Have you ever wished you could experience the same thrill you get on two wheels in your daily work? Most of us riders consider motorcycling as more than a hobby or mode of transport—it’s a passion. The great news is, you can turn that passion into a rewarding career. Becoming a motorcycle instructor lets you make a difference to someone’s life and experience the freedom and exhilaration of riding each day.
It’s a job that’s in high demand, thanks to the freedom, fun and fulfilment you’ll experience. Not to mention the countless people waiting to gain their licence so they can experience the freedom of two wheels too. Becoming a motorcycle instructor offers a unique blend of challenge, reward, and deep satisfaction from helping new riders discover the joy of the road safely.
This guide will take you through everything you need to know about becoming a motorcycle trainer in the UK. We’ll cover the essential qualifications, the training process, what a typical day looks like, and the incredible rewards you can expect. Whether you’re a seasoned rider looking for a career change or someone who loves the idea of a job involving motorbikes, this guide lets you know exactly how to get where you want to be – in a career that makes you want to leap out of bed and get to work each morning.
The path to becoming an instructor might seem daunting, but with the right guidance, it’s a journey well worth taking. As a leading provider of motorcycle instructor jobs, we can help you every step of the way. So jump on and take a look at the road leading to a rewarding, exciting and fulfilling career on two wheels.
A motorcycle instructor does more than just ride
Being a motorcycle instructor is so much more than just sitting on a bike. You’ll get to share your love and passion for motorbikes with others keen to ride. You’ll tap into your passion, patience, and proficiency each day. The job may look simple from the outside, but you’ll perform a range of duties and develop a strong motorcycling skillset that goes far beyond simple riding lessons.
Motorcycle instructor job responsibilities and duties
Your core role as a motorcycle trainer is to guide new riders. You’ll take them from their very first tentative moments on a bike to the point where they become confident, safe, and legal road users.
Each day brings a new challenge. You could find yourself doing any and all of the following:
- Teaching Compulsory Basic Training (CBT): This is the foundation of the UK’s motorcycle training. You’ll be responsible for taking students through all five elements of the CBT course. From the initial bike familiarisation and safety checks to on-road riding. This is where most instructors begin their journey as ‘shadow instructors’. It’s any motorcycle training school’s core offering and a hugely rewarding part of the job.
- Training for Full Licences (DAS): As you progress, you’ll have the opportunity to train students for their full motorcycle licence. You’ll complete your own in-depth training on public roads to become qualified for this. Once you’re certified, you’ll begin preparing students for their two-part practical motorcycle licence tests and teaching the skills needed to handle larger, more powerful machines safely.
- Providing Post-Test Training: To build on your licence training skills, you can also learn how to deliver advanced training. These qualifications are gained through nationwide motorcycle bodies like the Driving Instructors Association (DIA), DVSA, and Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM). This is about helping experienced riders further develop their skills and safety awareness. Of course, you’ll be developing your own skills with this training too.
- Vehicle and Equipment Management: You’ll need to check all training bikes and safety equipment are in perfect working order. This includes regular checks and maintenance to guarantee a safe learning environment for you and your students.
- Training admin: At the beginning of training sessions, you’ll check licence and test certificates, kit students out with safety gear that fits and make sure all paperwork is in order. Once training is over, you’ll record feedback for each student in your training about how the training went and to create a progress report. That ensures other instructors can pick up and continue training students with an understanding of their strengths and weaknesses as riders. And, of course, you’ll be issuing CBT certificates once students reach the required level of motorcycling competence.
The Importance of Motorcycle Instructor Training
It’s one thing to be a skilled rider; it’s another to be a skilled instructor. Your training with an Approved Training Body (ATB) bridges this gap. There are specific standards each ATB needs to meet to help you become a competent and qualified instructor, but each has their own style.
Our process for training motorcycle instructors is a little more comprehensive than most other ATBs. It’s structured to give you the skills you need to become an effective, patient, and successful instructor. You’ll start by working towards a nationally recognised training qualification. The Level 3 Award in Education and Training gives you a firm foundation of teaching skills. The short, online course teaches you how to teach—a very different skill from knowing how to ride.
Once you’ve got your Level 3 AET, we’ll teach you how to break down complex riding skills into manageable steps. You’ll learn how to identify and correct bad habits, how to give encouraging feedback, and how to adapt your teaching style to suit different student personalities and learning paces. At the end of your training, you’ll know how to teach someone else to ride safely.
