What is a CBT Course

CBT – Compulsory Basic Training (UK)

Compulsory Basic Training is a mandatory course you must complete before riding a motorcycle or moped on public roads in the UK (unless you have a full motorcycle license).  

What CBT allows you to do

After completing CBT, you can ride:

• A moped (up to 50cc) if you’re 16 or over
• A motorcycle (up to 125cc) with L plates if you’re 17 or over

You cannot carry passengers or ride on motorways with just a CBT.

Validity

• The CBT certificate is valid for 2 years from the date of issue 
• You must retake CBT if you don’t pass your full motorcycle test within that time

What the training includes

CBT is usually a one-day course covering 5 elements:

1. Element A: Eyesight check, introduction to the course and safety equipment
2. Element B: Basic motorcycle controls and weekly, fortnightly checks
3. Element C: Off-road riding skills demonstration use of the motorcycle (on a training site)
4. Element D: Highway code and safety briefing before taken on to the public roads 
5. Element E: On-road training and riding (with instructor)

You don’t need to pass a test, but you must demonstrate safe riding ability to receive your CBT certificate (DL196)