Compulsory Basic Training
What is the CBT?
CBT Stands for Compulsory Basic Training. If you want to ride a moped, scooter or motorcycle
it is a compulsory training course. It's designed to get you up and riding safely and confidently
by the end of the training course. We keep our CBT groups very small to ensure you get the
instruction you require.
What do I need to bring with me for my CBT course?
On the day of your CBT course, we must see your provisional/driving
licence. That's both photo card and paper counterpart. If you still have the
older styled paper licence, we must see an additional form of photographic ID
such as a passport. The only other requirement is that you are appropriately
dressed. This means you must be fully covered up in a long sleeve top/jacket
and trousers.
What footwear shall I wear?
You will learn about safety equipment and clothing during your CBT.
Motorcycle boots are best suited but we understand that not everyone can afford
the right equipment for their CBT. As long as your foot is fully covered up
then that is the basic requirement. Bring boots with you if you wish but some
people will find that their boots are not best suited. It is a good idea to
bring footwear you are comfortable in (not flip flops or sandals).
What do I get at the end of the course?
The CBT certificate you receive is valid for 2 years and gives you the ability to ride up to
125cc on the road as a learner (or up to 50cc if you are 16 years old). This means you
cannot ride on main roads (i.e. motorways), must display L plates on front and rear of your
bike, and you cannot carry passengers (pillions).
What happens when the CBT certificate expires after 2 years?
If you want to continue riding a small bike, you must re-new your
CBT certificate by completing the course again. However, if you want to
progress onto a larger motorcycle you should go for a motorcycle licence within
the 2 year validity of the CBT certificate.
Do you need a theory test in order to do CBT?
No, you do not need to have completed a theory test before coming in to
do your CBT. However, it is an excellent idea to read through the Highway Code
which is available for £2.50 from most bookstores. If you are looking to get a
motorcycle licence, it is also a good idea to do the theory test as well
although it is not a requirement for CBT.
Motorcycle licences (A2 restricted or Direct Access Scheme)
Are you between 17 and 23 years of age? If so, Please see the
homepage regarding the latest update on motorcycle licencing
and the law in the UK
How do I get a motorcycle licence?
In order to obtain a motorcycle licence you must hold a valid CBT certificate, motorcycle theory
test certificate and successfully pass both Module 1 and Module 2 practical tests.
What are the Module 1 and Module 2 practical tests?
Module 1 is the specified manoeuvres test. Module 2 is the practical on
road riding test. Module 1 is a 10-15 minute test carried out by a DSA examiner
at the test centre. There are 11 manoeuvres to do such as the figure of 8, U
turn, slalom and controlled stop. During training, we take you to Basildon test
centre to practice on the actual Module 1 area. Therefore, you will be totally
familiar with the MMA (Motorcycle Manoeuvre Area) when you go to test. Once you
pass Module 1, you are then able to do Module 2 which is the on road riding
test. A DSA examiner will follow you for approximately 40-45 minutes and assess
your ride. Successfully passing Module 2 gains you a motorcycle licence.
What licence will I get?
17 years of age and above: A2 restricted licence: If you are 17 years
and up, you can do your motorcycle training and tests on a 125cc sized
motorcycle or scooter. You will gain an A2 restricted licence which means you
are restricted up to 33bhp for 2 years. Once the 2 years are up, your licence
will automatically upgrade to a full category A licence which means you can
ride any motorcycle of any engine size without further training. However, if
you feel you would like some training on a larger bike- you are always welcome
to return to ART for some refresher training.
21 years of age and above: Direct Access Scheme (Full unrestricted
motorcycle licence) If you are 21 years of age and above, you can do your
motorcycle training on a 500cc motorcycle. On passing both practical tests,
Module 1 & Module 2, you will receive a licence which allows you to ride any
sized motorcycle without restriction. If you feel you would like some training
on your first new big bike, then why not book up a training session with us to
increase your confidence and practice your riding skills.
What size motorcycle is 33bhp?
Generally speaking, most motorcycles can be restricted to 33bhp. This
doesn't affect the acceleration so much but will affect the top speed of which
your motorcycle can achieve unrestricted.
How much will it cost me in total?
In our experience, we find that most people only need 2 - 3
training sessions and both tests to obtain a motorcycle licence. It can be paid
for in parts (i.e. what you do on the day) and we never ask for any one lump
sum at once unless you decide to book a package. This makes it more affordable
and accessible to everyone.
How long will I have to wait for a Module 1 or 2 test?
As a training school, we can sit on pre-booked test slots so we can
confirm these with you straight away. If none of our options suit your
availability then as long as we know what times you prefer, we will pull in
tests as and when they become available (availability is sporadic and changes
constantly). This usually happens within a week, two weeks at most.
How long will it take to get a motorcycle licence?
The answer is purely down to the individual's ability and progression
through training. As you know, you must hold a valid CBT and theory test
certificate before attempting the practical tests. It is a good idea to get
everything done before your CBT certificate expires so you don't have to do it
all again. Your Module 1 pass certificate is valid for the life of your theory
test certificate. Therefore, you get however long you have left on the theory
test certificate to complete both Modules. So for example, if you completed the
CBT and theory test at a similar time you will have a whole 2 years to
successfully pass Module 1 and 2 and spread the cost out of training out over
this period.
I want to get it all done quickly- is this possible?
Yes, we have had many students come to us and obtain a licence within a
week or two- this is very possible however it does depend on our availability
and the individual student's progress. Contact us to find out the availability.
What happens if I fail Module 1 or 2?
The target is to always pass first time and with ART, our first time
pass rate is exceptional. We are not blowing our own trumpets but the way we
train (i.e. get the training you need before going to test) means we produce
high first time pass rates. There is no pressure on anybody to be pushed to
test as it is your decision. Should you fail Module 1 for whatever reason, you
must wait 3 clear working days to re-attempt it. This is why we strongly advise
that people take a modular approach to training and tests. If you had Module 2
booked up immediately after Module 1 as is common on an intensive course, you
would forfeit and lose the Module 2 test fee. Please be aware that should you
fail Module 2, you must wait 10 clear working days before re-attempting it.
These are not our rules but policies set by the DSA (Driving Standards Agency)
Do I need a theory test before I begin training?
You do not need a theory test in order to do your CBT. However, we need
a theory test certificate number to book you into Module 1 and Module 2 tests.
Therefore, you can still train in preparation for the tests but you will not be
able to do Module 1 or 2 without the theory test.
Please do not hesitate to get in touch should you have any further queries about motorcycle training