Career paths and specialisations
A career as a motorcycle instructor isn’t a dead-end job. You have clear paths for progression, autonomy and even opportunities to open your own motorcycle training school or Phoenix Franchise. You might start as a “down-trained” CBT instructor, but you can then work towards becoming a fully DVSA-assessed instructor, a DAS instructor, and advanced training instructor. Motorcycle instructor careers let you set your own pace and achieve your own goals.
So, how do you become a motorcycle instructor?
If you’re seriously considering a career as a motorcycle instructor, you’ll want to know what qualifications and experience you need. And the training path you’ll take to become a full fledged instructor. The path is well-defined and you’ll be able to choose the direction and turns you take on the way too. The training process ensures every motorcycle trainer is fully prepared to take on the responsibility of teaching.
Essential qualifications and certifications for instructors
Before you can even begin training to become an instructor, there are a few key boxes you must tick. These non-negotiables set the standard of safety and quality for students.
- A Full Motorcycle Licence: You must be over 21 years of age and have held a full, unrestricted motorcycle licence (category A2 or A) for three years or more. If you gained your licence and haven’t ridden for a while, you’ll still meet this requirement. We’ll work to re-familiarise you with riding as part of your instructor training.
- A Clean Driving Record: Your driving and riding history is important. While minor endorsements may not be a deal-breaker, a history of serious motoring offences is likely to prevent you from qualifying. Considering you’ll be working to train riders for the road, a clean licence is always a significant advantage. You can have a maximum of three current points on your licence and a total of six points in the past four years.
- DBS Check: You will need an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. This is to ensure you’re of good character and is also a mandatory requirement for anyone working with the public because it shows you’re suitable for a position of trust. You’ll need to share official ID documents like your licence or passport. We’ll complete the application and submit it to the DBS for processing. Once the checks are complete, you’ll be sent a DBS certificate that you need to share with us.
Training providers and qualifications
Your training is the crucial element of becoming a certified motorcycle instructor. The most common and easiest is joining an established ATB like us. Different motorcycle training schools have slightly different processes to support you through your training. We offer a unique ‘Earn as You Learn’ model that makes the process accessible, affordable and focused.
- Earn as You Learn: This path to becoming a motorcycle instructor means you don’t need to worry about the question of “How much does it cost to become a motorcycle instructor?” Typically, training can cost well over £1,000. Our ‘Earn as You Learn’ model means we cover the costs of your initial training and certification. That’s in exchange for your commitment to work with us for two years. You’ll be able to focus on learning without the financial burden and continue in a secure motorcycle instructor job once you’re qualified.
- CBT Instructor Certification: Your first milestone to becoming a fully qualified motorcycle instructor is gaining your certification as a CBT instructor. This part of your down-training focuses on the practical and theoretical elements of the Compulsory Basic Training syllabus. Our comprehensive course includes a mix of classroom theory, on-site riding instruction, and on-road shadowing. Once you have this qualification, you can move onto learning how to become a DAS motorcycle instructor
- DVSA Assessment: While your in-house training certifies you as a CBT instructor, the ultimate certification is granted by the DVSA. We help prepare you for this. The assessment involves a series of tests on your riding ability and instructional skills with a DVSA examiner as your student.
- DAS Instructor Qualification: Just like your CBT instructor qualification, your DVSA assessment is easier if you’ve had experience with an ATB. The qualification has the same format as your licence test. You’ll begin with a theory test. That’s followed by your two-part practical assessment. The first part is an assessment of your riding skills and safety awareness and control. The second part is an assessment of your training ability—you’lll have a DVSA examiner as your ‘student’.
Carving your own path to be a qualified motorcycle instructor
You can take the two-day DVSA assessment to become a CBT motorcycle instructor without getting a placement with an ATB first. But it’s not recommended. That’s because you need to show you’re experienced in delivering the five CBT course elements. That’s a tall order for someone who’s never tried it before. DVSA CBT assessments are free and you can apply for them by downloading and completing a form. You can’t take more than two CBT assessments in a twelve month period.
How long does it take to become a motorcycle instructor?
This is a common question, but the answer isn’t cut and dried. It depends on your commitment and a few external factors. If you choose to work with us through our ‘Earn as You Learn’ model the path from your initial enquiry to being a certified motorcycle trainer usually takes three months to complete your CBT downtraining and prepare for the two-day CBT assessment.
If you decide to go it alone, without ATB sponsorship at all, it could take you a few months but is more likely to take a year or more. Not to mention cost you more too!
