Routes tomotorcyclingCompulsory BasicTraining (CBT)to licence acquisitionand beyond

Getting started –

So you want to learn to ride?

Choosing to learn to ride is just the beginning tobecoming a rider, there are many things you haveto think about. This leaflet has been prepared bythe Driving Standards Agency (DSA) as a generalguide, to help those who are considering learningto ride a motorcycle. Full details of how to obtain amotorcycle licence and the skills required are setout in ‘The Official DSA Guide to Learning to Ride’.

What do you want to ride – a motorcycleor a moped?

What type of training do you need to take for instance do you want to take Direct Accessso that you can ride a larger motorcycle straightaway? You will need to know the different stagesrequired to obtain your full motorcycle licence.There are several routes to achieving this,depending upon your age and the size ofmotorcycle you choose to ride. A flowcharton pages 6 and 7 shows this more clearly.

The stages of learning

1. Applying for your licence.

You must have a valid driving licence before youcan ride on the road. This can be either*

• a provisional driving licence which providesprovisional car, motorcycle and mopedentitlement, or

• a full car or moped licence which alsoprovides provisional motorcycle entitlement.

Licences are issued by the Driver and VehicleLicensing Agency (DVLA). You can apply onlineat direct.gov.uk/motoring or by completing anapplication form available from most post offices.

2. Compulsory Basic Training (CBT)

Before you are allowed to ride your motorcycle/moped on the road with L plates, you mustcomplete Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) **.The course is designed to ensure that you aquirethe necessary knowledge of motorcycling andhave demonstrated the basic practical skillsand attitudes to make you safe on the road.

CBT involves the following five elements whichmust be completed in sequence:

A. Introduction the basics explained andan eyesight test

B. Practical on-site training an introductionto the motorcycle, including its controls, safetychecks, starting and stopping

C. Practical on-site riding developing thebasic riding skills, including stopping, brakesand gears

D. Practical on-road training preparing forthe on road element, including: anticipation,observation and positioning

E. Practical on-road riding at least twohours accompanied road riding with a certifiedinstructor to demonstrate that you can copesafely with a variety of road and trafficconditions. This may be longer dependingon each individual’s training needs.

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* minimum age for riding a moped is 16, formotorcycles is 17 or 21 for DAS.

** unless you hold a full moped licence having passed amoped test after 1/12/90 or motorcycle licence and

wish to upgrade to another category.

Compulsory Basic Training 3

CBT is taught only by those motorcycle instructorscertified by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA). It is delivered by an Approved Training Body (ATB).You can find the name of your nearest CBT trainerby visiting direct.gov.uk/motoringnearest andselecting ‘Approved Training Bodies’.

The duration of CBT is not fixed but is dependanton your ability and aptitude.

On successful completion of all five elements,you will receive a DL196 (CBT Certificate).

This entitles you to ride a solo motorcycle up to125 cc, or with a power output of no more than11 kW. However, you

• must be at least 17 years old (16 for a moped)

• display L plates (D plates in Wales) to the frontand rear of your motorcycle

• cannot ride on motorways or carry a pillionpassenger.

As a learner, you will then have two years to passthe theory and practical tests before the DL196certificate expires. If you don’t pass both testswithin these two years then you will needto complete another CBT course to continueriding as a learner.

For more details about CBT, visitdirect.gov.uk/cbt

The theory and

3. Motorcycle theory test

This is a screen based test and consists oftwo parts, which are taken together. It has beendevised to test your knowledge of riding theory,in particular the rules of the road and best ridingpractice.

Part 1 consists of a series of 50 multiple choicequestions and lasts 57 minutes. Five of thequestions are presented in a case study scenario.The subject of the scenario focuses on real lifeexamples and experiences that riders mightencounter on the road.

Part 2 of the theory test is called the hazardperception test and involves responding to a series of film clips containing one or moredeveloping hazards. This part of the test lastsabout 20 minutes, during which time you will beshown 14 video film clips, containing 15 hazards.

You will need to pass both parts in one sittingto pass your theory test. If you fail one of theparts, you will need to take the whole test again.Your theory test pass certificate is valid fortwo years.

4. The practical motorcycling test

To help you prepare for this ‘The Official DSA Guideto Learning to Ride’ publication has details of thepractical test. It sets out the full test syllabus andexplains the skills you should show when takingyour test. DSA recommends however, that youtake some formal training to prepare for your test.This is taken in two modules, which are explainedin more detail on page 8.

Type of motorcycle and licence

There are four categories of motorcycle (includingmoped) that can be used for test purposes, givingthree categories of licence. The type of motorcycle

used will determine the type of licence you canobtain and with it, the size of machine that youwill be able to ride after passing.

How category A is obtained

1. With a two year qualifying period. This isavailable to anyone over 17 years of age. You mustpass your practical test on a motorcycle with anengine size between 121 cc and 125 cc, andwhich is capable of at least 100 km/h (62.5 mph).However, for the first two years after passing yourtest, you will be restricted to machines of 25 kW(33 bhp). After that time has elapsed you may rideany size of motorcycle without taking a further test.

