Rider Info

DVLA Requirements

50cc & Under
16 year olds are able to ride these bikes with a provisional licence and basic CBT.
Those with a full UK car licence (having passed before 1st February 2001) can ride these bikes but must complete the CBT test in order to ride a 125cc.

125cc
17 year olds and above can ride these bikes with a CBT and L plates, and once they have passed their restricted test they must continue to ride this size bike (or restricted bike) for a further 2 years before upgrading to a more powerful machine.

150cc & Above
Riders of these bikes must have ridden a 125cc for 2 years and have passed the full motorbike test.
Riders aged 21 and above may take a 'Direct Access Test' which enables them to ride any size motorbike.

CBT

CBT stands for Compulsory Basic Training. It is compulsory for any individual who wishes to ride a moped or motorcycle, to complete this basic training before being allowed to ride unaccompanied with L-plates. It is a mixture of theory and practical training and both on-site and on-road training. Only when the instructor is satisfied that the individual has grasped each element will they gain their certificate. CBT certificates are valid for two years, after which, the full bike test will have to be taken or the CBT must be refreshed.

DAS

DAS (Direct Access Training) is for individuals 21 years of age and over. It is designed for those who wish to go straight on to ‘big’ bikes; the training begins on a 50cc bikes and then progresses to 500cc machines, on which the test is taken. It means the test can be taken on a more powerful bike and removes the need to remain on a 125cc or restricted machine for two years, as is the requirement following the standard full bike test.

Training Schools also offer other courses, whether it’s refresher courses for those who are returning to biking after a period of retirement, or advanced training courses for those who wish to improve and hone their skills on the road, such as cornering or braking.

New Test

The new motorcycle test is due to come in on March 31^st, 2009. This will bring it in line with European legislation and it is hoped that it will improve motorcycle driving standards and therefore, reduce the number of accidents and fatalities on UK roads, especially of younger riders.

What's New

The new test will include:

• More challenging exercises, including a slalom at low speeds to demonstrate control.
• At least 2 braking exercises, including an emergency brake at a minimum speed of 30mph.
• At least 2 higher speed exercises, including avoiding an obstacle at a minimum of 30mph.