About the course

What is the Basic Handling Skills Test?

The Basic Handling Skills Test (BHST) is a mandatory practical assessment required before you can sit your Motorcycle Learner licence theory test. It's a structured, practical test completed in a controlled environment.

At Revs, we teach you every manoeuvre in a step-by-step format — from your very first time in the saddle through to final sign-off. All training bikes are provided. You don't need your own motorcycle.

No motorcycle required

Controlled environment

4 stage test

NZTA approved

What you'll cover

The four stages of the BHST

The BHST consists of four stages, each one building on the last. Your Revs instructor will guide you through every stage and is alongside you the whole way.

BHST course layout diagram showing circles A, B and C with cone positions

The course uses three circles (A, B and C) laid out on a flat surface with cone markers. Refer to this diagram as you read through each stage below.

Basic Turn & Stop

Stage 1

Mount the motorcycle, start the engine, signal, and move off from the parking space, turning left onto the course. Accelerate along the straight to about 20 km/h, then slow and signal to turn right around circle C. Come to a complete stop after exiting circle C, turn the engine off, and remain seated. Remember to check your blind spots when moving off and when turning right.

Mounting & starting Signalling Blind spot checks Controlled stop

Figure of 8 and Park

Stage 2

Start the engine and ride straight towards circle A. Turn right around circle A, riding through the middle between circles A and B, staying left of the centre marker. Ride straight, passing the place you started from, then turn left around circle C. Ride straight and stop near circle A, then reverse park to your left between circles A and B. Turn the motorcycle off, put the side stand down, and dismount.

Figure of 8 pattern Centre marker awareness Reverse parking Safe dismount

Linking Figure of 8's

Stage 3

Get on to the motorbike, start the engine, and move off to the right. Go around the top of circle C, then complete 2 full figure of 8s around circles B and C — keeping left of the centre marker each time you pass through the middle. On the third time around circle C, ride straight ahead and stop between circles A and B. Turn the motorcycle off and stay seated. You only need to signal when you move off.

Linked figure of 8s Centre marker discipline Smooth transitions Controlled stop

Increased Speed & Emergency Stop

Stage 4

Start the motorbike and move off, turning right around circle A. Increase speed to 20 km/h. Ride at a safe speed turning right around circle C, then increase speed to 20 km/h again. When the instructor signals, stop the motorbike as quickly as possible while maintaining full control. If you are not travelling fast enough coming out of circle C, the instructor will signal you to ride around again.

Speed to 20 km/h Emergency braking Full control Instructor signals

Inclusions

Everything that's included

Expert Instructor

Your dedicated Revs instructor is with you every step of the way — guiding, correcting, and building your confidence throughout.

Training Motorcycle Provided

Revs supplies a well-maintained training motorcycle for the full session. You don't need to own or bring your own bike.

NZTA BHST Sign-Off

Upon passing all exercises, you receive your official BHST sign-off — a mandatory requirement to complete your learner licence theory test.

Pre-Course Information

We'll brief you on what to expect before the day, including what to wear and what to bring. Helmets and gloves are available if needed — just let us know when you book.

Safe Controlled Venue

All training takes place in a secure, controlled environment — no traffic, no pressure. Just you, the bike, and your instructor.

Flexible Scheduling

Sessions run regularly throughout the week. If you need to reschedule, just let us know and we'll find a date that works for you.

Before you book

Entry requirements

No Motorcycle Experience Needed

The BHST is open to complete beginners. You do not need any prior riding experience to enrol — our course is designed to take you from zero.

Current Valid NZ Photo ID

You'll need to present valid NZ photo ID on the day. A current NZ driver licence or passport is accepted. Check NZTA accepted ID ↗ If you don't have these please contact us to check alternative forms of ID.

Appropriate Clothing

Wear long pants, covered shoes, and a long-sleeved top. Helmets and gloves are provided by Revs free of charge.

Basic HandlingSkills Test