Saskatchewan is adopting graduated licenses for motorcycle drivers, but the changes won't take effect until 2011.

Currently, there are no requirements for motorcycle drivers to demonstrate any riding skills in order to become licensed in Saskatchewan.

They're able to get a learner's permit simply by passing a written test that allows drivers to operate a motorcycle with only slightly reduced riding privileges.

The new program will be similar to the existing graduated license program for passenger vehicles, with new drivers facing a zero-alcohol policy, no night driving and a ban on carrying passengers until they're more experienced.

Motorcycle drivers will advance through three stages of licensing, starting with a learner's permit and graduating to full driving privileges in a minimum of three years.

The move is aimed at reducing motorcycle crashes, which caused five deaths and 221 injuries in Saskatchewan last year.