To ride a motorcycle legally in England, you must meet certain requirements and follow specific regulations. Here are the key requirements:
Age: You must be at least 16 years old to ride a moped (up to 50cc) or a light quad bike (up to 50cc and limited power). To ride a motorcycle over 50cc or a motor tricycle, you must be at least 17 years old.
Compulsory Basic Training (CBT): Before riding on public roads, you must complete a CBT course, which provides essential training and guidance for novice riders. The CBT certificate is valid for two years and allows you to ride with L-plates (D-plates in Wales) or an "L" on the back of your helmet.
Provisional Motorcycle License: To progress beyond a CBT, you need a provisional motorcycle license. You can apply for this at age 16 for mopeds and age 17 for motorcycles. You can obtain the application form from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) or apply online.
Theory Test: Before taking your practical motorcycle test, you must pass a motorcycle theory test. The test consists of multiple-choice questions and a hazard perception section. The theory test can be booked online or by phone.
Practical Motorcycle Test: To obtain a full motorcycle license, you must pass a practical riding test. The test assesses your riding abilities in various scenarios, including maneuvers, road riding, and an independent riding section. Upon passing the test, you will receive a full motorcycle license.
License Restrictions: If you pass your test on an automatic motorcycle, your license will be restricted to automatic motorcycles only. To ride a manual motorcycle, you must pass your test on a manual bike.
It's important to note that these requirements are subject to change, and it's advisable to check the official government websites, such as the DVLA or GOV.UK, for the most up-to-date information and any additional requirements or regulations that may apply.