The Official DVSA Guide to Learning to Ride

section one

GETTING STARTED

This section covers

• About this book

• What is CBT?

• The CBT course

• Approved training bodies

• Your motorcycle licence

Message from the Chief Driving Examiner

Riding a moped or motorcycle is fun and reduces traffic congestion. It gives you freedom and independence, but you have to remember how vulnerable you are on the road.

Over the years, different laws have been introduced to improve moped and motorcycle rider safety. They include the compulsory wearing of safety helmets, restrictions on the size of motorcycle that a learner can ride, and the theory test for learner riders – including the hazard perception test.

Compulsory basic training (CBT) was introduced in 1990. It’s a training course, with no test or exam, which gives new riders the basic skills they need before riding unaccompanied on the road. CBT has had a really positive impact on road safety, but over the next few years we’ll be looking at ways we can improve learner riders’ knowledge and understanding at this stage.

Once you’ve done your CBT and passed the theory test, the next step towards getting your full motorcycle licence is passing the practical test modules, when you’ll need to show your examiner that you can ride your motorcycle safely on the road.

The riding standards we’ll be looking for are explained simply, and with illustrations, in this book.

Riding is never predictable so, even after you’ve passed your test and have a full licence, you’ll carry on learning. You’ll be riding in different weather conditions and come across new hazards and traffic situations. Using the skills you’ve learnt and the guidance from this book, you’ll be able to calmly assess each new situation and ride through it safely.

Learning to ride a motorcycle is a continuous process, and the tests are just one stage in your riding career. When you’ve passed your test, you should ask your instructor about the DVSA Enhanced Rider Scheme which’ll help you enjoy your riding even more and stay safe on our roads.

Make it your aim to have a lifetime of safe riding.

Mark Winn

Chief Driving Examiner

About this book

Sections 1 and 2 of this book are designed to help you get the most out of the CBT course. Refer to them as you progress through each element and they’ll help you gain a better understanding of what you need to achieve. The other sections will help you learn to ride competently and prepare for and pass your practical motorcycle test modules.

Important factors

You’re just beginning your motorcycling career and this book is only one of the important factors in your training. Other factors you need to consider include

finding a good trainer

adopting a positive attitude

patience and practice.

How you choose to develop as a motorcyclist is up to you. You should aim to be a safe and confident rider for life. Don’t just put on a show for your test and then revert to a lower standard. Take pride in always setting a good example.

CBT will give you the basic skills you need to begin riding safely on the road.

How will each section of this book help me?

Section 1 Outlines the five elements of the CBT course and tells you what you need to know about your motorcycle licence.

Section 2 Explains the details of each element of the CBT course.

Section 3 Contains advice on how to continue your training after CBT and tells you what you need to do before the test.

Section 4 Details the requirements of the off-road module of the motorcycle test and gives simple, clear advice.

Section 5 Details the on-road module of the motorcycle test and gives advice whether you pass or fail.

Section 6 Gives details about the extended test for disqualified riders.

Section 7 Details the recommended syllabus.

Books to help you study

The official DVSA range will provide you with a sound knowledge of riding skills and safe riding practices.

The Official DVSA Theory Test for Motorcyclists This contains official revision theory test questions for motorcyclists, including thorough explanations of the answers.

The Official DVSA Guide to Riding – the essential skills This is the official reference book, giving practical advice and best practice for all riders.

The Official Highway Code This is essential reading for all road users. It contains the very latest rules of the road and up-to-date legislation, as well as advice on road safety and best practice. It’s also available as an eBook and as an iPhone app.

Know Your Traffic Signs This contains the vast majority of signs and road markings that you’re likely to encounter.

The information in these books will be relevant throughout your riding life, so make sure that you always have an up-to-date copy to which you can refer.

Other media

The Official DVSA Theory Test for Motorcyclists (DVD-ROM) This provides an interactive way of learning. You can also practise taking a mock theory test.

The Official DVSA Guide to Hazard Perception (DVD-ROM) DVSA strongly recommends that you use this, preferably with your instructor, to prepare for the hazard perception part of the test. The DVD-ROM is packed with useful tips, quizzes and expert advice. It also includes more than 100 interactive hazard perception clips, and your performance will receive a score so you’ll know if you’re ready to pass.

Better Biking – the official DVSA training aid (DVD) Expert advice on improving your skills and post-test rider training.

You can buy official DVSA learning materials online at safedrivingforlife.info/shop or by calling our expert publications team on 0333 200 2401. The team can give you advice about learning materials and how to prepare for the tests and beyond. They can also help you select suitable learning material if you have a special need; for example, if you have a learning disability or English isn’t your first language.

DVSA publications are also available from book shops and online retailers. DVSA apps can be downloaded from the iOS App Store and eBooks are available from your device’s eBook store.

What is CBT?

Compulsory basic training (CBT) is the course that all learner motorcycle and moped riders must complete before riding on the road.

In addition, holders of a full car licence obtained by passing their driving test on or after 1 February 2001 must complete a CBT course if they wish to validate the full moped entitlement on their driving licence.

CBT can only be given by approved training bodies (ATBs) that have trainers who have been assessed by DVSA and sites approved by DVSA for off-road training.

CBT allows you to learn the following in a safe environment

motorcycling theory

skills that make you safe on the road

the correct attitude towards motorcycling.

Exemption from CBT

You don’t have to take CBT if you hold a

full moped licence obtained by passing a moped test after 1 December 1990

full motorcycle licence for one category and wish to upgrade to another.

You’ll also be exempt if you live and ride on specified offshore islands. However, if you ride across to mainland UK you’ll need to complete CBT.

Certificate of Completion

When you complete a CBT course you’ll be given a Certificate of Completion of an Approved Training Course (DL196).

Since 1 February 2001 the DL196 has recorded whether CBT was completed on

a moped or motorcycle

a motorcycle/sidecar combination or moped that has more than two wheels.

This will validate