Using a motorcycle to cut through the busy city traffic is a practical and cost-effective choice for many people, however deciding which motorcycle test you need can seem complicated.  If you’ve made the decision to get your motorbike licence then the next step is to find the right motorbike course.

There are many motorbike training schools in central London to choose from however the best choice is always through word of mouth referrals or checking online reviews. The training school should only ever use DVSA-approved instructors and preferably, have access to a DVSA-approved training site. 

Beware of the training school that takes your money without asking the right questions about your motorcycle riding ability. They’re only after your money and will not care about your safety on the road. 

Here at North London Motorcycle Training school we are authorised by the Driving Standards Agency as an ‘Approved Training Body’, and we can deliver your CBT course and issue your certificate (DL 196) on site. We have access to a large training site where you can perfect your skills before taking to the open road.

In this guide our aim is to walk you through the best course for you, depending on your age and bike of choice. Whether the dream is to go full throttle on a big bike down an open country road, or to scoot through the city traffic on a 125cc, we’ll tell you everything you need to know.

Age 16

If you’re 16 years’ old, before you can learn to ride you must take your Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). The first step is to apply for a provisional licence. When you have your licence, you can take the CBT.  Completing your CBT will ensure that you fully understand the basics of riding a motorcycle. The course is laid out so that you will go from being a complete novice to a competent motorcycle learner in just one day.  To book your CBT online, click here.

After passing your CBT, you can ride a moped up to 50cc with L Plates.

Age 17-18

Before riding a motorcycle, you must take the CBT course as above.  If you have already taken your CBT, you can ride a motorcycle up to 125cc with L Plates. 

Want to get rid of the L Plates? You can get your A1 bike licence which allows you to take off the L Plates, ride on motorways and carry a pillion passenger. 

Age 19-20

If you have a full or provisional licence you are eligible to complete a CBT which allows you to ride a scooter or motorcycle up to 125cc with ‘L’ Plates, you are also eligible to take your A2 Licence (DAS) which allows you to ride a motorbike or scooter up to 35kW. 

Age 21-23

You will need to have held the A2 Licence for more than 2 years before being allowed to get your full A Licence which allows for riding on motorbikes of any engine size or power output. 

Age 24+

If you have a full or provisional licence you are eligible to complete a CBT which allows you to ride a scooter or motorcycle up to 125cc with ‘L’ Plates, you are also eligible to take your A Licence (DAS) which allows you to ride any type of motorbike or scooter that is produced. 

A Licences (reminder)

A1 Licence

Take off your L plates
Ride on motorways
Carry a pillion passenger
Ride motorbike or scooter up to 125cc

A2 Restricted Licence

Take off your L plates
Ride on motorways
Carry a pillion passenger
Ride motorbike with a power output of no more than 35kw.

Full A Licence

Take off your L plates
Ride on motorways
Carry a pillion passenger
Ride motorbike of any engine size or power output.

Motorbike Course

The above motorbike course offerings all involve taking practical tests and your motorcycle theory test.