CBT, A2, DAS and Scooter Rental FAQs
People are constantly phoning, emailing and asking in person about all sorts of subjects connected with motorcycling. In this FAQ section we try to answer the majority of the popular questions. However if there is anything that isn't covered here, please do not hesitate to contact us. We'll keep expanding and updating this section so do keep checking back.
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Glossary of Terms
DVLA |
Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency |
DSA |
Driving Standards Agency |
ATB |
Approved Training Body |
Theory Test |
Taken on a touch screen at special Theory Test centres, this checks your knowledge of legal and safety aspects of riding in the UK and uses video clips to check your reaction to hazards. |
Practical test |
The “Driving Test” or in this case riding test, where the DSA examiner follows the candidate to make sure their riding is of a high enough standard to be granted a licence. |
DAS |
Direct Access Scheme |
CBT |
Compulsory Basic Training |
Accelerated Access |
If the candidate already has a (non DAS) licence, Accelerated Access means taking the test again on a DAS bike to avoid waiting to ride larger bikes. |
A2 Standard Licence |
This is the type of licence you get if you do the Practical Test on a 125. It is a “Full” licence allowing you to discard L plates, ride on motorways and carry pillion passengers. You are limited to a machine of 33bhp for two years, then this restriction falls away and without doing anything further, you can ride what you like. |
D441 |
A form of temporary driving licence issued to the holder or to Driving Test Centres bearing a copy of the information on the licence. This lasts for one month and normally only one will ever be issued. |
Moped |
A very specific definition applies. The engine is no more than 50cc. Does not exceed 250kg. It is capable of no more than 50kph (approx 31mph). For old machines, if first used before 01/08/77 they must be able to be moved by pedals but have no speed restriction. May be automatic or manual. |
Scooter |
The common name covering twist & go or automatic motorcycles. Generally with an automatic clutch and continually variable transmission (one gear). Some scooters such as Vespa's T5 or PX have a clutch and gears and are classified as manual motorcycles when taking a test. |
Semi-automatic |
A machine which has automatic clutch but manual gears Hondas old C90 and new Innova being examples |
Manual |
A machine having both clutch and gears |
Government Departments involved in licensing and training
Q: Who are the Government agencies involved?
A: There are two; the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) and the Driving Standards Agency (DSA). The DVLA issues driving licences (amongst other things such as car tax and registration marks) and the DSA is responsible for controlling the quality of CBT courses offered by ATBs, conducting Theory Tests (via a third party contractor) and conducting Practical Tests.
Q: What is the difference between the DVLA and DSA
A: There are two; the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) and the Driving Standards Agency (DSA). The DVLA issues driving licences (amongst other things such as car tax and registration marks) and the DSA is responsible for controlling the quality of CBT courses offered by ATBs, conducting Theory Tests (via a third party contractor) and conducting Practical Tests.
Licensing issues for purposes of training
Q: I have a car licence, do I get a separate motorbike licence?
A: No, you only have one UK driving licence, with different categories telling you what you are allowed to drive as a learner, and those to which you have full entitlement (i.e. what you may drive without L plates). Get a ban in a car, and you aren't allowed to ride either!
Q: I've had a car licence for years, do I have to do a CBT?
A: For a category A machine (up to 125cc) yes you do. The CBT will last two years, you must display L plates, can't go on motorways and can't carry passengers. For a category P machine (up to 50cc legally defined as a moped) if you passed your car test before Feb 2001, the DVLA will also have given you a full P entitlement. This means it's just like having passed a test on a moped, you can dispense with L plates, CBTs and may carry passengers (but still not use motorways where there is a 50cc lower limit). If you passed your car test after Feb 2001 you will receive a full P category which only becomes valid after obtaining a CBT certificate. This will then last for your driving career. You can also do this the other way round i.e. Pass a driving test whilst holding a current CBT certificate.
Q: What are the categories do I need for two wheelers and where are they on the licence?
A: Categories and licence design have varied over the years. On the new photocard style, a licence bearing only provisional categories will have those categories on the back of the photocard. For a licence bearing at least one full entitlement, the full entitlements appear on the back of the photocard and the provisional entitlements appear on the front of the paper counterpart. The latest categories are P for moped and A for motorcycles. Others have been used in the past on older paper licences so check the definitions, which should appear somewhere on the licence.
Q: I have a non-UK licence, is this okay for taking my CBT?
A: Unfortunately not, this is another difference between the DVLA and DSA. Many foreign licences allow the holder to drive for varying amounts of time after entering the UK ; however the DSA will not allow a test to be taken (CBT, Theory or Practical) with an overseas licence. There are three ways of getting a UK driver number:
- Exchange your foreign licence for a UK one (this means giving up your licence and obtaining a UK one in its place).
- You can apply afresh for a UK provisional licence.
- For European Economic Area countries you can apply for a GB counterpart licence (D58/2)
The country of origin of your licence will dictate which of the above routes are open to you and what restrictions are placed upon on any exchanged licence. Check with the DVLA to find out which routes are open to you.
Q: What are the DSA regulations for checking licences?