Your initial motorcycle instructor training period with us is intensive, so you get up to speed fast. We’ll work with you to complete your training in the most efficient way possible, working with your schedule and commitments. When you’re ready for the DVSA assessment, we’ll help you with the application forms too.
Practical experience requirements
Unlike some professions, the practical experience required to become a motorcycle trainer is gained as part of the job itself. As a “down-trained” or “shadow” instructor, you’ll start by observing and assisting our experienced instructors. Your hands-on experience is invaluable and forms a core part of your learning. Gradually, you’ll take on more responsibility with the support of a seasoned professional.
Building a successful motorcycle instructor career
Once you’re a qualified CBT and motorcycle licence trainer, you’ll have a few different paths to choose from. For many, the goal is a stable and rewarding motorcycle instructor job. For the most ambitious, it could be starting your own business. No matter which road you choose, you’ll find a fulfilling career with great opportunities to develop your skills and aspirations for motorcycle training.
Finding employment opportunities
The demand for good motorcycle instructor jobs is high, especially in the UK’s urban centres. When you complete your training with an Approved Training Body (ATB), like us, your path to employment is straightforward. You’ll be guaranteed a secure position, meaning you don’t have to worry about finding students, providing bikes, or managing the day-to-day admin.
This is a major benefit of working with an established school. Focusing solely on what you do best—teaching—makes for fun days. All the hard parts of running an ATB: marketing, bookings, insurance, and maintenance, is taken care of for you. You get a reliable, steady flow of students, an easy-to-manage schedule, and the support of a team of experienced motorcycle trainers.
If you’re searching for “motorcycle instructor jobs near me,” checking out the websites for local schools is wise. Often schools with multiple sites advertise their vacancies there instead of job boards. And larger schools can offer you work with less travel and more time on the road.
Of course being a motorcycle instructor doesn’t mean you’ll be stuck teaching new riders forever. There are other coaching and training roles you’ll be qualified for too, should you want to switch things up.
How much does a motorcycle instructor earn?
As with any job, the income of a motorcycle instructor varies. Your earnings depend on factors like your qualifications (CBT, DAS, Advanced Rider Training), the number of hours you work, the courses you teach, and where you’re based.
Usually, new CBT instructors expect to earn around £150 per day, based on a full-time position. As you gain experience and further qualifications, such as becoming a DAS instructor, your earning potential increases significantly. Many of our instructors work full time hours and earn around £35,000 a year. Working more or less than full time hours will, obviously, impact your earnings.
Starting your own motorcycle training business
Some instructors dream of becoming their own boss. It’s a path that requires more than just good riding and teaching skills. You could choose to open a franchise, or break out on your own and open a new ATB. You’ll need significant capital to invest in a franchise or new ATB. If opening your own business, you’ll need to invest in a fleet of training bikes, safety gear, and insurance. You’ll also need to find a suitable training site and be responsible for all business operations, including marketing, accounting, and admin.
Working for a well-known brand like us, Phoenix Motorcycle Training, removes this burden completely, allowing you to bypass the risks and get straight to the rewarding part of the job. For those who want the autonomy of running their own business with the security of a trusted name, a Phoenix franchise is a great opportunity where you’ll get the best of both worlds.
Key skills and qualities for success as an instructor
While having the right qualifications and training is essential, what truly separates a good motorcycle instructor from a great one are the things you can’t train for. The personal skills and qualities that make you, you. The personality traits and experiences that let you share your passion with others. These attributes make the difference in your connection with students and their confidence and success as riders.
Teaching and communication skills
Being an expert rider is only half the battle; the other half is being able to effectively teach what you know. A great motorcycle trainer knows how to communicate clearly, concisely and compassionately. They can break down complex manoeuvres—like a slow-speed U-turn or a precise emergency stop—into simple, manageable steps that are easy to understand.
Your role will be to explain, demonstrate, and provide constructive feedback in a way that connects with students. That means you don’t just know what to say, but also how and when to say it. You’ll learn how to use effective hand signals, voice commands, and on-board communication systems to guide your student safely on the road. But your natural communication style and willingness to communicate your love of motorcycles matter too.
Patience and empathy
Learning to ride a motorcycle can be a challenging and intimidating experience. Students have different fears, anxieties, and learning paces. So, a great motorcycle instructor needs to have a calm demeanour that offers reassurance.