2. Without a qualifying period via Direct Access.This is available to riders who are aged 21 yearsor older. You must pass your practical test ona ‘large’ motorcycle with a power output of at least

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The licence categories are:

A. Category P Moped. This covers any

motorcycle with an engine up to 50 cc anda design speed not exceeding 50 km/h(approx 32 mph). A pass on this machinewill get you a category P licence andentitlement to ride a moped.

B. Category A1 Light (or ‘learner’) motorcycle.

This covers a motorcycle with an enginebetween 75 and 125 cc. A pass on this sizeof machine will get you a category A1 licenceand entitlement to ride machines up to125 cc and a power output of up to 11 kW.

C. Category A Test to be taken on

121 125 cc. This licence can be obtainedin one of three ways, with or withouta two year qualifying period.

practical tests

35 kW (46.6 bhp). A test pass allows you to rideany size of motorcycle straight away. All or partof the CBT may be taken on either a learnermotorcycle or a large motorcycle but only ifprogressing to DAS as part of the course. Youmay practise for the practical test on motorcycleslarger than the learner motorcycle specificationprovided you are accompanied at all times by,and are in radio contact with, an approved DirectAccess instructor on another motorcycle. You mustwear fluorescent or reflective clothing and followall other provisional licence restrictions.

3. With a partial qualifying period via AcceleratedAccess. This is available to riders who hold aCategory A licence and reach the age of 21 whilstwithin the two year qualifying period, but who donot want to wait for this to end before being ableto ride a larger motorcycle. To obtain this licenceyou will need to pass a further test on a motorcycleof at least 35 kW. You may practise onmotorcycles over 25 kW under the same rules asthose taking the Direct Access route (see above).You will revert to learner status while practising(on a motorcycle greater than 25 kW) althoughtest failure will not affect your existing licence.

Motorcycles and mopeds with automaticor semi-automatic gear boxes

If you wish to take your training and test on anautomatic (twist and go) moped or motorcycle,your licence will be restricted to automaticmachines only.

If you subsequently wish to ride a geared machineyou must pass a further test.

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The routes to your 6

Want to acquire a moped or motorcycle licence? Select one of the routes below

Want to ride a moped?Start your route here

Want to ride on a 125 cc machine?Start your route here

Moped (Provisional Cat P)50 cc / 50 km/h

Minimum age 16 years(valid to 70th birthday)

Motorcycle 75 -125 cc(Provisional Cat A1)Minimum age 17 years(valid to 70th birthday)

Motorcycle 125 cc / 11 kW(Provisional Cat A)

Capable of 100 km/h (62.5 mph)Minimum age 17 years(valid to 70th birthday)

Take CompulsoryBasic Training (CBT)

Completing CBT allows youto ride a moped whilst

displaying L plates Valid for 2 years. See Notes

for moped riders

Take Compulsory Basic Training(CBT)

Completing CBT means you can ride a learner motorcycle up to 125 cc

displaying L plates Valid for 2 years

Gives full Cat P Licence * See notes

Gives full Cat A1 licencelicence limited to 125 cc

Take the moped/motorcycle practical test Module 2Eyesight test, safety questions and road riding

When you have passed Module 1 and Module 2 you qualify for a full licence (see below)

Take the moped/motorcycle practical test Module 1Consists of off-road specified manoeuvres

If you have passed Module 1, proceed to practical test Module 2

Take the moped/motorcycle theory testFrom the date of passing the theory test, you have two years to pass both practical modules

If you have passed the theory test, proceed to practical test Module 1

Gives full Cat A licencelicence limited to 25 kW

for two years

POST-TEST You are now eligible for the Enhanced Rider Scheme (ERS) – designed to provide youwith an assessment of your riding and any additional training you may need to improve your riding skills.Successfully completing an ERS course will entitle you to significant discounts on your insurance (checkout direct.gov.uk/ers for more information and to find your nearest approved post-test motorcycle trainer).

motorcycle licence 7

*Notes for moped riders

A moped must have an engine capacity of up to 50cc and notweigh more than 250kg. If it was registered after 1 August 1977 its maximum design speed cannot exceed 50 km/h (about 32 mph).

Mopeds built after June 2003 are restrictedto 45 km/h (28mph).

If you passed your car test prior to 1 February 2001, you have a valid Moped (Cat P only) licence. If you passed your car test after this date, you will need to take a CBT course; your CBT certificate will be valid for the life of your licence for mopeds only.

Motorcycles with automaticor semi-automatic gear boxes

If you wish to take your training and test on an automatic (twist and go) moped or motorcycle, your licence will be restricted to use onan automatic machine only. If, subsequently, you wish to ride a geared motorcycle you will be required to pass both Module 1 and Module 2 tests on a geared motorcycle.

Want to ride abigger bike?