A: Quoting from DSA ATB Circular 2/2004; “Prior to the commencement of a CBT course the trainee's licence must be checked to ensure that they have the correct category entitlement. Trainees must produce both parts of their licence (photo card and counterpart) otherwise they must produce a D441 which the trainee can obtain from the DVLA. No other form of verification is acceptable to the Driving Standards Agency.” This was confirmed by telephone conversation with Mary Harrison, CBT section 28/07/04 . Regardless of the course the trainee is taking, the licence checks must be completed. In the event of any licensing problems, the instructor would be prosecuted for aiding and abetting an unlicensed driver.
Q: If I am 17 and I take an A2 test, what can I ride and when can I ride any size of bike?
A: The same rules apply for anyone at any age doing an A2 test, there is just a two year wait riding a machine of less than 33bhp. After this time, regardless of age, you can ride any machine.
Q: What size/sort of bike is a 33bhp bike?
A: It can be two different things. A machine like a Honda CBF 250 which naturally puts out less then 33bhp or a machine which has been restricted by an authorised dealer to an output of 33bhp. The latter has the advantage that after the two year wait, the restrictor kit is simply removed rather than changing the bike. Hence it is a power limit, not a cc limit.
Q: I am sixteen, what can I ride?
A: You can only ride a moped. See the Glossary for definitions. Take your CBT and the day you turn 17 you can ride a 125 with the same CBT.
Q: How do I get a Provisional Licence?
A: Application forms (D1) are available from Post Offices. Only photocard licences are issued nowadays so you will need two passport sized photographs and supply proof of identity. There is more in depth information on the DVLA website.
Preparation for Training
Q: What do I need to bring?
A: Apart from the documentation discussed elsewhere in this document, you will need glasses or contact lenses if you would normally need them to pass the eyesight test. Appropriate clothing is also required, for instance those wearing mini-skirts and flip flops will not be allowed to take the course. Helmets, jackets, gloves, waterproof trousers, gloves and hi viz waistcoats will be provided.
Q: Are there any special medical requirements?
A: Not other than the usual specified by the DVLA, if they are prepared to issue you with a licence, we are willing to teach you. Remember for a CBT or Practical Test you will be required to read a number plate before it starts. If you can't in either case, you will be turned away and forfeit your fee. Bring glasses or contact lenses if you need them to reach this eyesight standard.
Q: Do I need to do any preparation for the CBT?
A: Not really but we would advise that you have read the latest copy of the Highway Code beforehand.
Q: I've never ridden before, do I need to do any practice?
A: No. The CBT course assumes no knowledge, the lowest common denominator is a 16 year old who has never driven on a public road and never ridden a bike. Having said that, being able to ride a bicycle will obviously make things easier!
Q: What happens if it is raining, will we still train?
A: Of course. You will have to ride in the wet so we will train unless conditions are dangerous i.e. ice or hurricanes. Failure to turn up for a CBT, because its raining and you think we'll cancel, will result in a forfeit of the fee.
Q: When does Get Bike conduct training?
A: Seven days a week. Call for up to date availability and prices.
Q: How long does the course last?
A: The course takes a full day. We have calculated that a correctly delivered course with excellent candidates will take a minimum of six hours so allow for the course to run until late afternoon.
Q: I've got a CBT but I did it on a 50cc automatic, can I ride anything else?
A: Yes, the CBT is just a course of training, not a test, so regardless of what machine you use, you may ride any learner legal machine automatic or manual upon completion of your training providing you hold the correct provisional entitlement.
Q: What paperwork do I need for a CBT using the school's bike?
A: Just a valid UK Driving Licence (issued in Swansea or Northern Ireland ) which means one of several things:
- A photocard style licence, both parts, the plastic card and the paper counterpart.
- An old style paper only licence supported by id bearing photograph and signature such as a passport.
- A valid D441 supported by id as in 2. above
Q: What paperwork do I need for a CBT using my own bike?
A: You will need:
- A valid licence (as explained above)
- Full size L Plates displayed front and rear
- Valid road tax displayed on the machine
- MOT certificate if the machine is older than its third birthday from its date of first registration
- Valid insurance certificate
The instructor will ask to examine each of the above on the day of training. All must be present and correct.
Preparing for the full motorbike test
Q: What do I have to do before taking my test?
A: You need to do the CBT and take a Theory Test. We will book your test for you when we arrange your training; to do this we need your Theory Test Pass Certificate number.
Q: Does it matter what order I do my Theory Test and CBT?
A: No.
Q: Can I do my Theory Test with Get Bike?
A: We can help you with the Theory Test in various ways but it is booked and taken directly with the DSA. Get Bike has tried to book Theory Tests for candidates in the past but have invariably found it easier for the candidates to match available slots with their dairies.
Q: I've have a full car licence, do I have to do a motorcycle Theory Test?
A: Yes regardless of how long you have held a car licence and even if you have done a car Theory Test to gain it, there is no exemption through holding a car licence.
Q: I've have a full car licence, do I have to do a motorcycle Theory Test?
A: Yes regardless of how long you have held a car licence and even if you have done a car Theory Test to gain it, there is no exemption through holding a car licence.
