C1.7 Motorcycle Licence

How to Ride a Motorcycle in the UK? How to Get a Motorcycle Licence in the UK?

Reminder: Many students ask about buying used motorcycles in the UK. Generally, it's advisable to buy a new one directly from an authorised dealer, as they often have promotions. Personally, I'm not sure why, but I relatively prefer BMW motorcycles. Of course, others are very cool too, it's just a personal preference. There are also many used motorcycle dealers in the UK; everyone should be careful to distinguish reliable ones. You can usually find many via Google Maps or Facebook (renamed Meta in October 2021).

Motorcycles are quite popular in the UK, ridden by many people. Although I haven't seen many of my classmates riding them – to be precise, they are less common in small towns and villages, but they are more numerous in slightly larger cities.

International students studying in the UK can also ride motorcycles, but they need to obtain a UK motorcycle licence.

Official Links:

• https://www.gov.uk/motorcycle-theory-test

• https://www.gov.uk/apply-first-provisional-driving-licence

• https://www.gov.uk/motorcycle-test

Since someone asked, Ten-Litre Cat will write about it. Do you think it's not tiring for me to add 'Ten-Litre Cat' every time I write an article? It is tiring! But some unfamiliar friends really like my articles and share them directly by copying and pasting. So, if I just type using my own words, many people wouldn't know who I am, which is quite awkward. What if someone takes a liking to me and wants to proactively send me a staggering fortune? Of course, if I don't write well, what if someone wants to complain?

Apply for a Provisional Licence

• Provisional Licence

• Application Criteria

 

1. Be at least 15 years and 9 months old.

 

2. Be able to read a number plate from 20 metres away.

 

3. Have been resident in the UK for at least 185 days.

• Application Fee:

• Online application: £34

• Postal application: £43

• How to Apply:

 

1. Apply online via the government website.

 

2. Obtain a D1 form from the Post Office and apply by post.

Theory Test

I. Exam Information

Component	Description / Requirement
Test Structure	Consists of two parts:   1. Multiple-choice questions: Highway Code & safety knowledge.   2. Hazard perception: Identifying hazards via video clips.
Exam Format	Both parts are taken as a single test;   you must pass both simultaneously.
Booking Requirement	Must hold a provisional motorcycle   licence.
Minimum Age	Moped: 16 years old   Motorcycle: 17 years old
When to Take	Can be taken before or after completing   Compulsory Basic Training (CBT).

II. Study Materials & Practice

Resource Type	Specific Content
Official Materials	The Highway Code   Know Your Traffic Signs   The Official DVSA Guide to Riding: the essential skills
Study Tools	Official DVSA Theory Test Kit (PC/Mac)   Official DVSA mobile app (Apple/Android)   Official theory test book   Traffic sign flashcards
Practice Tests	Free online practice tests available;   questions based on real exam topics.

III. Requirements on Test Day

Item	Specific Requirement
Essential Documents	UK photocard driving licence.   Northern Ireland licence holders must bring both photocard and paper   counterpart.
Special Circumstances	Paper licence holders must also bring a   valid passport.   Name change requires relevant documentation.
Important Reminder	Without the correct documents, the test   is cancelled and no refund is given.
Arrival Time	Must arrive 15 minutes early.
Electronic Devices	All devices must be switched off (phones,   smartwatches, etc.).
Personal Belongings	Must be stored in a locker or provided   plastic box.
Security Check	Includes showing pockets, rolling up   sleeves, metal detector check, etc.

IV. Exam Content Details

Exam Section	Number of Questions	Time Allowed	Content	Pass Mark
Multiple-choice	50 questions	57 minutes	Includes case studies based on real   riding scenarios.	43 out of 50
Hazard Perception	14 video clips	Untimed	Identify 'developing hazards'. (One clip   contains 2 hazards).	44 out of 75

V. Test Results & Validity

Result	Next Steps	Validity & Restrictions
Pass	Receive a pass certificate number.	Number is valid for 2 years. Must pass   the motorcycle practical test within this period.
Fail	Can rebook after 3 working days.	Must retake the full test (even if one   part was passed).

