How to get a motorcycle licence in the UK

Getting a motorcycle licence in the UK is a staged process set by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). Each stage has a minimum age and a set of tests. This guide covers the stages in order so you know what to expect from your first lesson to a full A licence.

The licence categories

Motorcycle licences in the UK fall into four categories. Category AM covers mopeds up to 50cc with a maximum speed of 45 km/h, available from age 16. Category A1 covers light motorcycles up to 125cc and 11 kW, available from age 17. Category A2 covers machines up to 35 kW with a power-to-weight limit of 0.2 kW/kg, available from age 19. Category A is the full licence with no power restriction, available from age 24 via Direct Access or from age 21 after two years on an A2 licence.

Compulsory Basic Training (CBT)

CBT is the starting point for every new rider. It takes place over a single day at a DVSA-approved training centre and covers an introduction to the machine, basic controls, on-site manoeuvres and a road ride accompanied by an instructor. You do not need to pass a theory test before your CBT.

Completing CBT earns you a Certificate of Completion (DL196), which lets you ride a 125cc machine unsupervised on L plates on public roads for up to two years. After those two years you must either renew your CBT or hold a full licence to continue riding.

The motorcycle theory test

The theory test has two parts: a multiple-choice section covering road rules and motorcycle-specific hazards, and a hazard perception test based on video clips. You book through the DVSA and take it at a theory test centre on a computer. The DVSA publishes the current pass mark and fee at gov.uk.

A theory test pass is valid for two years. If you have not completed the practical tests within that period, you take the theory test again from the start.

Module 1: off-road manoeuvres

Module 1 is taken at a DVSA test centre on a closed course. It covers slow-speed control in a figure of eight and a slow ride, a U-turn, a slalom, and two higher-speed exercises: an emergency stop and a swerve or avoidance exercise. You supply your own bike or use one from your training school, and it must match the category you are testing for. The DVSA sets the pass mark and fee at gov.uk.

Module 2: on-road riding

Module 2 follows on a separate day and takes place entirely on public roads. A DVSA examiner follows on a motorcycle and gives instructions through an earpiece. The test lasts around 40 minutes and includes a section of independent riding, general road riding and a short safety questions check at the start. Passing Module 2 completes the practical requirement, and your licence category is upgraded by the DVLA.

The Direct Access Scheme

Riders aged 24 or over can use the Direct Access Scheme to train and test on a large motorcycle and gain a full Category A licence without first spending time on an A2-restricted machine. Riders aged 21 to 23 can reach a full A licence by holding an A2 for at least two years and passing a further practical test from age 21. These age limits are set in law and no training school can override them.

Choosing a rider training school

Every school offering CBT or full-licence training must be approved by the DVSA. When choosing, look for clear pricing that sets out what is and is not included, modern and well-maintained training bikes, and instructors who explain each stage and set realistic expectations of the tests rather than oversell a fast result.

Everything Motorbike lists rider training schools across the UK, independents first, each with their location and a link to their own site where we hold one.

Do you need your own bike?

You do not need a motorcycle to start training. Most rider training schools supply machines for CBT and for all licence tests. Once you hold your licence and buy your own bike, you may need it collected from the dealer and delivered to you. Bladespeed runs weekly scheduled dealer delivery across mainland Britain, with a firm price before you pay.