Getting on two wheels

CBT Completion | Compulsory Basic Training

A rider undertakes their CBT test

Want to ride a motorcycle or scooter? First, you need to do Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). Don’t worry – it’s not a test, and it’s all about getting you to the point where you are safe and confident on the road. You’ll start on a training area away from traffic and only ride on public roads when you are ready.

Most people complete the CBT within a day and can then ride any scooter, moped or motorbike up to 125cc on UK roads. It’s the quickest way to get the freedom of independent transport!

Preparation

First, choose a trainer and book your compulsory basic training. Taking a free ride is a great way to check that you get on well with the instructor. Remember – the CBT can only be delivered by a Driving Standards Agency (DSA) approved training school, and all the ones we have recommended are approved trainers.

The trainer will tell you what you need to bring and wear. For example, you will need a provisional driving licence covering motorcycles (Category A – see below) – and to wear suitable riding clothes. That means a decent jacket, gloves and boots – not shorts and trainers. Check what safety kit the trainer can loan you.

If you don’t already drive, we suggest you get familiar with the Highway Code beforehand. And remember it is a long day - so try getting a good night's sleep.

What Happens On The Day

The course is divided into 5 main sections, which you’ll be assessed on.

There is no time limit, but each one must be completed before you can move on. So just relax and take one section at a time.

You have to spend at least 2 hours on the road with your instructor, with a de – brief at the end of the ride.

This is what you can expect in each section of the CBT:

Introduction

This is classroom based. The instructor will tell you what to expect and cover all the legal aspects of riding on the road.

Practical On Site Training

Now you meet the scooter or motorbike. You’ll be shown the controls and some basic checks you need to do before riding and shown how to start the bike.

Practical On Site Riding

This is where the real fun begins! You’ll move onto an off road area to start riding. If you’ve chosen a geared motorbike you’ll learn how to use the clutch to get moving. When you’re happy with stopping and starting you’ll go onto more challenging things like emergency stops and turns.

On Road Training

Back to the classroom for a break from riding.

You’ll get a pre–road ride briefing, covering the Highway Code, how to stay visible, speed control, road signs and how to ride defensively. Even if you’re already driving a car, motorcycles use the road differently, so you will pick up some vital tips.

Practical On Road Riding

This is the final stage. Your instructor will start you off riding on quieter roads and then move you onto faster, busier roads. You can apply all you have learned about motorcycle control, road positioning and riding in traffic.

Once your instructor feels confident that you are safe and competent to ride on your own, you will be issued with the DL196 Certificate, which you might hear called the CBT licence, showing you successfully completed the training.

Information About The CBT Certificate:

  • It is valid for 2 years
  • It entitles you to ride on the road unaccompanied while displaying L Plates
  • Your CBT certificate does not allow you to carry pillion passengers or ride on motorways
  • You will need to re-take the basic training if you do not pass both the theory and practical tests before the CBT Certificate expires.

Provisional Licence

A full car licence gives you provisional motorcycle entitlement although you must check that this is visible on your licence. You need to ensure that it shows Category A provisional motorcycle entitlement on your licence.

  • If you hold a provisional motorcycle licence (Category A) or a full car licence issued after 1st February 2001 you will need to successfully complete a CBT Course before riding any moped, motorcycle or scooter on the road.
  • You need to apply for a Provisional Category A licence here.
  • If you have a full car licence ensure that it has provisional Category A entitlement.
  • If you have a provisional licence issued at 16 years - make sure that it includes Category A entitlement.

Mopeds Only

  • If you passed your car test before February 2001 you are automatically entitled to ride a 50cc restricted moped without L Plates, and without taking CBT. You can also carry a pillion passenger. However, if you have not ridden a motorcycle or scooter before, we would advise you to complete the basic training for your own safety and confidence.
  • If you passed your car test after February 2001 you automatically have provisional moped entitlement but you will need to take the training. The certificate is valid for moped use for the duration of your car licence. You will also be allowed to ride without L Plates and carry a pillion passenger.

Dame Kelly Holmes CBT Completion

See what to expect from Compulsory Basic Training by watching British gold medallist Dame Kelly Holmes undertake and complete it for the Get On campaign:

Athlete Dame Kelly Holmes undertakes her motorcycle CBT for the Get On campaign.

Rules for Northern Ireland

Find out the CBT rules for Northern Ireland here

 

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