Question 1

What is a CBT?

Accepted Answer

CBT stands for Compulsory Basic Training. It is a mandatory course you must complete before riding a moped or motorcycle on public roads as a learner.

Question 2

Is a CBT a test?

Accepted Answer

No. CBT is a course of compulsory motorcycle training rather than a conventional pass-or-fail test.

Your instructor issues a DL196 certificate when they are satisfied that you have completed all required elements safely and to the DVSA standard.

Question 3

How old do I need to be?

Accepted Answer

You must be at least 16 years old to take CBT.

If you are 16, CBT only allows you to ride a 50cc moped. From age 17, CBT can be used for a motorcycle or scooter up to 125cc and 11kW.

Question 4

What can I ride at 16?

Accepted Answer

At 16, you can only ride a 50cc moped with a maximum speed of 28mph.

You cannot ride a 125cc motorcycle at 16, whether it is manual or automatic.

Question 5

What can I ride at 17 or older?

Accepted Answer

If you are 17 or older, you can ride a motorcycle or scooter up to 125cc with a maximum power output of 11kW.

This applies once you have completed CBT and while your DL196 certificate remains valid.

Question 6

Can I ride a manual motorcycle at 16?

Accepted Answer

No. At 16, CBT only permits you to ride a 50cc moped.

If you want to ride a manual motorcycle up to 125cc, you need to be at least 17 years old.

Question 7

What licence do I need for CBT?

Accepted Answer

You need a valid UK driving licence, either provisional or full, to take CBT.

UK provisional licences are accepted. If you have an EU licence, it must be registered with the DVLA before your course.

Question 8

Can I do CBT with an EU licence?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but only if your EU licence has been registered with the DVLA.

On the day you must bring your EU licence and the DVLA registration certificate.

Question 9

What documents do I need for the CBT?

Accepted Answer

You must bring your original driving licence documents to the course.

Bring your full or provisional UK driving licence, or an EU licence registered with the DVLA, plus the DVLA registration certificate for EU licences. If you have an old-style paper licence, bring photo ID as well.

Question 10

How long does the certificate last?

Accepted Answer

Your CBT certificate (DL196) is valid for two years.

Once it expires, you must either retake CBT or pass a full motorcycle test to keep riding legally.

Question 11

What happens when it expires?

Accepted Answer

You must retake the CBT course or pass your full motorcycle licence tests to continue riding legally.

You cannot keep riding on public roads once your CBT certificate has expired.

Question 12

Can I ride on motorways?

Accepted Answer

No. Motorway riding is not allowed on a CBT.

You must hold a full motorcycle licence before using motorways.

Question 13

Can I carry passengers on CBT?

Accepted Answer

No. You cannot carry passengers while riding on a CBT.

Carrying a pillion passenger requires a full motorcycle licence.

Question 14

Do I need to display L-plates?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You must display L-plates on both the front and rear of the bike while riding on a CBT.

This applies for the whole time you are riding as a learner.

Question 15

How much does a CBT cost in London?

Accepted Answer

CBT prices in London Motorcycle Training currently range from £189 to £249 depending on location and demand.

You can view current training locations and prices on our booking page: https://www.londonmotorcycletraining.co.uk/booking

Question 16

How much does CBT cost?

Accepted Answer

Prices vary from £189 to £249 depending on demand and location.

View our training locations and prices on our booking page - https://www.londonmotorcycletraining.co.uk/booking

Question 17

What is included in the CBT price?

Accepted Answer

The CBT price includes the training bike, insurance, helmet, gloves, and high-visibility vest at no extra cost.

We can also provide a jacket, waterproofs, and boots if needed.

Question 18

Can I book a CBT online?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can book a CBT online through the London Motorcycle Training booking page.

Online booking is for one person at a time. If you want to book for a group, please call us instead.

Question 19

How soon can I book a CBT in London?

Accepted Answer

CBT availability depends on the location and upcoming course dates.

The quickest way to check is to view live availability on our booking page or contact the office if you need a course urgently.

Question 20

Are weekend CBT courses available?

Accepted Answer

Yes, weekend CBT courses are available at selected centres.

Weekday and weekend dates depend on the location, so please check the booking page for current availability.

Question 21

Which CBT centre is nearest to me?

Accepted Answer

That depends on where in London you are based.

London Motorcycle Training runs CBT courses at Barnet, Dalston, Eltham, Hackney Marshes, Tottenham, Vauxhall, West Ham, and Wood Green, so you can choose the most convenient centre when booking.

Question 22

What time does the CBT start?

Accepted Answer

LMT courses start at 8:00 AM.

Please check your booking confirmation in case your centre has any specific arrival instructions.

Question 23

Does the CBT take one full day?

Accepted Answer

Yes. CBT normally takes one full day.

The training usually lasts around 6 to 8 hours, assuming you complete all elements successfully.

Question 24

How long does the CBT take?

