British Columbia is taking a serious look at how new riders get licensed, and one proposed change is already getting a lot of attention: mandatory protective riding gear for new motorcyclists. In simple terms, BC is moving toward making ATGATT — All The Gear, All The Time — the law for riders in the learner and novice stages.

Under the proposed Motorcyclist Licensing Program expected to roll out in 2026, new riders would be required to wear approved protective gear, not just a helmet. That likely means a proper motorcycle jacket, gloves, and boots that cover the ankles whenever you’re riding. No more learning to ride in hoodies, work boots, or sneakers.

From a safety standpoint, it’s hard to argue with the intent. New riders are statistically at the highest risk of crashing, especially in their first few seasons. Proper gear dramatically reduces the severity of injuries when things go wrong, and building those habits early can literally be the difference between walking away and months off the bike. From that angle, this move makes a lot of sense.

But from a barrier-to-entry perspective, it’s fair to ask tough questions. Motorcycling is already more expensive than it used to be. New and used bikes cost more, insurance isn’t cheap, and training courses — while valuable — add to the upfront bill. Requiring approved jackets and ankle-covering boots adds another mandatory cost at the very start of the journey. For some would-be riders, that could be enough to pause or walk away entirely.

That said, the reality is this: proper gear isn’t optional if you plan to ride long-term. Even without a legal requirement, experienced riders know that jackets, gloves, and boots aren’t about style — they’re about skin, bones, and staying on the road. Making ATGATT part of the licensing process simply removes the grey area and sets a clear baseline for safety.

And that’s where we land on this. Yes, it adds cost. Yes, it adds another step. But it also sets new riders up with the right mindset from day one. Riding a motorcycle isn’t something you do halfway — and learning that early can save you from expensive mistakes, serious injuries, or giving up riding altogether after a bad first crash.

At Joe Rocket Canada, we fully support this direction. We’ve always believed in All The Gear, All The Time, not because it sounds good, but because it works. Gear doesn’t make you invincible, but it gives you a fighting chance when things go sideways — and for new riders, that matters more than anything.

BC’s final rules are still being finalized, but one thing is clear: the province is signalling that if you want to ride, you need to take safety seriously. And honestly? That’s a standard worth standing behind.

Proposed Key Changes to Getting a Motorcycle Licence in BC (2026):

 • Introduction of a new Motorcyclist Licensing Program (MLP)
 • Fast-tracking to a full Class 6 is eliminated, even for experienced car drivers
 • New riders move through graduated stages: Learner → Restricted → Full Class 6
 • Second road test is removed
 • Progression to a full licence is based on time riding without tickets or at-fault crashes, rather than passing another test
 • Longer required learning and restriction periods before full riding privileges
 • Training courses are optional, but can reduce the time required in each stage
 • Mandatory protective gear for learners and novice riders (beyond just helmets)
 • Expected gear includes motorcycle jacket, gloves, and ankle-covering boots
 • Focus shifts from test-based evaluation to real-world riding behaviour and experience
 • Changes aim to reduce injuries and fatalities, especially among new riders
 • Final details still pending, with implementation expected in early 2026

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