Start your routehere or take

Direct Access

Undertaken on a motorcycle which exceeds 35 kW (46.6 bhp)You must be at least 21 years old and:

� Be accompanied at all times by a Direct Access Instructor on another motorcycle

� Be in communication with Instructor

� Wear fluorescent or reflective clothing

Direct Access Scheme (DAS)

Accelerated AccessIf you hold a full motorcycle licence in a lower category andwish to upgrade to ride larger machines, you don’t need to re-take CBT and the theory test. You can take both modules of the practical test on the larger motorcycle (to be taken within six months of each other), providing you meet the age requirement for the motorcycleyou intend riding.

Gives full Cat A licenceunlimited

The practical motorcycle test explained

The test consists of two modules. To get yourfull motorcycle or moped licence you will needto successfully complete both modules in turnwithin two years of passing the theory test.

If you are taking Accelerated Access to upgrade toriding a larger motorcycle, you don't have to retakeCBT and the theory test. However, you will need tocomplete both modules of the practical test on thelarger machine you will have six months ofpassing Module 1 to pass Module 2.

You are advised to take training to prepare for both

modules of the test.

Module 1: The off-road elementThis will take place on a safe, off roadmanoeuvring area, and will include

• a series of eleven practical riding manoeuvresaround a pre set circuit (see pages 4 and 5)including a slalom, avoidance exercise, U turnand emergency stop. Some manoeuvres areto be carried out at specified minimum speeds.

• The off road riding element takes around10 minutes to complete.

Module 2: The on-road elementThis will be conducted from one of DSA’s testcentres and will test your ability to ride safely intraffic under normal road conditions. The examinerwill observe a number of features including your

• use of controls

• observation

• signals

• use of speed

• meeting and passing other vehicles

• awareness and anticipation

• approach to junctions and roundabouts.

This will last about 35 40 minutes and will alsoinclude the eyesight test and vehicle safetyquestions.

Although you will be allowed to book both modulesat the same time and for them to be taken on thesame day, you must have passed your Module 1test before you will be allowed to take Module 2.

To watch a step by step demonstration of the newmotorcycle test, visitdirect.gov.uk/newbiketestvideo

For details about motorcycling test centrelocations, visit direct.gov.uk/motoringnearestand select ‘Practical Test Centres’ or send an emailto customer.services@dsa.gsi.gov.uk

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You must pass Module 1, the off road

element, first. If you complete this to the requiredstandard, you will then be eligible to take Module2, the on road element. You must use the samesubcategory of motorcycle for both modules ofthe practical test.

To take your Module 2 test, you must

hold the following:

a valid CBT certificate

a valid theory test certificate

a valid Module 1 test pass certificate

The practical motorcycling test

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Off-road manoeuvring layouts (Module 1)

Below is the usual layout of the off road manoeuvring area for the practical motorcycling test.The 11 manoeuvres will be tested in the order listed and the examiner will decide on the day which circuit(left or right) you will use.

If you are taking the new test on a casual hire site or VOSA site then the circuit layout may varyin shape, although the manoeuvres are the same. To find out more about the test, speakto your trainer or visit: direct.gov.uk/newmotorcycletest

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On and off the stand

Wheel the machine

Slalom

Figure of eight

30 km/h / 19 mph circuit ride

50 km/h / 32 mph avoidance

Controlled stop

U-turn

Slow ride

30 km/h / 19 mph circuit ride

50 km/h / 32 mph emergency brake

MOTORCYCLEMANOEUVRINGCircuits

For all mopeds, speed requirementsare 30 km/h / 19 mph

MOPEDS

– an enhanced approach to learning

After the test10

5. After you have obtained your licence

Further development

The learning process doesn't end once youhave passed your test. DSA in partnershipwith the motorcycling training community andthe motorcycling industry have put togetherthe Enhanced Rider Scheme (ERS).

ERS is a training scheme for all full licencemotorcycle holders regardless of riding experience.The training is tailored to your needs as a riderand you do as little or as much as necessary toimprove your riding. At the end of the training youreceive a certificate that entitles you to insurancediscounts from the majority of motorcyclinginsurance companies.

To find out more about ERS or to look for a DSAapproved trainer in your area, visitdirect.gov.uk/ers

New Drivers Act – don’t lose your licence

When you have passed your test you are onprobation for the first two years. If you onlyheld a provisional licence before passing yourmotorcycle test, your licence will be revoked ifyou receive six or more penalty points within twoyears of passing your test. This includes offencescommitted before passing your test.

If your licence is revoked, then you must applyfor a provisional licence and complete CBTbefore riding on the road. You can then only rideas a learner until passing the theory and practicaltests again.

– the learning continues... 11

For booking the theory test andboth modules of the practical test

visit direct.gov.uk/drivingtestor call the following numbers:

Enquiry and booking line: 0300 200 1122

Welsh Language booking line: 0300 200 1133

Minicom booking line:For hearing impaired customers

Fax booking line: 0300 200 1155 (practical)0300 200 1177 (theory)

0300 200 1144 (practical)0300 200 1166 (theory)

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