Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) for Motorcycles

Completing the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) is your first step in becoming a fully certified and licensed motorcycle rider

You will be pleased to know that you cannot fail the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) and in effect, there is not a time limit to how long it takes (though usually about 6-7 hours). Instead, the training is built around the completion of five elements.

The CBT tends to cost around £130 but can vary between providers – all of which can be found via the Gov.uk website.

All CBT’s must take place at a Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) Approved Training Body (ATB) which should have a good level surface for on-site training.

What to take to your Compulsory Basic Training

  • UK driving license
  • Motorcycle helmet (see more)
  • Motorcycle footwear (boots or sturdy footwear)
  • Textile or leather clothing
  • Motorcycle gloves

You are unable to ride your own moped or motorcycle without a CBT certificate. So, on the day of your training, leave your motorcycle at home and use one at the test centre.

The five elements of Compulsory Basic Training

Element A will cover…

  1. Aims and objectives
  2. Licence
  3. Eyesight test
  4. Clothing and equipment
  5. General road safety

Element B will cover…

  1. Machine controls
  2. Bike stand
  3. Operating the bike
  4. Bike positioning

Element C will cover – Riding the bike on site (throttle control, use of gears and clutch, braking, manoeuvres and observation skills)

Element D will cover – Classroom session covering a range of safety issues including weather awareness, road surfaces, traffic conditions, Highway Code, hazard awareness and correct rider attitude.

Element E will cover – Road riding section (2 hours). You will be in radio contact with your instructor and there should be a ratio of 2 students to 1 instructor.

Note: You will only be allowed out in the road if the instructor is confident that you are capable and have understood all the previous elements.

Successful completion of this and therefore all of the other elements will result in obtaining your CBT pass certificate (DL196).

Wondering what happens after your CBT? Read our Module 1 and Module 2 posts for tips and advice.


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