Accepted Answer

The training usually lasts a full day, assuming you complete all elements of the course successfully.

Most riders should expect the day to run for around 6 to 8 hours.

Question 25

What are the five elements?

Accepted Answer

The CBT course covers five required elements.

These are an introduction, on-site training, on-site riding, on-road preparation, and on-road riding.

Question 26

How long is the road ride?

Accepted Answer

The road ride must include at least two hours of supervised riding on public roads.

This is the final on-road element of the course.

Question 27

What is the instructor-to-pupil ratio?

Accepted Answer

For the on-road element, the maximum ratio is one instructor to two pupils.

This allows your instructor to supervise and guide each rider safely in traffic.

Question 28

Can I take a CBT without riding experience?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many people take CBT with no motorcycle experience at all.

You do not need previous riding experience, but you should be able to ride a bicycle confidently and have a basic understanding of the Highway Code.

Question 29

What if I don't complete all CBT elements?

Accepted Answer

If you do not complete all elements to the required standard, your CBT will not be completed that day.

If you do not reach the required standard of each element after repeated attempts, your session will end and you will need to rebook and pay again.

Question 30

Should I book an automatic or manual CBT?

Accepted Answer

It depends on what you want to ride afterwards. Many beginners choose automatic scooters, while riders planning to use geared bikes often prefer manual training.

Once you pass CBT, you can ride either a manual or automatic motorcycle up to 125cc if you are 17 or older.

Question 31

Automatic vs manual CBT bike - does it matter?

Accepted Answer

No. Passing CBT does not restrict you to one transmission type.

Once you pass the CBT you can ride a manual or automatic motorcycle up to 125cc.

Question 32

Can I pay on the day?

Accepted Answer

No. Full payment is required at the time of booking to secure your place.

We do not hold CBT spaces without payment.

Question 33

What should I wear?

Accepted Answer

You should wear practical protective clothing suitable for riding.

Bring a long sleeve sturdy jacket with no hooded jogging tops or puffer jackets, jeans with no rips or tears, and leather ankle boots. Layers and waterproofs are recommended in bad weather.

Question 34

Are trainers allowed?

Accepted Answer

No. Sandals, canvas shoes, and lightweight trainers are not permitted for safety reasons.

You should wear sturdy boots that protect your ankles.

Question 35

What gear do you provide?

Accepted Answer

We provide key riding gear at no extra cost.

That includes a helmet, jacket, gloves, hi-vis vest, waterproofs, and boots if needed.

Question 36

Do I need my own helmet?

Accepted Answer

No. You do not need to bring your own helmet.

At no extra cost we supply a helmet, jacket, gloves, hi-vis vest, waterproofs, and boots if needed.

Question 37

Do I need to know how to ride a bicycle?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You should be able to balance and ride a bicycle confidently before attending.

That makes the basic control exercises much easier and safer.

Question 38

Do we meet at the training centre?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You should arrive at your booked training centre on the day.

Please go to the specific location shown in your booking confirmation.

Question 39

Do I get my certificate on the day?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You will receive your DL196 certificate on the day if you complete CBT successfully.

This is issued once your instructor is satisfied that you have completed all required elements safely.

Question 40

Do I need to repeat the full course if I return?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All CBT elements must be completed each time you take the course.

Previous attendance does not remove the requirement to complete the full course again.

Question 41

Do I pay again if I fail?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you do not complete CBT successfully, you must rebook and pay again.

The full course fee applies to the new booking unless a separate arrangement has been made.

Question 42

Is a provisional licence OK?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A UK provisional licence is accepted for CBT.

You do not need a full driving licence to complete the course.

Question 43

Do I need a theory test first?

Accepted Answer

No. A theory test is not required before CBT.

You will need a motorcycle theory test later if you want to progress to a full motorcycle licence.

Question 44

Do I need to know the rules of the road?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You should be familiar with the Highway Code and basic road rules before attending.

You will need to show awareness of traffic signs and road behaviour during the course.

Question 45

What if I can't attend?

Accepted Answer

Cancellations more than 10 days before course - free. Less than 10 days - full rebooking required, if we can't sell your spot. (10% cancellation fee applies)

Question 46

Can I book more than one person?

Accepted Answer

Yes - group bookings via phone. Online booking is one per person.

Question 47

Do I need to bring my own bike?

Accepted Answer

No - we provide a training bike at no additional cost.

Question 48

Can I bring a photo of my licence?

Accepted Answer

No - original licences and documents only, per DVSA requirements.

Question 49

Can I buy a gift voucher for CBT or other motorcycle training?

Accepted Answer

Yes - you can buy a gift voucher to put towards motorcycle training with LMT. Visit https://www.londonmotorcycletraining.co.uk/booking/gift-voucher to purchase one.

Question 50

What is DAS training?

Accepted Answer

DAS stands for Direct Access Scheme. It allows eligible riders to fast-track to a full, unrestricted Category A motorcycle licence.

