Do you dream of whizzing past other traffic on two wheels? You can answer the call to two-wheeled adventure as early as your sixteenth birthday. In the UK, the dream of riding a motorcycle starts with the right training. Navigating the world of motorcycle training programs can seem a little daunting. Especially with terms like CBT, DAS, MOD1, and MOD2 floating around.
But we’ve got you! We’ll cover all the essential training options. Plus we’ll clearly map the different paths available for gaining the skills and legal elements for a two wheeled licence. That way, you can discover which route to a full motorcycle licence is the perfect fit for you.
Are motorcycle training programs necessary for riding in the UK?
It’s more than simply leaning into the sheer thrill of riding. A structured motorcycle training program is necessary for a few simple reasons.
Firstly, and most importantly, it’s about safety. Plus, it’s a legal requirement to ride on UK roads. Professional instructors know how to take you through all the necessary training stages to get a licence. You’ll learn essential aspects of bike control, hazard perception, and defensive riding strategies – knowledge that could be life-saving.
Quality training is about skill development. That development is best built in stages. That’s because it creates a firm foundation of motorcycle knowledge and techniques supporting you through all sorts of riding conditions. Learning basic manoeuvres through to dealing with different road conditions works better with a structured approach.
Finally, motorcycle training plays a vital role in confidence building. As you progress through the modules and master new skills under the guidance of experienced professionals, your confidence grows. Greater confidence translates to a more enjoyable and safer riding experience.
Who outlines motorcycle training programs in the UK?
You’ll learn from qualified motorcycle training instructors at a motorcycle training school that’s become an Approved Training Body (ATB), but the DVSA dictates what you learn. And the order you need to learn it. That’s to make sure you’ll achieve a minimum level of competence and safety before being let loose on public roads.
Everything from your Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) to the practical tests (MOD1 and MOD2) meet strict requirements. The DVSA approves and monitors all ATBs to make sure they’re working to the correct guidelines, training students thoroughly, and helping to maintain safety for everyone on our roads.
Your first step: Compulsory Basic Training (CBT)
If you passed your car driving test before 1 February 2001 and only want to ride a 50cc scooter, you can skip the CBT. Otherwise a CBT course is the first step to getting comfortable on two wheels.
You need a valid UK driving licence and appropriate riding gear, including a helmet, sturdy boots, gloves, and suitable clothing. We provide all your safety gear—except boots. We’ll remind you about what you need via email when you book your course.
So, what does the CBT involve? It’s a structured one-day program covering five key elements. Depending on your experience, it can sometimes take longer. This is what you can expect:
CBT Motorcycle training program syllabus:
- Element A – Eyesight check and introduction: This starts with a licence and eyesight check (reading a number plate from 20.5 metres), followed by an introduction to the course and protective clothing.
- Element B – On-site safety briefing and controls: You’ll learn about the motorcycle or scooter you’ll be using, get familiar with the main controls, and learn how to wheel the motorcycle and brake to a standstill.
- Element C – On-site riding practice: This is where you’ll get your first taste of riding. Under the guidance of your instructor, you’ll practice basic handling skills including straight line riding, turning, figure of eights, and braking.
- Element D – On-road safety briefing: Before going on public roads, your instructor will provide a thorough briefing on road safety, covering traffic laws, hazard awareness, and safe road positioning.
- Element E – On-road riding practice: This practical element involves riding on public roads under your instructor’s supervision, applying learned skills in various traffic situations to ensure safe and responsible riding.
Once you’ve got your CBT certificate you can ride unsupervised on public roads. You’ll need to display L plates (or D plates if you’re in Wales), and you can’t carry passengers, or ride on motorways. It’s valid for two years. If you don’t pass your full motorcycle test within those two years, you’ll need to re-take the CBT to continue riding on the road.
Moving to a full motorcycle licence: Direct Access Scheme (DAS)
If you’re eager to ride larger, more powerful motorcycles without restrictions, the fastest route is through the Direct Access Scheme (DAS). This motorcycle training program lets you train and test on the largest capacity motorcycle for your age.
Your age determines the category of full licence you can access through DAS. There are three main categories:
DAS Training is tailored to your experience level. For those new to motorcycles, a comprehensive full motorcycle licence training course is the best option. Our smaller class sizes mean you’ll benefit from tailored instructor tuition.
