Getting Started

The process of obtaining a motorcycle license offers several options depending on your age and preferences:

1. CBT (Compulsory Basic Training):
   • This is the first step for all aspiring motorcyclists.
   • It allows you to ride a motorcycle or scooter up to 125cc with certain restrictions.
2. Motorcycle Theory Test:
   • After completing the CBT, you’ll need to pass the Motorcycle Theory Test.
3. Module 1 Test:
   • This practical test assesses your off-road riding skills, including maneuvers such as slalom, figure-of-eight, and a U-turn.
4. Module 2 Test:
   • The final practical test evaluates your on-road riding abilities, focusing on your ability to handle real-world traffic situations.

The specific steps to obtaining your license depend on your age:

• Aged 17+: A1 Test
  • Allows you to ride a motorcycle up to 125cc only.
• Aged 19+: A2 Test
  • Permits you to ride motorcycles up to 400cc only.
• Aged 24+: A Test
  • Grants you the privilege to ride motorcycles of any size.

The introduction of the 3rd EU Driving Licence Directive has brought about changes to the licensing process. The previous automatic upgrade to a full license after two years for A2 Restricted Licence holders has been replaced by Progressive Access.

Under Progressive Access, individuals wishing to upgrade to the next license category must wait for two years since passing their motorcycle test and then re-take the test on a motorcycle of the next size-up.

For example:

• If you took your test at 17 on a 125cc motorcycle, you would wait until you’re 19 to take the A2 test on a motorcycle up to 400cc.
• Then, at 21, you could take the Direct Access Scheme test on a motorcycle of at least 600cc and more than 50kw (67 bhp) to gain a full license.

Alternatively, you could wait until you’re older to take the A2 test and then re-take the test at 24 on a 600cc motorcycle to gain a full license.

This new route provides flexibility for riders to progress through different license categories based on their age and motorcycle experience. It’s essential to consider your options carefully and choose the path that best suits your riding goals and preferences.

FAQ

1. Why bother with the A1 Light Motorcycle Licence if it only allows riding up to a 125cc motorcycle?
   • In short, there’s little incentive. Most 17 & 18-year-olds opt for the CBT, which permits riding up to a 125cc motorcycle with L-plates (no passengers or motorway). The A1 license is rarely pursued.
2. If I wait until I’m 19 to take my motorcycle test, do I still start with a 125cc motorcycle?
   • No, at 19, you’re eligible for the A2 Restricted Licence, which allows riding a 400cc+ motorcycle. After passing, you can ride any motorcycle up to 35kw (46.935bhp), with passengers and on motorways.
3. Why not wait until I’m 24 and take the test once?
   • There are several reasons: a Restricted Licence offers utility, especially for younger riders facing insurance penalties. Also, taking the test at 19 allows for earlier progression. Waiting until 24 means missing out on potential riding experience and undertaking multiple CBTs.
4. Difference between Accelerated Access and Progressive Access?
   • Progressive Access involves waiting 2 years after obtaining an A2 Restricted Licence before re-taking the test on a 600cc motorcycle. Accelerated Access allows taking the test again once you reach the appropriate age, with a valid Theory certificate.
5. Will I need CBT and Theory Test certificates for Progressive Access?
   • No, as long as you’ve passed both the CBT and Theory Test for your initial test, and have waited 2 years, you won’t need them for the next test.
6. Will the test for Progressive Access be the same as Module 1 & 2?
   • Yes, the test structure remains the same, differing only in motorcycle size and age of the candidate.

These FAQs aim to clarify the complexities of motorcycle licensing, ensuring riders have the necessary information to navigate their licensing journey effectively. If you have further questions or require assistance, feel free to contact us.