So, the DSA (Driving Standards Agency) introduced some major changes to the Practical Motorcycle recently. There has been some confusion about what you can ride at what age and what you need to do.
Here we plan to simplify the information you need:
So – there’s no change to the CBT (compulsory basic training) requirements or to the Theory Test.
Please note if you gain any of the motorcycle licenses listed below this will exempt you from further CBTs and Motorcycle Theory Tests should decide to take another test to enable you to ride a larger bike (having reached the required minimum age). In other words you will only need to do your CBT and Theory once.
Also note that you do not have to take a test in each age category in order to progress. Whilst you could if you wished – you don’t have to.
Ages 17 and 18. You can take your cat A1 Test
Okay – you can take your Modules 1 and 2 on a machine between 120cc and 125cc. Having passed you can ride any 125cc machine, remove L Plates and take a pillion passenger. The engine size of the bike you can ride will not increase unless you go on to pass Modules 1 and 2 on a larger machine (having reached the minimum required age).
Ages 19, 20, 21 and 22. You can take your cat A2 Test.
So you can now take your test on a motorcycle of at least 395cc and having passed Module 1 and Module 2 can ride any machine up to 47bhp. Again no L Plates, pillion and Motorways allowed. This is excellent news as this is a more powerful bike than you would have been allowed to ride under the old rules at the age of 19 and 20. At the ages of 21 and 22 this would be an excellent ‘stepping stone’ to riding a larger bike or maybe you would, having reached the age of 24 (minimum) choose to pass the category A test to have a totally unrestricted licence.
Age 24 and Over. You can take your Cat A Test
You can now pass your Module 1 and Module 2 on a larger machine minimum 595cc. This will allow you to ride any machine of any engine size no L Plates, can carry pillion and go on the Motorway. This has always been described by the training industry as DAS (Direct Access) your route to a Full Unrestricted Licence.
Whatever route you choose – here at Two Wheel Centre we have our resident training school Two Wheel Training who would be happy to assist you achieve your goals.
Happy biking – keep it safe – have fun and we’ll see you on the road!