VI. Support for Special Needs

Need Type	Available Support
Reading Difficulty	Headphones to listen to questions   (English/Welsh).   Extra time.   Staff to read/record answers.
Hearing Impairment	British Sign Language video.   Free sign language interpreter.   Hearing loop.
Other Circumstances	Contact DVSA before booking to discuss   specific arrangements.

Practical Test

I. Test Structure & Booking

Item	Description
Test Components	Must pass two parts sequentially:   1. Module 1: Off-road test (manoeuvres in a safe, closed area).   2. Module 2: On-road test (riding in real traffic).
Prerequisite	Must have passed the theory test first.
Booking Rules	Modules can be booked separately or   together, but you must pass Module 1 before taking Module 2.
Lesson Requirement	No mandatory minimum number of lessons.

II. Required Documents & Equipment

Category	Specific Requirements
Documents to Bring   (All originals)	1. UK photocard driving licence.   2. Theory test pass certificate.   3. Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) certificate (unless upgrading a licence).   4. Module 1 pass certificate (for Module 2 test only).
Compulsory Equipment	1. Helmet: Meeting British safety   standards (Sikhs wearing a turban are exempt).   2. Boots: Sturdy footwear protecting the ankles.   3. Trousers: Motorcycle-specific or heavy-duty denim.   4. Jacket: Motorcycle-specific or heavy-duty denim jacket.   5. Gloves: Motorcycle gloves.
Reminder	Test cancelled and no refund if correct   documents/vehicle are not brought.   Replace lost documents by contacting the official body beforehand.

III. Test Vehicle Regulations

Vehicle Attribute	Regulation Requirements
General Requirements	1. Solo motorcycle (specific disabilities   excepted).   2. Speedometer must display mph.   3. Must display L-plates (D-plates in Wales).   4. Must be insured, taxed, and roadworthy.
Category & Power	Must use a vehicle that exactly matches   the licence category applied for:
Licence Category	AM (Age 16)	A1 (Age 17)	A2 (Age 19)	A (Age 24 direct / 21 progressive)
Vehicle Type	Moped	Light Motorcycle	Standard Motorcycle	Unrestricted Motorcycle
Engine Power	≤ 4kW	≤ 11kW	20-35kW	≥ 50kW
Engine Capacity	≤ 50cc	120-125cc	≥ 245cc	≥ 595cc

• AM class: For mopeds, the      entry level.

• A1 class: For light      motorcycles, the starting point for motorcycle licences.

• A2 class: For medium-sized      motorcycles, more powerful.

• A class: The highest category,      for all motorcycles.

Other Rules:

1. Passing the test on an automatic motorcycle restricts the      licence to automatics only.

2. Power-restricted vehicles require an official approval letter.

3. Electric motorcycles must meet equivalent power and range      requirements for their class.

IV. Module 1: Off-road Manoeuvres Test

Item	Details
Test Duration	Approx. 20 minutes
Assessed Manoeuvres	1. Wheeling & using stand.   2. Slalom & figure of eight.   3. Slow ride, U-turn.   4. Cornering & controlled/emergency stop.   5. Cornering & hazard avoidance.
Minimum Speed	Moped: 19 mph   Motorcycle: 31 mph (for hazard avoidance & emergency stop)
Pass Standard	0 serious or dangerous faults.   No more than 5 riding faults.

V. Module 2: On-road Riding Test

Item	Details
Test Duration	Approx. 40 minutes
Test Process	1. Eyesight check: Must   correctly read a number plate from 20 metres (failure ends test).   2. 'Show me/Tell me' vehicle safety questions.   3. Road riding: Includes various road conditions and   specific manoeuvres (e.g., hill start).   4. Independent riding: Approx. 10 minutes, following traffic   signs or directions.
Pass Standard	0 serious or dangerous faults.   No more than 10 riding faults.
After Passing	Can remove L-plates and ride alone   immediately.   Recommended to surrender provisional licence at test centre to automatically   receive full licence.

