Training
What training do I need to take? The starting point for learners is Compulsory Basic Training (CBT).
This is a course run by training bodies approved by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA).

Compulsory Basic Training (CBT)
• You MUST complete CBT before riding on the roads for the first time.
• CBT certificates (DL 196) are valid for two years from the date of issue.
• You will need to re-take CBT if you do not pass both the theory and practical tests before your CBT certificate expires.
CBT must be completed before riding on the road by all learners who are resident on mainland Great Britain, on islands that are connected to the mainland by a road, and on the following islands: Wight, North Uist, Lewis, South Uist, Harris, Benbecula, mainland Orkney and mainland Shetland. Residents of all other islands are exempt from the need to take CBT, but only if riding on roads which are on an exempted island. A CBT certificate issued when the course has been completed on a motorcycle and sidecar combination, or a moped with more than two wheels, will restrict the provisional
riding entitlement (or full moped entitlement on a full car licence) to such vehicles.
Once you have successfully completed CBT, and have your certificate (DL 196), you can carry on to take additional training to pass the theory and practical tests and qualify for a full motorcycle or moped licence.

Direct Access
If you do not already hold a full motorcycle licence you may, after completing CBT and passing the theory test, take the practical test on a motorcycle with a power output of
at least 35kW. A pass would then allow you to ride any bike. All or part of the CBT course may be taken on either a learner bike or a large bike. You may practise for the practical test on a large bike provided you: are accompanied AT ALL TIMES by an authorised Direct Access instructor who is riding another bike and in radio contact,  wear fluorescent or reflective clothing and  follow all other provisional licence restrictions.

Standard Test

The standard test is taken on a motorcycle between 121cc and 125cc and capable of at least 100 km/h (approx. 62 mph). After passing the standard motorcycle practical test you will be restricted for two years to riding a machine with a power output of up to 25kW and a power/weight ratio not exceeding 0.16kW/kg. After the two year period you may ride any bike.