Full Motorcycle Licence
There are a number of different licence categories but whichever licence you decide to apply for you will take exactly the same test.
Compulsory Basic Training
You will need to complete a CBT training course if you wish to ride a motorcycle or scooter up to 125cc. The only exception is if you obtained a car licence before the 1st February 2001 and only wish to ride a moped (a moped has an engine not over 50cc with a maximum designed speed not exceeding 31 miles per hour.)
On completion of your CBT you will be allowed to ride a 50cc moped if you are 16 years of age or a 125cc bike if you are 17 years of age or older. You must display L plates and you cannot carry a pillion or travel on motorways.
A CBT licence is valid for two years. During the two years you can go on to take your full motorcycle licence or you can retake your CBT at the end of the two years.
Category A1 - Full Light Motorcycle Licence
If you are happy to stick with riding a 125 motorcycle then you can do your test on a motorcycle with an engine capacity between 75cc and 125cc, and a maximum speed of at least 63mph.
Category A2 - Restricted Standard Motorcycle Licence
If you are between 17 and 21 or are over 21 and are not interested in immediately riding a motorcycle over 125cc then you will apply for this licence. This licence allows you to pass your test on a motorcycle or scooter with an engine between 120cc and 125cc and a max speed of at least 63mph.
On passing your test you will receive a restricted licence which allows you to ride a motorcycle not exceeding 33bhp for two years. You will not need L plates and can carry a pillion and travel on motorways.
After two years of riding a restricted bike you will be given a full category A motorcycle licence and will be free to ride any size motorcycle. If you are still under 21 at the end of the two year period you will still get a full licence and be allowed to ride any bike.
Category A Licence or Direct Access
If you are older than 21 then you can take your test and get a full motorcycle licence via the Direct Access Scheme. On completion of the test you will be able to ride any cc motorcycle and will have no restrictions.
|