Current test/licence rules

[Harris]

A couple of my friends are looking to get into riding and it's a long time since I passed my test so I'm unsure of what the current rules are.

Is direct access still available?

If I remember rightly I did CBT, about 3 lessons on a 500 and then did test and could ride what I liked as I was 21 at the time.

 

Whats the situation now, could they do the same route I did or is it the double test and two years at a certain power rule for everyone?

 

EDIT: just realised im in the wrong area posting this, too many topic sections on this forum haha

Edited October 13, 2022 by Harris

[Keeper96]

If over 24 they can do direct access on a 600+ and ride anything 

if under 24 it’s a bit more complicated but then there will be power restrictions  and another test required if they want to move up to a full license 

[bonio]

The basic way in for everyone is:

• CBT (I day with a relaxed assessment in the afternoon). After this they can ride up to 125cc on L plates
• Theory test for motorcycles (Highway Code multiple choice + hazard awareness, computer based)
• Two practical tests: Mod 1 (machine handling skills, about 10 minutes) + Mod2 (road riding, about 45 minutes)

If they're 24 or over and take Mod1&2 on a 600cc machine or bigger, they end up with a full licence that allows them to ride any bike. To do this, they have to go through a training school, as only qualified instructors are licensed to accompany them on bikes they wouldn't otherwise be allowed to ride.

Under 24, or a test taken on a smaller bike, they end up with a licence that carries bike restrictions.