Q: Is anyone exempt from taking a motorcycle Theory Test?
A: Yes, if you already hold a full licence for another category of motorcycle or have passed a moped test since 01/07/96 .
Q: How long do my CBT and Theory Test certificates last?
A: They both last two years. If they run out just repeat them! If you are using the CBT to validate a P category, on a car licence passed after February 2001, this will last until your 70 th birthday. (N.B. The CBT will also validate the P category if you subsequently pass a car test when you possess a current CBT)
Q: How much is the Theory Test?
A: Currently £20.50
Q: How much is the Practical Test?
A: The motorcycle test on its own costs £51.00 whether for A2, Accelerated Access or DAS.
Q: I've heard of DAS, A2 and A1 motorcycle tests. What are the differences between these tests?
A: In essence nothing. You could argue that for DAS tests the examiner would be a little more picky when they know that you could be going out and riding a Fireblade when you pass. The type of licence you get is simply dictated by the type of bike upon which you take your test. See the table at the end of these FAQs for the bike/category matrix.
Q: Can I do my practical test on a scooter?
A: You may take your test on any scooter however if it is an automatic, just as with cars, you will be restricted to automatics upon passing your test.
Q: I have a full automatic bike licence, how do I get it de-restricted for manual machines?
A: You'll need to do another practical test on a manual machine. The full licence (with automatic restriction) will act as a provisional for you to ride a manual, but all the normal learner restrictions will apply.
Miscellaneous / Obscure questions of law and regulations
Q: Can I do CBT or test on a three-wheeler?
A: This is a very varied area. For instance CBT can be done with a sidecar but full test can only be done with the sidecar if the rider is registered disabled. If the rider was able bodied but just never wished to ride a solo they would still be compelled by law to do the practical test on a solo. As for trikes, the law is even more complicated to navigate. Please contact Get Bike on a case by case basis.
Q: What machines are acceptable for the various tests?
A: In addition to the table below and other Note; regardless of the legalities, licensing issues and vehicle classes acceptable to other government agencies, the DSA can decide what they will accept for the Practical Test and CBT (and it may vary between these two!). Race Replicas are not suitable for practical test due to their poor turning circle. BMW C1s are not acceptable CBT or Practical) due to the roof, making it difficult to push in a U-turn and the health and safety issues if it is dropped. Three wheelers classed as mopeds are not suitable for CBT due to their not being representative of the general class of machine. Basically, anything out of the ordinary is unlikely to be acceptable. Again, refer to Get Bike on a case by case basis.
Q: What machines are acceptable for the various tests?
A: In addition to the table below and other Note; regardless of the legalities, licensing issues and vehicle classes acceptable to other government agencies, the DSA can decide what they will accept for the Practical Test and CBT (and it may vary between these two!). Race Replicas are not suitable for practical test due to their poor turning circle. BMW C1s are not acceptable CBT or Practical) due to the roof, making it difficult to push in a U-turn and the health and safety issues if it is dropped. Three wheelers classed as mopeds are not suitable for CBT due to their not being representative of the general class of machine. Basically, anything out of the ordinary is unlikely to be acceptable. Again, refer to Get Bike on a case by case basis.
Q: Who is exempt from wearing a helmet?
A: Only members of the Sikh religion wearing a turban.
Q: What helmets are legal to use?
A: Only motorcycle helmets (don't laugh, I've seen pillions riding through London ranging from no helmet to an American Football helmet)! Legal to sell and legal to use are two different things. Legal to sell are BS 6658 and ECE R 22-05. There is also a provision for helmets which “comply with any standard accepted by an EEA State which offers a level of protection which is equivalent to (i.e. the same as, or better than) British Standard BS 6658:1985 and are marked with a certification mark which is equivalent to the British Standard 'kitemark'”.
Legal to use are those as above and formerly legal standards (i.e. the law isn't retrospective).
My Test Vehicle |
The Full Category |
What I'm Allowed to drive |
A motorcycle over 75cc and less than 125cc and capable of less than 62.5 mph (100 km/h) |
A1 sub-category |
Any motorcycle up to 125cc and a power output of 11kW (approx. 14.6 bhp) |
A motorcycle over 120cc and less than 125cc and capable of at least 62.5 mph (100 km/h) |
A2 immediately and an A category that starts in two years time |
Immediately, any motorcycle (regardless of capacity) capable of producing no more than 25kW (approx. 33 bhp) and a power/ weight ratio not exceeding 0.16kW/kg. After the two years elapse, any motorcycle |
A motorcycle of at least 35kW (approx. 46.6 bhp) |
A category starts immediately |
Any motorcycle |
Car test (passed before 1 st February 2001 ) |
P category |
Any moped |
Useful Numbers
Get Bike |
020 8326 3366 |
Get Bike Web Site |
www.getbike.net |
Get Bike Email |
|
DSA Theory and Practical Test Booking |
0870 010 1372 |
DSA Web Site |
www.dsa.gov.uk |
DVLA Driver Licensing |
0870 240 0009 |
DVLA Web Site |
www.dvla.gov.uk |
Contact us at Get Bike in West London: call 020 8326 3366 or email: