60 days before you can book and take the Class A road test.
  • While riding on your permit, you must wear a helmet, ride only during daylight hours, and be accompanied by a licensed Class A or M rider aged 19 or older.

Age and License Requirements

You must be at least 16 years old to hold a Class A learner's permit in Ontario. You also need to already hold a valid Ontario driver's license (Class G, G1, or G2) or a learner's permit in any class. If you do not hold a driver's license yet, you must obtain one before you can get a motorcycle permit.

If you are under 18, you will face additional restrictions on your Class A learner's permit. You cannot ride between sunset and sunrise, and your supervising rider must be at least 19 years old. These restrictions lift once you turn 18 or once you pass your Class A road test and receive a full Class A license.

The Written Knowledge Test

You must pass a written test before ServiceOntario issues your Class A learner's permit. The test is administered at any ServiceOntario office and covers Ontario's motorcycle rules, safe riding techniques, hazard perception, and road signs specific to motorcycle operation. The test consists of 40 multiple-choice questions, and you must score at least 80 percent to pass.

You can take the test in English or French. There is no fee for the test itself, but you pay the permit fee ($158.50) only after you pass. You do not need to study a specific government manual — ServiceOntario provides a free Motorcycle Handbook that covers all test content. Many riders also use third-party study guides and online practice tests, though these are optional.

If you fail the test, you can retake it the same day or return on another day. There is no waiting period between attempts, and you can take the test as many times as you need.

Documents You Need to Bring

Bring the following documents to ServiceOntario when you take your written test:

  • Proof of identity (Ontario driver's license, passport, or birth certificate).
  • Proof of Ontario residency (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last three months).
  • Your valid Ontario driver's license or learner's permit in any class.
  • Payment for the permit fee: $158.50 (cash, debit, or credit card accepted at most locations).

If your identity document does not show your current address, bring a separate proof of residency. ServiceOntario staff will verify your information before you take the test. If you do not bring the required documents, you will not be able to test that day.

Restrictions While Riding on Your Permit

Your Class A learner's permit comes with mandatory riding restrictions that you must follow every time you ride. A licensed Class A or M rider aged 19 or older must accompany you at all times. You cannot ride alone, even on a quiet street or parking lot.

If you are under 18, you cannot ride between sunset and sunrise. You must also wear an approved motorcycle helmet at all times — this is a legal requirement, not a recommendation. You cannot carry passengers, and you cannot ride on 400-series highways in Ontario.

Violating these restrictions can result in a fine, demerit points on your driving record, and suspension of your permit. Police officers can stop you to verify that your supervising rider meets the age and license requirements.

How Long You Must Hold the Permit Before Testing

You must hold your Class A learner's permit for a minimum of 60 days before you can book your Class A road test. The 60 days begins on the date ServiceOntario issues your permit, not the date you pass the written test. During this time, you should practice riding under supervision to build your skills and confidence.

After 60 days have passed, you can contact a DriveTest centre to book your road test appointment. The road test itself takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes and includes both off-road maneuvers (in a controlled area) and on-road riding. You must pass the road test to receive your full Class A license.

Your Class A learner's permit remains valid for five years from the date of issue. If you do not pass your road test before the permit expires, you will need to retake the written test and obtain a new permit.

Fees and Processing Time

The Class A learner's permit costs $158.50. This is a one-time fee paid at ServiceOntario when you pass your written test. The permit is issued on the same day you pass, so you can begin riding with a supervising rider when ready after you complete the test and pay the fee.

There are no additional processing fees or hidden charges. If you need to replace a lost or damaged permit, ServiceOntario charges a replacement fee (typically $20 to $30, though this varies). The road test itself is a separate cost charged by DriveTest when you book your appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ride a motorcycle on my Class A learner's permit without a supervising rider?

No. You must have a licensed Class A or M rider aged 19 or older riding alongside you at all times. Riding alone while on a learner's permit is illegal and can result in a fine and demerit points. The supervising rider must hold a valid Class A or M license and be physically present on the road with you.

What happens if I fail the written test?

You can retake the test when ready or on another day at no additional cost. There is no waiting period. You pay the $158.50 permit fee only after you pass. If you fail multiple times, you may want to spend more time studying the Motorcycle Handbook or using practice tests before your next attempt.

Can I ride on 400-series highways with my Class A learner's permit?

No. Learner's permit holders cannot ride on any 400-series highway in Ontario, regardless of age or supervising rider. This restriction is in place for safety reasons. Once you pass your road test and receive your full Class A license, you can ride on 400-series highways.

Do I need to take a motorcycle safety course to get my Class A learner's permit?

No. A safety course is not required to obtain the learner's permit. However, taking an approved Motorcycle Safety Course can reduce your insurance costs and may waive the road test requirement in some cases. Check with your insurance provider and DriveTest to confirm what courses may have access to for these benefits.

What if my Class A learner's permit expires before I pass my road test?

If your permit expires, you must retake the written test and obtain a new permit. You will pay the $158.50 fee again. The new permit will be valid for another five years. To avoid this, plan to book your road test well before your permit expiration date.