Can a learner motorcyclist carry a passenger in Northern Ireland?

No. A motorcyclist riding on a provisional licence must not carry a pillion passenger.

The restriction is set out in Northern Ireland Highway Code rule 85. A friend having their own motorcycle licence does not remove the learner rider’s restriction, and a motorcycle having a proper passenger seat does not change it either. Carrying a passenger becomes possible only once the rider has the appropriate full entitlement and the motorcycle is designed and equipped for two people. Check both the licence category and the motorcycle’s passenger provision rather than relying on engine size.