CBT
Compulsory Basic Training is the first step everyone has to take. We will check your documents and eyesight. You can use your own bike but most riders borrow a training school bike. It involves a mixture of theory, basic bike control, practice riding on an off road car park area; it's an ongoing assessment that isn't conducted on a pass or fail basis. It is usually done in one day and if you pass you will be given a DL196 pass form, which is valid for 2 years.

Theory test
You now need to take a multiple choice test of about 35 questions lasting about 30-40 minutes, complete with a series of video clips where a candidate must pick out developing hazards. There are plenty of books available to guide you but its up to you to do your homework! Since 1 February 2001, anyone wishing to take a motorcycle test must pass the theory test before they can book the practical test. There is no exemption for Car Licence holders.

Moped Licence
If you are 16 then this will be your first step. A moped has an engine up to 50cc with a maximum speed 30mph. Anyone who passed their car test after 1st February 2001 must now complete a CBT before they can ride a moped.

Restricted Licence
If you pass this test you will be able to ride bikes up to 25KW/33bhp (which covers most cruiser/commuter 250cc bikes.) for 2 years after which you will be able to ride any bike. You will be able to carry a passenger and lose the L-plates. The test is taken on a 125cc bike and this time you will be followed by a Driving Standards Authority Examiner with a one way radio. They will be watching for safe, confident riding skills including emergency stop, hill starts, u-turns and the route will include most traffic hazards ie traffic lights, roundabouts and right turns.

Direct Access
If you are over 21 and would prefer to learn on a larger bike and not have the 33bhp restriction then this is the route to take. You will have similar training to that of the restricted licence starting out on a 125cc but will then progress onto a larger bike. Most training schools prefer a CB500 or similar. You cannot train independently as the rules say you must always be accompanied on the road by an instructor in radio contact. Pass this test and you can ride whatever you like straight away.

Accelerated Access
If you have taken a restricted licence test and decide you don't want to wait the 2 years to step up to a larger bike and you are over 21 you can take this test.