Getting started, the law says:-

You must hold a CBT training certificate before you can be a learner on a moped, scooter or motorcycle. The only exception to this rule is if you passed your UK car test before 01/02/2001 you are automatically entitled to ride a 50cc moped without L-Plates and without taking CBT (although we strongly recommend that you do). At age 16 a CBT certificate will allow you to ride up to a 50cc moped, and from 17 years up to a 125cc machine. And will allow over 21s to partake in Direct Access Tuition on large machines, for most persons completion of a CBT course can be achieved in one day. CBT valid for 2 years no passengers or motorways allowed.

Full licence?

A full licence will allow you to dispose of L-Plates, carry a passenger, and if over 50cc use motorways.

"A1" Light licence?

Test machine size 75cc-125cc.

If you take a practical test on such a machine this will result in a full licence to ride a machine of 125cc maximum.

"A2" Standard licence?.

Test machine size 120cc-125cc (must be capable of at least 62mph).

Taking a practical test on such a machine will result in a full licence, for the first two years a rider would be restricted to machines of max 33bhp. After two years, the licence would be upgraded to an "A" unrestricted licence without a further test.

"A" Licence (direct access scheme)

Test machine size min 47bhp (approx. 500cc+)

Taking the DAS test route will result in an immediate full unrestricted licence. The law now allows learners to have tuition on a large machine, providing they are over 21 years of age, accompanied (followed) and radio linked with a specially qualified DAS instructor at all times.

Theory test

A separate motorcycle theory test must be passed prior to a practical test (not necessary if just doing CBT). Please ask for advice on what to study, and how to book your theory test.

See our links page to take a mock theory test.

Automatics

Taking a test on a machine without a manual clutch, will result in a full licence for automatics only.