VI. Special Circumstances

Situation	Procedure
Adverse Weather	Test cancelled in hazardous conditions   (e.g., ice, thick fog).   Candidate should proactively call test centre to confirm.   DVSA automatically rebooks test; no compensation for extra costs.
Candidate/Vehicle Issue	If test cannot be completed due to   illness or vehicle failure, must pay to rebook.
DVSA Cancellation	(e.g., examiner illness) Automatically   get a new test date; can claim reimbursement for proven costs.
Disability or Health Condition	Examiner will make adjustments, e.g.:   Hearing impairment: Use written instructions & gestures.   Learning difficulty: Simplify independent riding instructions (e.g., using   diagrams).   Reading difficulty: Can write down seen number plate.   Pregnancy: Must be able to perform all test elements (e.g., emergency stop).

 

Firstly,

If you held a licence for a motorcycle or moped (including electric bicycles, motorised bicycles, or those with small engines) before 19 January 2013, different rules apply. For those after this date, to ride on public roads, you must first obtain a Provisional Driving Licence and then complete Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) to get your CBT certificate. Furthermore, after obtaining your CBT certificate, you must pass both the theory test and the motorcycle practical test within 2 years. If you do not pass both tests within this period, you must retake the CBT.

Then,

Motorcycles are divided into many categories, similar to the motorcycle licence classifications in China (e.g., D, E, F, where D covers all motorcycles including three-wheeled and two-wheeled, E covers all two-wheeled motorcycles, and F is only for two-wheeled mopeds under 50cc).

Therefore, the UK motorcycle licensing system is similar, with different categories. The type of licence you need depends on the type of motorcycle you wish to ride. Generally, most people aim for categories A, A1, or A2. The specific categories are detailed in the image below:

 

If you want to ride a motor tricycle in the UK:

A provisional Category B (car) licence and a provisional Category A licence are only valid for driving a motor tricycle if you have a disability. The practical test for three-wheeled motorcycles is only available to drivers with disabilities.

If you do not have a disability and wish to ride a motor tricycle in the UK, you need to pass your CBT. Provided you meet the following conditions, you can then ride a motor tricycle of any power output:

1. You are over 21 years old.

2. You have a full car driving licence.

3. You need to obtain a Category A1 motorcycle licence (the      version for motorcycles up to 15 kW) and a Category A motorcycle licence.

Ten-Litre Cat reminds you again: After obtaining your CBT certificate, you must pass both the theory test and the motorcycle practical test within 2 years. If you do not pass both tests within this period, you must retake the CBT.

Furthermore, if you hold an EU driving licence, before you can take the CBT course, you must fulfil one of the following:

1. Exchange your licence for a UK licence. [Link for exchanging      your licence: https://www.gov.uk/exchange-foreign-driving-licence/y]

2. Register your licence with the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle      Licensing Agency). If you register your EU licence, you must exchange it      for a UK licence after you pass the theory and practical      tests. [Link to register your licence with the DVLA: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/d9-application-to-register-a-non-gb-driving-licence]

How to learn to ride a motorcycle in the UK?

While learning to ride a motorcycle, you must have a provisional motorcycle licence. If you are using your own motorcycle, you need to ensure you have the following:

1. A valid V5C registration certificate (log book).

2. Valid vehicle tax.

3. A valid MOT certificate (if the vehicle requires one).

4. Adequate motorcycle insurance.

The Official DVSA Guide to Learning to Ride

You need to purchase the official DVSA guide, The Official DVSA Guide to Learning to Ride, as shown in the image below. This book, which previously cost £9.99 (the current price is £14.99), contains all the information you need to pass your CBT. The official purchase link is:

 【https://www.safedrivingforlife.info/shop/official-dvsa-guide-learning-to-ride/】：

