Thinking about getting your motorcycle licence in Zambia but not sure where to start? Whether you have just bought your first bike, want to learn to ride safely, or are planning to turn motorcycle riding into a career, getting the correct licence is an important first step.
The good news? Getting a motorcycle driving licence in Zambia is a straightforward process when you understand the requirements, licence classes, tests, fees and practical steps involved.
This complete 2026 guide explains how to get a motorcycle driving licence in Zambia, what you need before applying, how the RTSA process works, and how proper motorcycle riding lessons can help you become a confident and responsible rider.
Motorcycle Driving Licence in Zambia: Which Class Do You Need?
Before applying, you need to know which motorcycle licence class applies to the bike you intend to ride.
Under Zambia’s current driving licence classifications:
- Class A1 – Light motorcycles with an engine capacity of 125cc or less.
- Class A – Motorcycles with an engine capacity above 125cc.
- Class B1 – Motor-powered tricycles and quadricycles.
The minimum age for both A1 and A motorcycle licences is 16 years under the current regulations.
So, for example, if you want to ride a 110cc motorcycle, A1 may be the appropriate category. If you’re planning to ride a 150cc, 250cc, 600cc or 1000cc motorcycle, you need to look at Class A.
The important thing is not to assume that having a licence for another type of vehicle automatically gives you permission to ride any motorcycle.
Requirements for a Motorcycle Licence in Zambia
According to the Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA), applicants for a provisional riders licence need:
- A medical certificate
- Proof of identity, such as an NRC or passport
- To be at least 16 years old
- Payment of the applicable provisional licence fee
RTSA currently lists the provisional riders licence fee as K117, the practical driving test fee as K87, and printing of the licence after passing the practical test as K144.
Keep in mind that government fees can change, so it is always wise to confirm the current amount with RTSA before making payment.
Step-by-Step: How to Get a Motorcycle Driving Licence in Zambia
1. Make Sure You Meet the Age Requirement
For motorcycle riding, you can apply from 16 years of age.
If you are under 16, you will need to wait before applying for the motorcycle provisional licence.
2. Get Your Medical Certificate
A medical certificate is one of the requirements listed by RTSA for a provisional riders licence.
The purpose is to establish that you are medically fit to operate a motorcycle.
3. Apply for Your Provisional Riders Licence
The provisional licence allows you to begin the process of learning and testing for your motorcycle licence.
RTSA currently lists K117 as the fee for the provisional riders licence.
RTSA has also introduced online services through ZamPortal, including provisional driver licence applications for additional classes and practical driving test booking.
4. Study for the Theory Test
Don’t underestimate the theory side of the licence.
Knowing how to balance a motorcycle is only one part of becoming a licensed rider. You also need to understand road signs, traffic rules, road positioning, hazards and responsible road behaviour.
Spend time studying:
- Road signs
- Traffic lights and road markings
- Right-of-way rules
- Speed limits
- Overtaking
- Defensive riding
- Motorcycle safety
- Basic road regulations
- Hazard awareness
Think of the theory test as learning the rules of the game before entering the pitch.
5. Take Motorcycle Riding Lessons
This is where professional training can make a huge difference.
A motorcycle can look simple to operate, but controlling the clutch, throttle, brakes and steering simultaneously takes practice.
A good motorcycle riding school should help you develop skills such as:
- Starting and stopping smoothly
- Clutch and throttle control
- Gear changes
- Braking correctly
- Turning and cornering
- Slow-speed control
- Emergency braking
- U-turns
- Observation and hazard awareness
- Correct road positioning
- Riding in traffic
- Defensive riding techniques
Don’t simply practise until you can move the motorcycle. Practise until you can control it safely and confidently.
6. Take the Practical Motorcycle Test
Once you’re ready, you can take the practical driving test.
RTSA currently lists the practical test fee for a provisional riders licence as K87, with the practical test occurring seven days after obtaining the provisional licence according to its published requirements.
During your preparation, your instructor should help you practise the skills you are likely to need during the assessment.
The goal isn’t just to “pass the test.” The real goal is to develop habits that will keep you alive when you’re riding alongside cars, buses, trucks and other motorcycles.
7. Get Your Motorcycle Licence
Once you successfully complete the required testing process, RTSA lists the licence printing fee for the riders licence at K144.
Congratulations — you are now on your way to becoming a properly licensed motorcycle rider in Zambia.
But remember: passing your motorcycle test doesn’t mean you’ve finished learning.
Every ride is another opportunity to improve your road awareness and riding technique.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Motorcycle Licence in Zambia?
Based on RTSA’s currently published 2026 fees, the main listed charges are:
| Requirement | Current listed fee |
|---|---|
| Provisional Riders Licence | K117 |
| Practical Driving Test | K87 |
| Licence Printing | K144 |
| Total listed RTSA fees | K348 |
This K348 does not necessarily represent your total cost because you may also have expenses for the medical certificate, motorcycle riding lessons, transport and other associated costs.
Government fees can also be revised, so verify the latest charges before applying.
Do You Need Motorcycle Riding Lessons?
Technically, you may be able to learn the basic operation of a motorcycle yourself. But there’s a big difference between knowing how to ride a motorcycle and knowing how to ride one safely.
A professional instructor can identify mistakes you may not notice yourself.
For example, you might think you’re braking correctly until an instructor points out that you’re relying too heavily on the front brake during a particular manoeuvre. Small corrections during training can prevent serious mistakes later.
Professional training is especially useful for complete beginners.
Motorcycle Riding School in Woodlands, Lusaka
If you’re in Lusaka and looking for practical motorcycle riding lessons, we have a motorcycle riding school based in Woodlands, Lusaka.
Our training is designed for people who want to learn motorcycle riding properly — whether you’re a complete beginner or someone who already rides but wants to improve their skills and prepare for licensing.
The school is run with practical training and guidance from Keith Mvula, motorcycle instructor.
If you’re interested in motorcycle lessons, licence preparation or simply want to learn how to ride safely before getting on the road, you can contact Keith directly.
📱 WhatsApp Keith – Motorcycle Instructor
+260 772 699 856
Send a WhatsApp message to enquire about:
- Motorcycle riding lessons
- Beginner motorcycle training
- Practical riding preparation
- Motorcycle licence preparation
- Training schedules
- Location in Woodlands, Lusaka
Tips for Passing Your Motorcycle Driving Test
Want to increase your chances of passing?
Practise slow-speed control
Many new riders are comfortable when travelling quickly but struggle when moving slowly. Practise controlling the motorcycle smoothly at low speed.
Learn proper braking
Understand how to use both brakes correctly and progressively. Don’t wait until the last second to learn emergency braking.
Look where you want to go
Your motorcycle tends to follow your vision. Don’t stare at the obstacle you’re trying to avoid.
Master clutch control
If you’re riding a manual motorcycle, clutch control is one of the most important skills you can develop.
Don’t rush
Trying to impress an instructor by riding aggressively is not the goal. Smooth, controlled and safe riding is far more important.
Practise road awareness
A good rider isn’t only watching the vehicle directly ahead. You should constantly scan for pedestrians, vehicles, potholes, changing traffic conditions and other hazards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a motorcycle licence at 16 in Zambia?
Yes. Zambia’s current regulations provide for motorcycle licence categories A1 and A from 16 years of age.
What licence do I need for a 125cc motorcycle?
A motorcycle with an engine capacity of 125cc or less falls under Class A1.
What licence do I need for a 250cc motorcycle?
A 250cc motorcycle is above 125cc, so it falls under Class A under the current classification.
Can I apply for a motorcycle licence online?
RTSA provides online services through ZamPortal, including provisional licence services and practical driving test booking. Availability and the exact online workflow may depend on your circumstances and RTSA’s current system.
How much is a motorcycle licence in Zambia?
RTSA currently lists K117 for a provisional riders licence, K87 for the practical test and K144 for printing the licence after passing, giving K348 in listed RTSA fees, excluding other costs such as medical certification and riding lessons.
Final Thoughts
Getting a motorcycle driving licence in Zambia isn’t simply about obtaining a plastic card. It’s about developing the knowledge, judgement and riding skills needed to share the road safely.
Start with the correct licence category, get your provisional riders licence, study the theory, take proper motorcycle riding lessons and prepare thoroughly for your practical test.
And if you’re in Woodlands, Lusaka, you don’t have to figure it all out alone.
Ready to learn how to ride a motorcycle properly?
📱 WhatsApp Keith Mvula, Motorcycle Instructor, on +260 772 699 856 to enquire about motorcycle riding lessons at our Woodlands, Lusaka motorcycle riding school.
Information and government fees in this guide are based on RTSA information available in 2026. Always confirm current requirements and fees directly with RTSA before making an application