Question 51

How old do I need to be?

Accepted Answer

You must be at least 24 years old, or 19+ if you have held an A2 licence for two years.

Question 52

What licences do I need before starting?

Accepted Answer

You must hold a valid UK driving licence, either full or provisional, with a valid CBT certificate.

Question 53

Do I need a CBT first?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You must hold a valid Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) certificate before training on a larger bike, and it must remain valid until you complete Module 2.

Question 54

Do I need a theory test?

Accepted Answer

You can start training before passing the Motorcycle Theory Test, but you must pass it before taking your practical tests. Your theory test certificate must remain valid until you complete Module 2, even if you already hold a full car licence.

Question 55

How long does the course take?

Accepted Answer

Most riders usually need 3 to 5 training days, depending on their previous riding experience and current ability.

Question 56

What bike will I ride?

Accepted Answer

You will train and test on a motorcycle of at least 595cc with a minimum power output of 40kW. You must already be able to ride a manual bike unless you are specifically booking automatic training, as gear conversions are not completed during DAS training days.

Question 57

What is the Module 1 test?

Accepted Answer

Module 1 is a 15-minute off-road test that assesses slow-speed control, manoeuvres, hazard avoidance, and an emergency stop.

Question 58

What is the Module 2 test?

Accepted Answer

Module 2 is a 40-minute on-road test where the examiner follows you and assesses your safety, road positioning, observation, and traffic navigation.

Question 59

Can I take Mod 1 and Mod 2 on the same day?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but if you fail Module 1 you cannot take Module 2 that day and you will lose the Module 2 test fee.

Question 60

What gear do I need to bring?

Accepted Answer

You must wear sturdy leather boots that protect your ankles, heavy denim jeans, and a durable jacket.

Question 61

Are trainers allowed?

Accepted Answer

No. Trainers, canvas shoes, and tracksuits are strictly prohibited by examiners and training schools.

Question 62

Does the school provide gear?

Accepted Answer

Yes. LMT provide a helmet, gloves, motorcycle jacket, boots, and a high-visibility vest, but please check availability before booking.

Question 63

What documents must I bring?

Accepted Answer

You must bring your original photocard driving licence, your valid CBT certificate (DL196), and your Motorcycle Theory Test pass certificate for your tests. Photos or photocopies are not accepted.

Question 64

What happens if I fail Module 1?

Accepted Answer

You must wait at least 3 working days before you can retake the Module 1 test.

Frequently Asked Questions

CBT Questions

Helpful CBT guides

Automatic vs Manual CBT

What Happens During a CBT Course?

Full Training (DAS) Questions

Still have questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

CBT Questions

What is a CBT?

Is a CBT a test?

How old do I need to be?

What can I ride at 16?

What can I ride at 17 or older?

Can I ride a manual motorcycle at 16?

What licence do I need for CBT?

Can I do CBT with an EU licence?

What documents do I need for the CBT?

How long does the certificate last?

What happens when it expires?

Can I ride on motorways?

Can I carry passengers on CBT?

Do I need to display L-plates?

How much does a CBT cost in London?

How much does CBT cost?

What is included in the CBT price?

Can I book a CBT online?

How soon can I book a CBT in London?

Are weekend CBT courses available?

Which CBT centre is nearest to me?

What time does the CBT start?

Does the CBT take one full day?

How long does the CBT take?

What are the five elements?

How long is the road ride?

What is the instructor-to-pupil ratio?

Can I take a CBT without riding experience?

What if I don't complete all CBT elements?

Should I book an automatic or manual CBT?

Automatic vs manual CBT bike - does it matter?

Can I pay on the day?

What should I wear?

Are trainers allowed?

What gear do you provide?

Do I need my own helmet?

Do I need to know how to ride a bicycle?

Do we meet at the training centre?

Do I get my certificate on the day?

Do I need to repeat the full course if I return?

Do I pay again if I fail?

Is a provisional licence OK?

Do I need a theory test first?

Do I need to know the rules of the road?

What if I can't attend?

Can I book more than one person?

Do I need to bring my own bike?

Can I bring a photo of my licence?

Can I buy a gift voucher for CBT or other motorcycle training?

Helpful CBT guides

Automatic vs Manual CBT

What Happens During a CBT Course?

Full Training (DAS) Questions

What is DAS training?

How old do I need to be?

What licences do I need before starting?

Do I need a CBT first?

Do I need a theory test?

How long does the course take?

What bike will I ride?

What is the Module 1 test?

What is the Module 2 test?

Can I take Mod 1 and Mod 2 on the same day?

What gear do I need to bring?

Are trainers allowed?

Does the school provide gear?

What documents must I bring?

What happens if I fail Module 1?

What happens if I fail Module 2?

Will training happen in bad weather?

Who delivers DAS and CBT courses?

Can I buy a gift voucher for DAS training?

Still have questions?