Patience is a non-negotiable part of the job. You’ll need to remain calm when a student stalls for the tenth time or struggles to find their balance. Empathy allows you to understand their frustrations and fears. It helps you build trust and tailor your instruction to their specific needs. Remember, a confident rider is a safe rider, and confidence grows with the patient guidance of an understanding mentor.
Riding ability and knowledge
Training prepares you to teach but you must be a proficient and knowledgeable rider first. That’s why you’ll need to have held your motorcycle licence for at least three years
A great instructor can demonstrate how to execute a turn and understands the underlying physics and road conditions that make it safe. You’ll also need a deep understanding of the Highway Code, road safety best practices, and the mechanics of a motorcycle.
Staying up-to-date with new rules, regulations, and technologies is a continuous part of being a professional motorcycle trainer. Your students trust you to be an expert. Your riding ability and knowledge are the foundation of that trust.
Business acumen
This is an often-overlooked skill, but it’s vital for a successful career—particularly if you’re going to open your own school. While you won’t need to be an expert in accounting or marketing (we take care of that for you!), you do need to be professional, punctual, and have a client-focused attitude.
Being reliable, organised, and friendly goes a long way in ensuring students have a positive experience. It also ensures the business runs smoothly. It’s an essential quality for anyone looking for motorcycle instructor jobs.
Challenges and rewards of teaching people to ride
No job is perfect, and a career as a motorcycle instructor is no exception. It’s a job that can be physically and mentally demanding. But for those with the right skills and passion, the rewards are immense. Understanding both the challenges and the unique fulfillment you’ll get from teaching others to ride will help you decide if it’s right for you.
Is being a motorcycle instructor hard?
In a word, yes. But it gets easier with experience and it’s hard in the most rewarding way. The difficulty often comes not from the riding, but from the demands of teaching and mentoring.
- Balancing work and personal life: You’ll be spending long hours outdoors in all kinds of weather. That takes a certain level of physical and mental resilience. The training season can be intense—long hours will be spent on the road. Finding the right balance requires discipline, but job flexibility can also be a benefit.
- Dealing with different student personalities: You’ll meet a diverse range of people—from the completely fearless and over-confident to those who are terrified of traffic. Your patience will be tested. You’ll have to adapt your teaching style for each individual. You’ll have students you love and some that you don’t. A motorcycle trainer isn’t just a teacher; you’re a coach, a counsellor, and a source of reassurance.
What is the hardest thing to do on a motorcycle?
For most students, the hardest thing isn’t a specific manoeuvre like a U-turn or a slow-speed slalom. The hardest things are their own mental hurdles. Letting go of their fear and trusting themselves. Or overcoming their false bravado and letting themselves learn at a pace that works for them.
The greatest challenge for an instructor is supporting students to believe in their ability and find confidence in their skills. It’s a psychological and emotional task, not a physical one.
Job satisfaction and fulfillment
This is the part that makes all the challenges worth it. There is nothing quite like the feeling of seeing a nervous, hesitant learner take to the road with confidence, new-found skill, and pride in their ability.
- The feeling of a job well done: That moment when a student passes their test, the look on their face, the celebratory handshake—it’s a pure and profound sense of accomplishment. You were a critical part of their journey, and it’s a feeling you just don’t get in typical roles.
- The joy of the road: A job involving motorbikes means you’re not stuck in a cubicle, classroom, or care home. You spend your days doing what you love, in the fresh air, surrounded by people who share your passion. You get to ride every day and share the feeling of freedom that comes with two wheels.
- Making a tangible difference: You are not just teaching a skill; you are teaching a life-saving one. You’re equipping people with the confidence and knowledge to navigate the road safely for years to come. That’s a legacy to be proud of.
Your adventure awaits
We’ve covered the complete journey to becoming a motorcycle instructor. We’ve talked about the essential qualifications, the training process, the rewarding career paths, and the key personal skills that will put success within reach. And you know what challenges to expect. Not to mention, the unique fulfillment that comes from making a tangible difference in someone’s life.
This is a career where your love for motorbikes brings joy to others and job satisfaction to you. It’s an opportunity to escape the typical 9-5 grind and build a life around your passion. All while sharing your passion, the freedom and joy of the open road, and skills for riding safely.
If you’re ready to turn your passion into a purpose, your next step is to get in touch! We’re looking for enthusiastic, dedicated motorcycle trainers ready to bring energy and commitment to our motorcycle courses. We’ll support you with the training, the certification, and the ongoing support you need to build a successful career—we’ll even help you start your own franchise!
Your adventure as a motorcycle trainer starts here. Apply for a role with us today.