For off-road riders or experienced riders returning to biking, a fast track training option might be better. These intensive courses run over consecutive days. This lets you quickly brush up on your skills and finish with taking your licensing tests by the end of the week.
The two-part motorcycle licence test
Regardless of the course type, DAS training will prepare you for two practical tests:
- MOD1 Test (Off-Road): Assesses your ability to handle a motorcycle safely in a controlled, off-road environment. It includes a series of maneuvers such as slow riding, figure of eights, U-turns, hazard avoidance, and an emergency stop. Mastering low-speed handling techniques feels quite different from higher-speed riding. It’s the key focus. You’ll revist the angles, pressure, and steering techniques learned for MOD1 throughout your training to build muscle memory.
- MOD2 Test (On-Road): Evaluates your ability to ride safely and competently on public roads in various traffic conditions. The examiner assesses your general riding skills, road positioning, hazard awareness, and independent riding ability.
Successfully completing both the MOD1 and MOD2 tests on a 650CC or larger bike is the final step in your motorcycle license progression, granting you a full unestricted motorcycle licence. This allows you to ride the highest power of motorcycle for your age without L plates or passenger restrictions, opening up a whole new world of riding possibilities.
Other motorcycle training options to consider
While the CBT and DAS are the primary pathways to getting on the road, there are other motorcycle training options and important considerations for riders at different stages of their journey.
- Younger riders can move to A1 and A2 motorcycle licences. This offers an alternative to waiting until the minimum age for DAS Category A licence. At age 19, you can move to the A2 licence, permitting you to ride more powerful motorcycles. Many riders are happy with this licence level and don’t bother with a full unrestricted A licence. If you’d like a more powerful bike, you’ll be able to take another practical test to get your unrestricted Category A licence.
- Experienced riders will benefit from ongoing training too. Refresher Courses are great for riders returning to biking after a break or riders who want to brush up on specific skills and regain confidence. These courses focus on areas like slow-speed maneuvering, cornering techniques, eco riding, or hazard perception.
- Developing skills can be done with Advanced Rider Training programs. Schemes like the DVSA approved Enhanced Rider Scheme (ERS) deliver training that goes beyond standard motorcycle tests. These courses focus on developing advanced riding techniques, improving road safety, and enhancing your riding enjoyment. Successfully completing an ERS course can sometimes lead to discounts on motorcycle insurance.
The type of motorcycle training you choose will depend on your individual circumstances, including your age, prior riding experience (if any), and your goals for riding.
UK motorcycle training programs: costs and duration
Understanding the costs and time commitment involved is an important factor when choosing UK motorcycle training programs. The overall expense is influenced by your location, the specific training school you choose, the duration of the course required to reach the necessary standard. Of course, if you need to hire a motorcycle for training and testing, that’s an extra cost.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Compulsory Basic Training (CBT): Starting from £180 (can vary based on location and school), usually completed within a day.
- Direct Access Scheme (DAS) – Full Licence Training (for new riders): Starting from £790 (prices vary based on location and school). Typically ranges from 3 to 7 days of training, spread over a week or longer, depending on your learning pace. The MOD1 and MOD2 tests follow DAS training. We book DVSA test slots in advance so you can take your test as close to your training days as possible. All equipment, petrol, insurance and DVSA test fees are included in your training cost.
- Fast Track Training (DAS for experienced/returning riders): Starting from £690 (again, location and school dependent). This motorcycle training is an intensive course over 3 to 5 consecutive days, culminating in the MOD1 and MOD2 tests.
- Restricted Licence (A1/A2) Training and Tests: Costs and durations will vary depending on your experience and the specific training required for each licence category. It’s best to inquire directly with the training school for these options.
- Refresher and Advanced Rider Training Courses: Starting from £99 (ProSkills Introduction) and can range from a few hours to a full day or multiple days, tailored to individual needs.
Remember that these are Phoenix Motorcycle Training prices. If you’re not training with us, it’s wise to get detailed quotes from other DVSA-approved training schools. That way, you’ll understand their specific costs and timeframes.
Choosing the motorcycle training programs that are right for you is your first step to safely and legally enjoy UK roads. Research local, DVSA-approved schools, consider your needs, and book your course. With the right training, the freedom and joy of riding await you.
