Nicosia, Cyprus. Thousands of food deliveries across Cyprus could face disruption from next week as new motorcycle licensing rules prevent learner riders from working unless they are under the direct supervision of a driving instructor. The rules will take effect on July 1.
New rules for learner riders
From July 1, learner motorcycle licence holders will only be allowed to ride on public roads while receiving instruction from a licensed instructor on another motorcycle of the same category or during an official driving test.
For delivery riders, the change means they must obtain a full motorcycle licence before they can continue working.
Number of riders affected
The road transport department (TOM) told the Cyprus Mail it could not provide an exact figure for the number of riders affected because learner licences are issued daily.
However, based on information from driving instructors, the department said that more than 1,000 applicants are currently awaiting the scheduling of a test date.
Department response
The department said the changes were approved under an amendment to the driving licence law in 2023 and that businesses had three years to prepare before the legislation came into force.
It said the implementation of the provisions aims to enhance road safety and ensure that motorcycle riders are adequately trained and capable of operating the vehicle before riding on public roads.
Testing capacity expanded
Officials said motorcycle testing capacity has already been expanded.
According to the department, from the beginning of the second half of 2025 onwards, the number of motorcycle tests conducted has doubled compared with the immediately preceding period.
Additional examiners have also joined during the past month to increase testing capacity further.