Passing Your Motorcycle Test

Depending on your age and what you want to ride, you have a number of options when it comes to gaining a motorcycle licence.

For full details, read our Routes to Riding guide, which explains the new UK Motorcycle Licence Laws since regulations changed in January 2013.

After you have done Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) there are a few more steps to your full motorcycle licence. This is the outline – for full details of each stage, follow the links:

Motorcycle Theory test

This is unique to motorcycles, so you must take it even if you have already passed a Theory Test for a car or other vehicle - but it includes the Hazard Perception Test which is the same for all vehicles. Both are computer-based tests which you take at your local test centre. You can book your Motorcycle Theory Test online via the DVLA website, or your instructor may book it on your behalf. You must pass both before you can take a practical motorcycle test.

You must take both parts of your driving licence to the Theory Test.

Practical Motorcycle test

This is in two parts. Module 1 takes place on a training area at a test centre. For Module 2 you ride on the road with the examiner following on his or her own motorcycle, in radio contact. You must pass Mod 1 before taking Mod 2. See our detailed guide to the Motorcycle Practical Test.

You can progress through the stages of the Category A motorcycle licence, beginning with an A1 licence and moving on to an A2 licence and then a full A licence at 2 year intervals, taking a new practical test at each stage.

Your other option is the Direct Access Route to a licence which lets you ride the most powerful motorcycle your age allows.

By taking a Direct Access route to an A2 licence from age 19, you can ride motorcycles up to around 500cc & move on to an unrestricted A licence after 2 years by taking another practical test.

Or, from age 24, you can take Direct Access training and test on a larger motorcycle, and gain an unrestricted A licence immediately.

Again, you can book your practical motorcycle test online via the DVLA or your instructor may book the tests as part of your training.

Check that you have everything you need for your practical tests, including a suitable motorcycle or scooter, protective kit and documents including provisional driving licence, DL196 CBT certificate, and your Theory Test pass certificate. If you arrive without something, you may be unable to take your test and lose your test fees.

Check the DVLA list of motorcycles for test to check that your motorbike or scooter is suitable for the test you want to take.

How do recent Motorcycle Licence Law changes affect me?

The recent changes in Motorcycle Licence regulations only affect people taking a motorcycle test on or after 19 January 2013.

See our Routes to Riding guide for all the details.