2. Purchase The Official DVSA Guide to Riding - the essential skills, as shown in the image below. This book covers the content needed to pass the theory test. The previous price was £10.99 (the current price is £14.99). Official purchase link:

【https://www.safedrivingforlife.info/shop/official-dvsa-guide-riding-essential-skills/】

Of course, you can also search for the official books yourself. E-book versions and other related titles are available, including guides on UK road conditions. You can purchase according to your needs. Search link:

：【https://www.safedrivingforlife.info/shop/motorcycle/】

Taking the Full Motorcycle Test

1. Theory Test

2. Practical Test

The sequence of tests is as follows:

1. Obtain a provisional driving licence.

2. Pass the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT).

3. Pass the theory test.

4. Pass Module 1 (off-road practical test).

5. Pass Module 2 (on-road practical test).

6. Pass the practical riding tests.

This means that although the test seems to consist of only two main parts, you actually need to pass six distinct stages to obtain a full UK motorcycle licence. All these tests incur fees. For detailed information on each of these six stages, see the links below.

Stage 1: Obtain a provisional driving licence

Before you can take the motorcycle practical test, you must first pass the theory test. However, before you can take the theory test, you must have a provisional driving licence.
(Link to apply for a provisional licence: https://www.gov.uk/apply-first-provisional-driving-licence), as shown in the image below.

 

On the official website for applying for a provisional driving licence, the steps are also listed on the right-hand side. The third step involves various courses and materials, including introductions to traffic signs and rules, etc.

Stage 2: Pass the CBT

As mentioned before, CBT stands for Compulsory Basic Training.

Link to book/find CBT courses:

 【https://www.gov.uk/motorcycle-cbt】

reminds you: If you do not hold a valid CBT certificate, you could be fined up to £1000 and receive 6 penalty points. Therefore, this first stage is crucial. Aside from meeting the age requirement, you must also display L-plates on the motorcycle.

 

Stage 3: Pass the Theory Test

 

The link for booking the motorcycle theory test is: [https://www.gov.uk/motorcycle-theory-test]. Please note, before applying for this test, you must meet the prerequisites mentioned above, i.e., obtain a provisional driving licence, as shown in the image below:

After passing the theory test, and before you can book the practical test, you must also meet the following requirement:

Stage 4: Pass Module 1 - the off-road practical test

1. Pass Module 1 - the off-road practical test
Link for Module 1 test details and booking: https://www.gov.uk/motorcycle-test/module-1-offroad-test

This Module 1 test typically takes about 20 minutes. The test content includes:

• Wheeling the motorcycle and using the stand

• Riding a figure-of-eight

• Slow riding

• A U-turn

• Cornering and controlled stopping

• Cornering and emergency stopping

• Cornering and avoiding a hazard

 

Stage 5: Pass Module 2 - the on-road practical test

2. Pass Module 2 - the on-road practical test

Link for Module 2 test details and booking: https://www.gov.uk/motorcycle-test/module-2-onroad-test

Note: The modules can be booked separately or together. However, you must pass the Module 1 test before you can take the Module 2 test. The fee for each module is different.

 

Stage 6: Pass the Practical Riding Test

Once you have passed the previous five stages, you can then apply for this.

Link to book the practical riding test: https://www.gov.uk/book-driving-test

 

Reminder: Riders under 30 years old who have held a full UK motorcycle licence for less than one year are temporarily restricted from test riding motorcycles over 1000cc.

 

Ten-Litre Cat reminds you that while the process for obtaining a licence for different types of motorcycles in the UK is similar, the specific requirements vary. Therefore, before riding or applying for a UK motorcycle licence, first determine which type of motorcycle you wish to ride. The testing process for each category of UK motorcycle is shown in the chart below. The UK motorcycle categories include: AM (mopeds), A1 (light motorcycles), A2 (motorcycles), Category A motorcycles (for ages 21 to 23), and Category A motorcycles (for ages 24 or over), as follows: