The Belizean government is reconsidering its contentious proposal for a nationwide $300 motorcycle training course following public backlash. Prime Minister John Briceño acknowledged the policy may have been “excessive” during cabinet discussions this week.
The reconsideration comes amid the Belize Police Department’s annual end-of-year auction, which attracted significant public interest with motorcycles, bicycles, and electronics available for bidding. This event unfolded alongside ongoing government efforts to address road safety concerns through regulatory measures.
Prime Minister Briceño revealed alternative approaches under consideration, including implementing mandatory written tests upon license renewal for all vehicle operators—not just motorcyclists. This system would mirror practices in the United States where license renewal requires re-testing.
Additionally, the government is exploring tiered requirements that would exempt experienced riders with clean safety records. “Cyclists that have had a license for more than two years and have not gotten into any accident—maybe we don’t need to require them to take the lessons,” Briceño stated, suggesting the mandate might primarily target new riders entering the system.
The proposed $300 course had faced substantial criticism from Belizeans who acknowledged road safety importance but questioned the financial burden of the mandatory training. The government’s pivot indicates responsiveness to public concern while continuing to seek solutions for transportation safety improvements.