Written by So you’re interested in getting your license. Don’t worry it’s not that hard. Just make sure you do the research and don’t panic and you will be fine. This article will explain the CBT course (Compulsory basic training), what you can expect, what to take with you and how to best take advantage of this training.
By UK Law all motorcycle, moped and scooter riders must complete the CBT course prior to being allowed to ride on the road. This training is unavoidable; don’t even think of getting on the road without it. You will only put yourself and others in jeopardy.
The CBT training cannot be given by a friend or family either. In order to take the training the instructor must be certified by an approved training body. These instructors are required to complete assessments laid out by the DSA (driving standards agency, why do officials love acronyms so much?); which involves a minimum two day training course to ensure instructors are of a certain competence before they are allowed to teach.
Okay so what do I need I hear you ask? Well first you will need a vehicle that meets the minimum requirements, a bike essentially. Depending on the exact license you are going for will depict the category of bike. For example in order to gain a moped license you must turn up to the CBT course with a moped that has an engine capacity of less than 50cc and must not exceed a maximum speed of 50 kilometres an hour.
A light motorcycle license will require you to turn up with an engine size of between 75 and 125cc. There are various other laws on power output and horse power of the bike however as a rule of the thumb 99% of bikes with an engine size of 75 to 125cc will be eligible.
What can I expect during the practical test?
Well the practical test consists of a number of elements all designed to ensure you are fit to be on the road and will not put yourself or others in danger. Such elements include theoretical questions on vehicle safety and riding with a passenger, an eyesight test, and the main practical test consisting of performing a number of manoeuvres and a test of driving ability on the road.
The start of the test will begin with an ID check and the fitting of a radio and ear piece. All of this will be performed by the examiner so there is no need to worry. You will also be required to wear a helmet during the entire test for mopeds, scooters and motorcycle licenses. The only exemption exists for followers of the Sikh religion if they are wearing a religious turban.
Now to the manoeuvres you will be asked to perform. Make sure you have had adequate practice performing these manoeuvres prior to taking the test.
Emergency stop
Pretty common manoeuvre present in all license types. In motorcycle license practical tests you are guaranteed to be required to perform an Emergency stop. The examiner will inform you of which hand signal they will use to signal you to stop.
Wheeling
This manoeuvre requires the rider to position their bike alongside the road and place the bike on a stand. They will then be asked to remove the bike from the stand and “wheel” the bike across the road turning as they do.
U Turn
Similar to a three point turn for cars. The rider will be asked to move from a stationary position to face the opposite way.
Slow Ride
Another common manoeuvre. In order to demonstrate the rider’s ability to control the bike at very slow speeds, such as in traffic, the examiner will ask the rider to ride very slowly as though they were moving through traffic.
