Police are urging dirt bike riders to get their motorbike driver's license before riding in public spaces

It follows an increase in unlicensed riders driving unregistered dirt bikes - without helmets - across the eastern Bay of Plenty.

Riders have been caught out travelling on roads and footpaths at excessive speeds in Kawerau, Opotiki and Whakatane.

Senior Sergeant Megan Te Aho says the fine for riding in public spaces is $150.

Ms Te Aho says police plan to enforce this and impound motorbikes if riders persist, and that leads to a Driving Whilst Forbidden charge in court.