The bike test (pre-Oct 08)

WHAT IS A C.B.T.?

C.B.T. means Compulsory Basic Training; It is a course and one of the preliminary steps to getting a license, it is NOT a test. It was introduced to reduce accidents among inexperienced riders and to promote safety awareness. The C.B.T. usually takes one day to complete, at the end of the course you will receive a certificate (D.L. 196) which will validate your licence so that you can continue to practice on the road as a learner.

WHO NEEDS TO DO C.B.T.?

All learner motorcycle/moped riders must complete a C.B.T. course before riding on the road. Only people who passed their car test before 1 st February 2001 and who only want to ride a 50cc moped are exempt; but it is still advisable to attend a course for your own safety.

WHAT SIZE OF BIKE CAN I RIDE?

At the age of 16 you can only ride up to a 50cc moped with a design speed not exceeding 50KM/H [about 31 mph.]

At the age of 17 upwards you can ride a ‘learner machine' that is a motorcycle up to 125cc with a power output not exceeding 14.6H.P. [about 60 mph.]

After the C.B.T. you are classed as a learner i.e. you must display ‘L' Plates and you cannot carry passengers or ride on motor-ways. The certificate is valid for 2 years, if you don't gain a full licence within that time you will need to attend another C.B.T.

WHAT DO I HAVE TO DO TO GAIN A full MOTORCYCLE LICENCE?

Before taking the practical test you will be required to pass a THEORY TEST at your local driving theory test centre. A booking can be made by phoning 08700 101 372 you will need a credit card and your driving licence details.

If you are under 21 years old you can only take a test on a m/cycle up to 125cc [If you wish to ride a larger m/cycle then you must take the test on a 125cc] after passing you'll be able to ride a m/cycle up to 33HP [about 350cc.] Then after two years you will be entitled to ride any size of bike.

DIRECT ACCESS (D.A.S.)

If you are 21 or over you may take a test on a m/cycle which is 46.6HP or more [about 500cc] this is called Direct Access Scheme. After passing the test you will be entitled to ride a m/cycle of any size straight away.

You may only train on the large m/cycle when accompanied by a qualified instructor.

Click here for a list of local Motorcycle training providers.